Creator of Constellation Cup encourages Diamonds

Friday, October 28, 2011

The creator of the Constellation Cup, Michael Wilson, has urged the Diamonds to keep the trans-Tasman trophy on our shores when Australia hosts New Zealand at Hisense Arena to determine the winner on Sunday.

With the series level 2-2 following Wednesday’s seven-goal victory in Adelaide, the 2011 Holden Netball Test Series concludes in Melbourne with the winner to claim the series and the Constellation Cup title.

“It’s a privilege and honour to be involved with the Constellation Cup and I hope to hell that you keep here (in Australia),” Wilson said laughing with the team.

Very fittingly, the Diamonds visited Netball Australia’s newest partner, Michael Wilson Diamond Jewellers in Eltham, on Thursday evening for a function to learn more about the creation of the trophy.

The stunning silver cup, encrusted with diamonds, and its accompanying display case of black maire, were crafted by artists on both sides of the Tasman and brought to life by Wilson and his team at the Eltham gallery.

“I regard the commission to design and make the Constellation Cup as a milestone in my career as a goal and silversmith,” Wilson said.

“It’s a very substantial trophy; very few trophies are made of solid silver and I don’t know of any other that has 101 diamonds.”

“It was a wonderful challenge.”

The Diamonds will be out to defend the trans-Tasman title on Sunday afternoon after claiming the inaugural Constellation Cup series last year.

The concept and creation of the Constellation Cup has been supported by the Governors General of both nations to recognise trans-Tasman netball between the two countries.

The Constellation Cup will be awarded immediately following Sunday’s Test at Hisense Arena to be broadcast live on Channel TEN and online via Telstra BigPond Sport.