Commonwealth Youth Games Australian teen netballers to watch in Trinidad and Tobago
Expectations are high for Australia as they take to the netball court, and despite a new format, officials are backing our girls in. Meet the 10 young stars lining up at the Commonwealth Youth Games.
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Expectations are always high when it comes to netball and Australia, but the Fast5 format will be the big challenge to adjust to.
Manager Anita Keelan said they were hopeful of a positive outcome for the first instalment of netball at the event, particularly with the strength of the squad they’re taking over.
“We’re still learning the rules and looking at this as a big opportunity for the girls to compete at the international level,” Keelan said.
“We want them to experience what it’s like and how they come together given the short lead in. There’ll be leanings on how they cope, and we want to expose them to that before the World Youth Titles in 2025.
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“There’s always strong expectations when it comes to Australia and netball, but we’re respectful of the fact they’ll be learning on the run. We back our girls’ athleticism and giving them every chance of success.”
Meet the 10 Australians heading to Trinbago to represent the green and gold in Fast5 Netball:
Nicola Barge (New South Wales)
The Sutherland product is turning 17 and brings a great deal of athleticism at the GS/GA positions. Sitting at 180cm, officials are hoping to continue to develop her game in both positions over the tournament.
Georgie Cleaver (Western Australia)
A top-age WA who is a versatile player. Can play the GA and has a long-range shot. Without wings in this format they’re looking to develop her mid-court game. Her style of play and engine service the team well, and she brings that leadership too.
Jada Delaney (Queensland)
Part of the Queensland U17s side that claimed the national title. Lives on the Sunshine Coast and her mum Jacqui played for Australia. Jada is a GK defender with a great workrate and a brave player who attacks the ball.
Sasha-May Flegler (Queensland)
Hails from Tully in the far north of Queensland. Is only 15 turning 16, sits at 180cm and is a raw talent at C. Hasn’t had much exposure in terms of national pathways. They’re excited by her athleticism and how she’ll go at this competitive level.
Gemma Hutchings (Queensland)
From Brisbane and a tall GD at over six-foot tall. Played in the Pan Pac Games at just 15 and has shown growth over recent years. Moves well on her feet, and along with defensive partner Jada, has a really bright future ahead.
Mia Lavis (Victoria)
From regional Victoria in Wodonga, a GA/GS who is a fresh athlete on the scene. Made a huge impression at the nationals to earn her spot. Has an ability to shoot from all over the place, create space and use her foot speed.
Monika ‘Otai (New South Wales)
The Kingsgrove GS is one of the older girls in the team who is turning 18. Has a good long shot and is calm under pressure. They see a great potential with her who can use her leadership and improve to play GA as well.
Tabitha Packer (South Australia)
The GS from Adelaide was nationally identified in the Pan Pacific Games. Plays C in the AS Premier League but is versatile at GD for nationals. Reads the play very well and provides leadership on the court.
Lucy Voyvodic (South Australia)
A C from Adelaide who has a rowing background so brings a big engine to the team. Boasts athleticism and an ability to defend well, Lucy connects with the shooters and they’re keen for her to get that international exposure.
Clara Wigley (Western Australia)
One of the youngest players in the squad who is turning 16 later this year. Plays the C position and had a great Australian Schoolgirls campaign last year. An exciting national prospect who has found her best form at the right time.
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