The Spirit is united, rivalries cast aside

RIVALS will unite when Tassie Spirit hosts the Vic Fury, Territory Storm and Western Sting in a gruelling Australian Netball League triple-header this weekend.

Our best state league netballers will cast aside local rivalries and work together to take on what coach Jon Fletcher is calling their ultimate challenge.

“Three games in three days is a tough schedule,” he said.

Karana Flames defender Eliza Siely says past rivalries have been replaced with mutual respect.

“Everyone wants to play their best and learn from each other,” she said.

Kingston Blues defender Emily Handley agrees.

“I’ve known a lot of the girls for years, and it’s been interesting to see how each of us brings a different approach to the team,” she said.

Shooter Sophie Gunn, from AYC-Friends Arrows, isn’t worried about sharing tactics.

“I will tell her [Siely] things that as a shooter I don’t like,” said Gunn.

“I’m not thinking that in the future she’ll be my opposition again because we’re doing whatever it takes to get the win.”

Fellow shooter Amelia Fazackerley, from Cripps Waratah, appreciates the advice from experienced defenders such as Siely and Handley. “I’m relieved to be playing with them, not against them, and it’s great having Siely in the team because she’s so experienced,” she said.

First up for the Spirit will be reigning premier the Fury, led by shooter Emma Ryde who, at 197cm, will be hard to stop.

Then it’s the winless Storm and finally the undefeated Sting. All games will be played at the Hobart Netball and Sports Centre.