QUT Wildcats spearhead Hulita Vere reflects on life as a mum and leading her team to the title

QUT Wildcats mighty mum Hulita Vere (nee Haukinima) has given an insight into the world of being an elite athlete and mother as she reflects on arguably the most satisfying period of her career.

QUT Wildcats spearhead Hulita Vere (nee Haukinima) has given an insight into the world of being an elite athlete and mother as she reflects on arguably the most satisfying period of her career.

Vere was named MVP in the inaugural season of the Sapphire Series as she led QUT Wildcats out of the wilderness and to grand final glory in October.

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Vere had been to the top of the tree as a member of the title winning Firebirds squad three seasons ago, but found the Sapphire Series victory equally satisfying.

Wildcats netball captain Hulita Vere. Picture: Richard Walker

“This achievement was just as satisfying,’’ Vere said. “To win a championship with the Firebirds was incredible, but that being my first year they had me on the bench for most of the season, even though I was just stoked to even be apart of the Firebirds family.

“But to play every game this season with the Wildcats and be able to captain the side makes things a whole lot more rewarding.

“I am just so grateful to have been a part of the firebirds and I absolutely love being a Wildcat.’’

Vere, whose career paused for the birth of her two children, said being an athlete and mum was challenging. “But the rewards are twice as good.’’

“Mixing the both is all about time management, something I’ve learnt a lot about.

“With only a few hours sleep each night and busy days running after the two boys, it defiantly can be tiring.

“But when I get to training, gym or a game I completely switch off mum mode and go into grind mode.

“Some days I don’t know how I do it with the lack of sleep I get, but when you're a mum and an athlete you just do what you have to do to get it done.

“I just try every day to be the best mum and athlete I can be. I’ve always wanted to play netball at a high level and have a family so to have both at this age is a dream come true for me and something I am truly grateful for.’’