Geitz retires from international netball

Former Australian captain Laura Geitz has announced her retirement from international netball, a decade after her debut with the Diamonds.

The two-time world champion and Queensland Firebirds goalkeeper considered retirement after having her son, Barney, in 2017, and said she had to adjust to motherhood before making her comeback at the Commonwealth Games this year.

‘‘I’m really looking forward to what the next chapter in my life entails, with more time to focus on work opportunities and my family,’’ Geitz said yesterday.

She calls an end to her international career after debuting in 2008 and making 71 appearances for the national team.

Geitz said the timing right.

‘‘I have not only had the great honour of representing Australia was in the sport I love, but to get the chance to captain the Diamonds to gold at the Commonwealth Games in 2014 is a moment I will cherish for the rest of my life.

‘‘These 10 years have flown by and been an amazing journey. The team’s success on court is only one part of what netball has given me. The experience and people I have met and worked with along the way have shaped who I am today,’’ she said.

Geitz has long been a nemesis for the Silver Ferns. In her first stint as Australian captain she led them to victory in the Constellation Cup in 2013. She was also heavily involved in Australia’s Netball World Cup victories, in 2011 and 2015, the second time as captain, as well as the 2014 Commonwealth Games win.

Geitz said the chance to compete at a home Commonwealth Games this year was a real carrot to get back on the court once last time for the Diamonds.

- AAP, Stuff