Australian 21/U team best ever?

Friday, June 15, 2007

By Netball Australia

The depth of Australia’s development programs has been reaffirmed
with the selection of one of the strongest-ever National 21 & Under teams to represent our country.

Eight rising stars in the squad of 14 will make their debut in a series of closed practice matches against England and Jamaica’s Open teams in July.

National 21 & Under coach, Lisa Alexander said trimming the squad to 14 was extremely difficult.

“The level of ability, fitness, strength and tactical nous has improved significantly from last year and I am thrilled with the improvement,” Alexander said.

“The key for these players getting selected was their consistency in applying skills in high pressure situations and being able to read the play and make correct decisions.”

Among the new faces is NSW shooter, Alexandra Harding, who prior to 2006 had never been selected in a national program.

“For a player like Alex Harding to be selected after making her first national squad last year is fantastic and a testament to her work ethnic and commitment,” Alexander said.

Half of the team comes from Victoria, which Alexander sees as a positive reflection on the strength of the netball development programs in that state.

“They are doing the right things in Victoria, they are very innovative with their programs and meet all best practices,” Alexander said.

The selected team of 14 is:
Sarah Ashmore (VIC)
Madison Browne (VIC)
Johannah Curran (VIC)
Susan Fuhrmann (WA)
Laura Geitz (QLD)
Kimberlee Green (NSW)
Renae Hallinan (VIC)
Alexandra Harding (NSW)
Janelle Lawson (WA)
Sharni Layton (VIC)
Samantha May (NSW)
Julie Prendergast (VIC)
Leah Shoard (NSW)
Caitlin Thwaites (VIC)