At the midway point of the 2021 season, we cast our eye over the players in each position and hear from Vicki Wilson on what to expect in the second half.
Steph Wood
Steph Wood is a natural born leader, so the elevation to Vice Captain in 2021 was no surprise. Being the general of the attack end has continued to be a feature to the 29-year-old’s game. Wood has played a largely selfless game this season, trusting in fellow shooter Cara Koenen to make the shots. Instead it is her smarts and effectiveness out in front that has turned heads. Head Coach Kylee Byrne has also utilised the shooter in Wing Attack more this year and that combination has been largely effective.
Vicki Wilson: “Steph is displaying some career best form at the moment. She has been a tireless worker for our forward line. At times it’s as though she has the ball on a string, with the variety of tempo and placement.”
Cara Koenen
The Diamonds shooter hasn’t missed a beat this season and continues to develop her game and build in confidence. Ranked 4th in the league for total goals before the split round, Koenen’s work on the baseline is second to none. Another solid pre-season under her belt has also seen her able to withstand the physicality of opposition defenders better than in previous seasons.
Vicki Wilson: “Cara is showing us that she is equally comfortable at both GS and GA. Her game continues to evolve and she is increasingly menacing in defence. She also has grown her strong aerial game this season.”
Peace Proscovia
At her best Proscovia is an incredibly strong target under the post that can change games. That ability and strength was on show in Lightning’s final game before the bye against GIANTS Netball and will bolster her confidence in the second half. The 31-year-old has incredible reach and provides a real point of difference to Lightning’s shooting circle, whether working in tandem with Koenen or Wood.
Vicki Wilson: “Peace’s strong body positioning is providing a solid target inside the circle for us. She is really calm and unfazed by what her opposition does, which is a real strength of hers.”
Binnian Hunt
Hunt is known as a shooter but in 2021 Lightning are also working to develop her skills at Wing Attack. That versatility will only help her development. Hunt possesses size and strength to compete physically with her opponents. Her smarts also compliment her style, whether working inside the circle or in helping transition the ball into attack. She has been a real impact player for the team this season and will be eager to gain more game time while competing in Lightning’s squad of 10 as an injury replacement player.
Vicki Wilson: “Binni has really taken her opportunities this year. She is elusive on her attacking cuts and is prepared to take on the defensive body. Binni is also a calming influence when feeding into the goalers.”
