Fever Prepare for Season Opener

It’s the first ANZ Championship match for Head Coach Norma Plummer, but the opening match against Canterbury Tactix next Monday has been a long time coming.

“Considering some of the girls started pre-pre-season back in November, it’s hard to imagine being any more prepared for this game than we are now.”

West Coast Fever has seen a massive change in personnel since the end of the 2011 campaign, and Plummer is keen to promote the potential in her squad.

“With Coxy (Captain – Catherine Cox) leading the girls both on and off the court, and young players like Ash Brazill and Verity Simmons keeping everyone on their toes with their energy levels – I feel that we have a great balance to work with going into this season”

“I was delighted with the pre-season tournament in New Zealand. The girls learnt that they have no reason to be scared of any opposition in this competition, including when the Kiwi’s throw on the zone or we come across a tall shooting circle.”

And talking of tall shooting circles – not many teams can rival as formidable shooting partnership as veteran Cath Cox and Diamonds sweetheart Caitlin Bassett (WAIS), both of whom tower over many of the competitions defence and will surely make life difficult for the opposition.

“Cath and Caitlin work extremely well together, but let’s not forget our depth in the shooting end – Aus 21U All Star Sarah East (WAIS) and Nikala Smith who already has the experience of playing at this level, definitely round out a dominant attacking quartet.”

The whole Fever side has been installed with the mentality that there is no starting 7 – every player should take the responsibility of playing and winning matches on their shoulders.

There is no hierarchy, there is no expectation – there is only ‘tough love’ and the desire to live up to all of the expectations placed on them by peers and fans alike.

–Netball WA