The fire still burns
Tippett says champs must lift as Aussie netball enters a new era
GRETEL Tippett says the Queensland Firebirds’ attack needs to take their game to even greater heights next season.
Tippett was heavily targeted by rival clubs in the off-season but was never tempted to leave Queensland and returns to the Firebirds line-up for the new national netball league.
She is one of four starters to recommit to the back-to-back champions along with fellow shooter Romelda Aiken, wing attack Caitlyn Nevins and wing defence Gabi Simpson.
With the attacking end of the court remaining intact and a new-look defensive end settling in, athletic goal attack Tippett said the Firebirds needed to keep the scoreboard ticking over.
Aiken and Tippett have been a dynamic duo for the past two seasons with their revolutionary methods but know they will carry a heavier load in 2017.
“We have to change, im- prove and evolve every year and there’s no doubt that next season we need to look after the ball a lot more,’’ Tippett said.
“It will definitely be a focus to keep the turnovers down and keep the goals coming.
“It’s all about making the right decisions at the right times and making the most of our opportunities.
“It’s great that we won’t skip a beat at the attack end and I get to keep playing with Romelda which is a dream come true.
“Every time I play or train with Romelda I feel like I learn something and get better.’’
Tippett said the main factor that kept her at the Firebirds was the desire to build on the legacy left by Laura Geitz (pregnant) and Clare McMeniman (retired).
“I never wanted to leave. I wanted to add to what Geitzy and Clare have created for us girls and carry it on. I love wearing the purple dress. It’s a special team,’’ she said.
Tippett’s close friend, housemate and business part- ner Kim Ravaillion left the Firebirds for the star-studded Collingwood side but she insisted life went on, on and off the court.
“I’m excited for Kim and the journey she has embarked on. I’m sure there will be lots of trips down to Melbourne to visit her,’’ she said.
“Mahalia Cassidy (likely starting centre to replace Ravaillion) showed at training last season how special she is. Not many people have seen her play at this level but she will be great for us.’’