TESTING TIMES FOR ALL

QYou have come into the role at an interesting time with the Sapphire Series and Ruby Series starting this year. What challenges does that bring with two brand new competitions?

AAs I mentioned earlier, understanding where the new Sapphire and Ruby series fit in the State’s high performance pathways and then the most obvious challenge is our location and the distance players need to travel. Whether players get selected in the Northern Rays, or other clubs, to play in the Sapphire Series or they choose to stay here and play for the Marlins in the Ruby Series, the task then becomes making sure they continue to develop their game.

QHow do you see the Cairnsbased netballers fitting into the Northern Rays program with all the travel involved to Townsville?

AGiven the recent weather I would say it would be extremely challenging but in terms of fitting in, I am confident any of our Marlins players from last year would compete well at the Northern Rays. Speaking from experience it is tough to travel that distance a couple of times a week for training but I know the Northern Rays coaching staff are putting together a very good plan taking into consideration the players’ welfare which will include satellite coaches working alongside the players in their home towns.

QIs a new coach for the Marlins close to being appointed following Winnie Whately (pictured) stepping down?

AWith the Ruby Series not scheduled to start until the middle of July, we will be advertising for EOI’s for the coaching and team management positions towards the end of February.