In 2017, UTS Randwick Sparks dominated both the Opens and U23s Premier League divisions. The journey has been up and down since then, but this year has seen a great improvement from both teams, with the Opens sitting third in their conference, and the U23s leading theirs.
Just like their competitors, COVID-19 resulted in a world of sudden readjustment and rapid problem solving in order to prepare for the delayed 2020 season. Zoom once again became everyone’s best friend, especially for Sparks' Head Coaches Sharyn Hill, Alison Tucker and Karen Stonnil.
“During lockdown, we had to push out all coaching via satellite," the trio says. "Zoom allowed our players to continue strength and conditioning and skills sessions, and we developed off court unit roles with specialist guest speakers.”
For the coaching staff, being able to play this season despite a year of unprecedented situations has been a huge privilege, and they applaud their players for their commitment and resilience.
“We are proudest of the way our players have handled themselves in their transition from lockdown to being back on the court full time. Mentally and physically it had challenges, but our players stayed motivated with the support from our staff. We are proud to see how our players have connected and care for each other as friends before netballers.”
A highlight for the Sparks 2020 season has been both teams taking out wins against longstanding rivals GWS Fury. After a narrow loss to Fury in Round 1, the Opens Sparks saw victory the second time around, taking the game by 11. The U23s on the other hand have defeated GWS both times this season. A much different story to last year, where both Sparks teams failed to claim a win against Fury.
“GWS Fury have a great program and always produce quality sides each season. There are great match ups across all positions on court making it the tight battle that everyone loves to watch.”
Fury hasn’t been the only team to worry about this season for the U23s, with South Coast Blaze also coming into the picture and quickly dominating. Despite leading their conference, Blaze suffered their first loss of the season to the Sparks U23s.
“South Coast entered the Premier League competition in such an impressive way this season. They are a fantastic side with talented young players, which was always going to make for an exciting and challenging game. We needed to remain calm and stick to our game and trust in our preparation. We know that if we play them again, it will be another tough game.”
The Sparks Opens will just miss out on finals this year, but the U23s, with eight wins up their sleeve, and the second highest points in their entire division, will be quite the force to come up against.
