Swift Sophie Halpin still dreaming of going from bench to Super Netball playing roster

She’s the woman the NSW Swifts call in a crisis but few know either her face or her name.

Swifts defender Sophie Halpin took on former Australian midcourter Kim Green in round one.

• Super Netball guide: teams, fixture, history
• Heartbreak behind this netball masterclass
• Giant coup as Caitlin Bassett changes colours

She’s the woman the NSW Swifts call in a crisis but few know either her face or her name.

And while it’s been about a year between Super Netball games for Sophie Halpin, the defender has no intention of giving up her dream of being in the regular starting seven.

SWIFTS FLY HIGH: Folau hit court, Swifts hit new heights

KIWI STAR: Maria Folau tipped to soar

As a Swifts training partner for the third straight season, Halpin is the hardest working netballer rarely to get a shot at playing.

Sophie Halpin was called into the team as an injury replacement.

MILESTONE: Kim Green’s extraordinary career

GIANT LOSS: Vixens spoil legend’s party

In fact it’s only misfortune to a teammate which earns the 25-year-old a call-up.

“It’s a double-edged sword. It sucks to get a call-up because of an injury because I love the girls. No one wants to be on the court because a mate is hurt,’’ she said.

“But at the same time you have to make the most of every opportunity given to you.’’

Aiding Halpin’s goal of cracking the playing roster was her performance in the opening round of Super Netball where the Swifts beat the Giants by seven goals.

Halpin was elevated from the training squad to replace defender Kate Eddy, who sustained a groin injury in a practice match a week earlier, and produced a memorable performance.

Sophie Halpin and Sarah Klau celebrate after their round one win over the Giants.

FRESH START: Why Abbey McCulloch is nervous

BRUISING: Players bracing for rough and tumble

“Sunday was the fourth time I have played in three years and it worked out about a year since my last game,’’ said Halpin, who works fulltime in finance.

“It is hard but for me I just love the sport with my heart and soul. I’m very competitive. I have been my whole life. So I say, what’s another year, what’s another year. I feel close.

“I just keep hoping this year will be it. Sport is a roller coasts journey so I feel if I put in the hard years I will pull it off eventually.

“And getting the chance to play on the weekend made it all worth it.’’