Jenner’s dazzling Diamonds invite
TOWNSVILLE netball product Kimberley Jenner says being invited to train with the Diamonds has given her a taste of what’s required to take the next step as she prepares for her international debut.
The 20- year- old defender will wear the Australian dress for the first time in next weekend’s Fast5 Netball World Series in Melbourne.
It comes after she was one of two youngsters last month invited to help the Diamonds prepare for the Quad Series and Constellation Cup.
The Diamonds have blooded several young stars this year and Jenner’s invite is a sign she’s on the radar of national coach Lisa Alexander.
Jenner enjoyed far more court time with the Queensland Firebirds in this year’s Suncorp Super Netball season, prompting teammate and childhood idol Laura Geitz to label her the “next big thing” during a recent visit to Townsville.
“I was super surprised to get the phone call ( to train with the Diamonds), but it was awesome to get the experience and see what that environment is like,” Jenner said.
“I was definitely a bit nervous, everything was up a notch to what I’m used to but it’s great to get a taste of what the next stage up looks like.”
Jenner’s influence on the Firebirds is likely to increase next season following the retirement of legendary defender Geitz.
She said the Australian selectors’ willingness to blood young players had given her hope she would break into the Diamonds set- up.
“There’s so many young players in the squad and it’s exciting times for the Diamonds, it would be awesome to one day be a part of that,” Jenner said.
“It was great to have G ( Geitz) back and to learn things from her throughout the year, she’s such a great motivator and teacher.
“I got the chance to put what we were doing at training into practice on the court, which was great.”
Jenner said the introduction of the new Sapphire Series, which will feature a Northern Rays team comprising players from Townsville, Cairns and Mackay, will allow northern talent to stay at home and develop.
“I reckon it’s such a great opportunity for them. It’s good to have that competition against the girls down south, and playing at that higher level regularly is so important to help develop their games,” Jenner said.
Jenner’s next goal is to prove herself as an international star of the future in Melbourne next year.
“It ( Fast5 netball) is a lot quicker and a lot more running, but it's good fun,” she said. “I haven’t quite played at level yet, but I’m definitely looking forward to doing it.”