“Woke up to a beautiful, sunny Hamilton on GAME DAY! Facing the Silver Ferns tonight, we were off to the Claudelands Arena this morning for our final preparations. The team was in full mode focus since warm-up and continued throughout the training session to show the dedication and passion we will play with in this intense match against the world’s number two side.
Finishing on a high note, we stretched down, got into the mini busses and returned to the hotel. Being International Eat-Outside Day, the team decided to have a relaxing lunch together on the patio, listening to music and just taking in the Vitamin D from the sun. A lovely lunch was served and it was time to head to the rooms for each player to start their game day rituals.
On our way to the courts, everyone was quiet; headphones on their ears, thinking about the job they’re going to have to do on court and starting to get into the zone. Getting excited in the locker rooms, we huddle up together in our little circle, said our prayer and got the last hug in before going out on court.
After the tough and physical match, we lost with 19 goals, an improvement since last year’s test series against them before the Netball World Cup. Now it’s time for recovery, flying back to Australia the next day and start fresh again on how to take on the Roses on Sunday!
Also lastly, a happy birthday to our GK as well as up-and-coming GD Jeanie Steyn! Hope you had a wonderful day and an even more wonderful game. For now, a good night’s rest is in order…”
by Karla Mostert
