While the Origin Diamonds are representing Australia at the Netball World Cup, the Australian Fast5 Netball team is gearing up to go for gold at the Commonwealth Youth Games in Trinidad and Tobago.
The Games for athletes ages 14 to 18 will take place from Friday 4 August to Friday 11 August with the Fast5 Netball competition to run from Tuesday 8 August to Thursday 10 August.
Australia will go head-to-head with host nation Trinidad &Tobago as well as Botswana, Canada, England, St Vincent & Grenadines, Scotland and South Africa.
The Games will be the seventh iteration of the competition, however, marks the first time Fast5 Netball will be included.
Representing Australia will be Nicola Barge, Georgie Cleaver, Jada Delaney, Sasha-May Flegler, Gemma Hutchings, Mia Lavis, Monika ‘Otai, Tabitha Packer, Lucy Voyvodic and Clara Wigley.
The Australian team is made up of 19/U and 17/U squad members.Former Australian Fast5 team captain Elissa Kent will take on the head coach role supported by Anita Keelan as assistant coach and team manager as well as Kandice Goodwin the team’s physiotherapist.
Shooter Monika ‘Otai has been named as the Fast5 team's Australian captain.
"I was completely surprised when Elissa called and asked me to be captain, I didn’t expect it at all, I have no words to describe it but am excited for the opportunity to lead," 'Otai said.
She also expressed her excitement for the Games and to represent the nation.
"It is such a privilege and means so much to me, I am looking forward to building connections within the team, soaking it all up and playing against the other countries," she said.
'Otai is looking forward to leading the Fast5 team.'Otai's teammate Cleaver also expressed her excitement to represent Australia.
“I can’t wait to play for Australia’s Fast5 netball team with an incredible group of emerging athletes from across the country. My teammates and I will wear the green and gold with immense pride,” Cleaver said.
“This is an exciting development opportunity to gain exposure to international competition and experience a multi-sport environment, while creating memories and progressing as an athlete.”
To watch our Fast5 team in action head to the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee's YouTube channel here.
