Sisters swap Tall Ferns captaincy
The Tall Ferns’ captaincy will move from one sister to another ahead of their Olympic qualifying tournament.
At 24, Kalani Purcell will become one of the youngest permanent captains of the national women’s side when it faces China, South Korea and the Philippines in Auckland from next week.
It will be even more special given her sister, Natalie Taylor, will be the one handing over the leadership reins.
Purcell captained a very young team that won the William Jones Cup in 2018, with further stints as captain this year’s William Jones Cup and Asia Cup, but the appointment has been only just been made permanent by coach Guy Molloy.
Purcell was more than a little surprised when given the captaincy.
‘‘I was shocked when
Guy announced that I was the captain at the Asia Cup. I thought my sister Nat would’ve been the captain because she has been before me. She has so much experience and does an amazing job.
‘‘Honestly, I was fighting back tears when Guy announced to the team that I was the captain. It is such an honour to be selected as the Tall Ferns captain.’’
Taylor said she was proud to be succeeded by her sister.
‘‘It’s no surprise to me that Kalani is the next captain of the Tall Ferns,’’ Taylor said.
‘‘Her leadership qualities were obvious from a young age. She’s assertive, hardworking, honest, passionate and empathetic. On top of that she’s a great athlete with a high basketball IQ.
‘‘I’m proud to have handed that mantle to my little sister and will continue to be a mentor figure as needed. I’m excited to watch her develop into the great leader of our national team that I know she’s capable of,’’ says Taylor.’’
Taylor remains in the squad and will provide a sounding board for her sister.
The Tall Ferns start their Olympic qualifying tournament against the Philippines next Thursday night.