Fighting back
Ararat is a traditional giant in Wimmera Netball Association but has had to climb its way back up the ladder and in the process has endured a tough season, winning 10 games but losing five.
The Weekly Advertiser asked A Grade coach Donna Spalding to provide insight into the Rats’ resurgence.
At what stage did you believe you had an A Grade team capable of playing finals? Spalding: “It was probably at the end of the first round of matches when I knew we could make a return back to the finals after a two-year absence. Our draw against Horsham in round seven gave the girls some self-belief.”
What do you consider have been the major hurdles in getting your team to the finals and how did you overcome them? Spalding: “Our second round didn’t go to plan. We had a chance to stay in the top three, however two of our key players were injured prior to the Warracknabeal match – centre Kate Bligh and goal shooter Tahnee Walker. This was a massive blow because both players are hard to replace. If we had won against Minyip-murtoa in round 15 we would have cemented third spot on the ladder.”
What does your team have to do to get into a position to play off in a grand final? Spalding: “My game plan has been consistent because it suits the players we have on the court. Potentially this team could go all the way if we have our strongest seven on the court doing their job.”
Who have been your key players, leaders, mentors and so on who have helped you get to the finals and what have they done that has impressed you as a coach? Spalding: “Our key players have included vice-captain Kate Bligh, mainly in the centre. She brings a wealth of experience to this team and her passing into the circle is exceptional. Krystal Fisher, goal defence, is an agile player who has excellent reach. She is a true competitor who has won games for us this season. Our captain Jess Williamson gives 100 percent every game and uses her speed well to make herself available down the court. Goal shooter Tahnee Walker is our most experienced player and worked well with first-year player and goal attack Tayla Borrelli. Both players have shot accurately this season.”
From structural, physical and psychological points of view, what are the strengths you can exploit in your team and what are the weaknesses you have to overcome? Spalding: “Our team is a blend of both experience and youth. The players show a sense of care for each other on and off the court. They know that there is no ‘I’ in team.”