Sport
4 July, 2023
Marlin Coast netballers stand out in NSW titles
COMPETING for the first time as a team, the under-17 Kenfrost Homes Marlins took all the applause and respect after snatching fourth place at the NSW state championships in Newcastle from June 10-12.
The Marlins, who competed in the under-17, division 4, took fourth place and held the highest goal average in the competition.
Marlin Coast Netball president Heather McLaren said coaches were very excited with the results.
“The coaches have praised the girls for the great effort they put in over the three days,” she said.
“The team performed very well, considering they had never played together as a team.
“All the players worked hard with home programs and skill sessions, which had put them in good stead for the competition on the weekend.”
Despite having to get used to much colder weather and a completely different playing style, the Marlins quickly adapted to the unfamiliar conditions.
“Players took time to adjust to what they knew best, and about game three, they hit their straps and by the end of day one, they had won five games and lost one,” Ms McLaren said.
“On Sunday (day two), they won all the games, but we knew all the challenging games were coming on Monday, which was a bit daunting.
“After 12 games, players were starting to feel fatigued, but to their credit, they were still able to win three of their last five games.”
Ms McLaren said the Marlins were gearing up for a busy rest of the year. “These were 10 girls representing 70 that make part of the academy. We can’t forget about them,” she said.
“In August, Vicki Wilson will come up again and run a clinic for the girls. We’ll also be running what we call a ‘Shooting for the Stars’ program for our girls, working on a separate clinic and taking them further.
“On October 8 and 9, we will have our netball festival where the girls will come together for their last clinic, and we will sign up the players who want to be a part of the 2024 academy.”
Ms McLaren congratulated the Marlins on their fantastic effort and resilience in the NSW state championships.
“They will be recognised in our netball festival.
“We want to show the younger girls who are 12-13 that these are their role models. This is what you can achieve,” she said.
