Darling Downs Panthers ready to roll with fresh faces leading Ruby Series charge

New faces and a fresh mindset have the Darling Downs Panthers ready for an explosive start to the Ruby Series this weekend.

Kaylin van Greunen. Photo: Nev Madsen

NETBALL: There’s a sense of anticipation in the air as the Darling Downs Panthers embark on a new season.

No looking back at a COVID year that they’d like to forget, but an eye forward to a talented young roster ready to live up to its potential.

The Panthers commence their Ruby Series campaign on their home court at Downlands College on Saturday, and coach Bec Stower said they were prepared for a big start to the year

“I feel like we’re ready to get started,” Stower said.

“Sometimes at the start of the season you can wonder if you’ve done enough, but I think we’ve had a really balanced start to the year and we’re ready to go.”

The Panthers pre-season involved taking their training out of Toowoomba, as well as involving a mind-coach, as they looked for a fresh approach to things.

It seemed to work a charm in their only trial match leading into the season proper, taking down the Sunshine Coast on the road.

Complications with the Brisbane lockdown prevented them from getting further court time against opposition, however Stower said their preparation should have them primed.

“It was a good hitout (against the Sunshine Coast),” she said.

“We had two of our state squad members out, but we got to take 13 players up and everyone got a good run.

“We tried out new combinations and rotations, and there was a lot of positive stuff to come out of the game.

“There was also the chance to review the footage and look at what we can do better.

“It was a really important win for their mindset. We really have to start crossing the line this year.

“There’s something that’s been holding us back from wins that we deserve to take, and that was a good win for their mindsets.”

While a strong local contingent will make up the bulk of the squad, the team has been able to welcome a few new players into the fold. for 2021.

“There are a few new faces which is always exciting, and I think we’ve got a good balance of experience and youth,” she said.

“We’ve picked up Harriet Nicholson who is a very experienced player and is strong in the defensive circle. She’s a good leader to the girls.

“With a couple of new young guns coming into the fold, it will be really interesting to see how they go.”

The Panthers season gets underway with a pair of games at home, and Stower said it is a golden opportunity to get off to a flyer.

“Statistically speaking we’re a 10-point better team at home,” she said.

“That could be attributed to not having to travel and the home crowd.

“The girls are so keen and eager, so they’re all factors towards producing a positive result to begin the season.”

The Darling Downs Panthers season commences against the Wildcats at 4pm on Saturday at Downlands College.