Netball dream worth wait

COWBOYS legend Brent Tate has praised his niece JamieLee Price’s unerring self belief for helping her realise her Diamonds dream, adamant she may have made her international debut sooner had she committed to New Zealand.

The centre- courter was a standout on debut in Australia’s 55- 44 loss to the Silver Ferns in Hamilton on Sunday.

The 22- year- old, ( pictured below), is the daughter of former Australia rugby league forward Steve Price and Tate’s sister, Jo. She honed her netball craft in New Zealand, when her father was captaining the Warriors, and played for Waikato- Bay of Plenty Magic aged just 17.

A l t h o u g h she represented the Kiwis at age group level, the goal was always to wear the green and gold dress.

A stellar two seasons for Greater Western Sydney Giants resulted in her Diamonds call- up, with Australia looking to inject fresh talent into the squad.

“She’s worked bloody hard to get there, we’re pretty pumped,” Tate said.

“There’s been stories written that she loved playing over there ( New Zealand), but her heart was with the green and gold.

“She backed herself to come over here and make the Diamonds. It’s good to see someone back their talent and finally get there.

“She probably would have had the chance to play for the Ferns a lot earlier than she’s had to wait to play for the Diamonds.”

Tate was a notoriously strong trainer during his playing days, and left no stone unturned as he overcame a some serious injuries, including four knee reconstructions.

It appears Jamie- Lee has inherited the same determination which made her dad and Tate Queensland Origin mainstays.

“There’s not too many people I’ve seen train harder than her, she’s really disciplined,” Tate said.

“Even over Christmas time, she likes to keep really fit, and you have to be to play that sport.”

The Diamonds will take a 2- 1 lead into the final Constellation Cup Test at Wellington on Thursday.