Sunshine Coast Lightning Captain Karla Pretorius is watching the Quad Series from the sidelines this year, as she prepares for impending motherhood in 2022. We get her thoughts on the series, her own SPAR Proteas performance and of course that of her Lightning teammates Steph Wood and Cara Koenen!
What has impressed you most overall in this Quad Series so far?
It feels like in the old days. International netball is happening and it is great that the Quad Series is able to take place! And we can play and watch great, international standard netball.
At Lightning we’re loving seeing both Steph Wood and Cara Koenen take to court – what do you think of both of their performances so far?
They are making the life of any defender coming up against them hard! 🤣
It’s great seeing them out on court, having known the hard work they have done off the court in preparation.
What do you expect from them in the 1 v 2 Final overnight between the Australian Diamonds and England Roses?
After what we saw this morning, I’m expecting another really close, hard fought game. It is totally feasible that it ends in another possible draw and I would tip Diamonds to then win in extra time.
Wood and Koenen are forming some strong combinations both together and with Australia’s other shooters – how do you rate that Aussie attack end?
Australia’s got options, which is always great for any team. The Aussie attack is one of the strongest and consistent out there.
How proud of you to see Steph as Vice Captain of the tournament and also named Captain in Game 2 against your own Proteas?
I am very Proud. And it is honestly so well deserved. It was only a matter of time for her to get awarded with that position.
You’re watching your team from home in South Africa – what do you think the Proteas need to do to get a win against NZ and take out Bronze overall?
Consistency over 4 quarters. And we need to capitalise on turnovers or any ball we get.
As an athlete and in your experience – does competing in such a quality competition then returning for the Suncorp Super Netball season motivate you even further and help elevate that benchmark in training and in games?
Definitely. As a athlete you want to stay competitive and you will always find new ways to be better. Returning from an international series definitely sparks that fire and I would expect nothing less from Steph and Cara.
