Sunshine Coast Lightning is preparing for it’s first competitive taste of netball in 2022, with back to back pre-season matches scheduled against GIANTS Netball and NSW Swifts in the coming days.
The opportunity to test new combinations against quality opposition is a pivotal next step in the Club’s pre-season program and Head Coach Kylee Byrne said players are champing at the bit.
“Pre-seasons always seem long and although we have really varied and changed it up this year, there is still nothing like just playing,” Byrne said.
“Within the team we are eager to see what our new faces can do and also work on connections with our returning players.
“It gives us a look at how our new combinations are forming and to see the potential of what is to come.
“It is early but it is also time to test ourselves and play some netball.”
A travelling team of 17 athletes will compete against their NSW opponents, with Lightning and GIANTS including an ANC contingent as well as a senior squad.
Steph Wood is currently in isolation after being deemed a close contact to COVID and will not travel to Sydney.
However Byrne believes this will provide even more opportunities for developing players and Training Partners to make a case for increased game time and eventual senior selection.
“Absolutely it fuels the fire and also makes every performance carry that little bit of extra pressure,” she said.
“In the end we need to see who is going to stand up under pressure so it’s a great trip to have at this time of the pre season.
“Steph Wood has been a declared close contact so won’t be on this trip so it gives others an opportunity to be seen.”
A live stream of the GIANTS Netball v Sunshine Coast Lightning match will be available via Facebook and Youtube, with the first centre pass to take place at 6pm AEST.
The subsequent match against NSW Swifts on Thursday will not be open to public, however, keep an eye on Lightning digital channels for further information and analysis.
