TEAM BOND: Ava Walsh, Hannah Stanmore, Georgia Cole, Ebonnie Hopely, Kaylar Emery, Lily Boyd, Annie Banks, Laura Scott, Piper Hanrahan, Libby Dallimore Front-Jenny Boyd, Amanda Emery and Robyn Kenny. Pic courtesy of Forbes Netball.
The Forbes Netball Association Under 17 representative team recently competed at the NNSW Hart Senior State Titles in Bankstown before Sydney was impacted by COVID restrictions.
The team was one of the youngest teams playing in the age division, made up of players turning 15 and 16 in 2021, and playing against experienced players who were 17 years old, making the assignment a tough one for Forbes.
The majority of players were representing in the State Championships for the first time, with only two players having any representative experience from younger years.
“The team competed in regional training carnivals in Forbes, Bathurst, Parkes and Dubbo. Unfortunately injuries plagued the team in the later stage of preparation,” coach Robyn Kenny said.
“The first day of the State Championships was a learning curve for the team, with Play-ers Player for day one going to Ava Walsh”. Day two saw the girls lift their playing intensity, with some great netball, and nail biting results. Players Player for day two was Lily Boyd.
Day three was by far the best of the three days, as the team kept improving their positional play, timing and support of each other.
This resulted in another two wins and some very competitive games in the other three games. Players Player for day three was Georgia Cole.
“Overall, this was an outstanding experience from all the preparation and training, then a fantastic weekend for all the girls to build up their friendships. Their team spirit was always at a very high level,” Robyn said.
“The girls were a first-class example of what playing netball is all about – building friendships, sportsmanship, team spirit, taking on challenges and never giving up in any situation. Congratulations to all the players, you were a pleasure to coach”.