Kelsey ready to sparkle
A SPARKLING performance in the Super Netball finals has earned Geelong’s Kelsey Browne a Diamonds call-up.
The Sunshine Coast Lightning centre court star joins fellow Geelong star Emily Mannix in the 12-strong Diamonds squad to do battle in the Quad Series and Constellation Cup.
“We had our eye on her and it was extremely exciting to see her flourish during the SSN finals series ... we believe she is ready to make the step up and have an impact for the Diamonds,” head coach Lisa Alexander said of Browne.
Geelong’s Browne is the only new addition to a 17strong Diamonds squad announced in July, which includes nine players from the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games silver medal campaign.
Melbourne Vixens defender Mannix and Firebirds shooter Gretel Tippett will round out the new additions to the side.
Alexander is hopeful the injection of fresh faces will provide the right mix for the team as they prepare for the 2019 World Cup in Liverpool, England and says she is confident the side will hold up under pressure.
“We are focused on getting the combinations right ahead of the World Cup, so based on performances across the Quad Series we won’t hesitate to change the 12 if that is warranted,” she said.
The Quad Series runs from September 15 with the Constellation Cup from October 7. Diamonds Quad Series and Constellation Cup Team: Caitlin Bassett, April Brandley, Kelsey Browne, Courtney Bruce, Emily Mannix, Kimberly Ravaillion, Gabi Simpson, Caitlin Thwaites, Gretel Tippett, Liz Watson, Jo Weston, Stephanie Wood.