The 2022 National Netball Championships kick off in Hobart on Tuesday 19 April, with finals set to be held on Saturday and Sunday. The round robin will see teams from each state and territory face off for the national title in 19/Under and 17/Under divisions.
Following the event’s cancellation in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID pandemic, there is plenty of excitement brewing for this year’s event with Geelong product and Victorian 19/Under squad member, Zara Walters eager to get out on court.
With the countdown on, Walters recounted the moment she was selected in the 19/Under squad and what an honour it was to be recognised for her netball prowess.
“It was very exciting. It’s a very big honour to play for Victoria and I was so excited when I found out that I was playing for my state,” she said.
But the accolades didn’t stop there, the 18-year-old later named in the leadership squad which she considers an even bigger achievement.
“It’s such an honour to be in the Vic team, let alone to lead it and to know that your teammates have that faith in you. It was just so exciting to be included in the leadership team.”
One moment that will stick with Walters was the dress presentation, with Melbourne Vixens co-captain and Australian Diamonds captain, Liz Watson handing Walters her Victorian dress.
“It was a pretty special moment, obviously I think it’s fair to say that everyone looks up to Liz. She told us her story and it was awesome to see where it can take you and what’s ahead.”
Heading into the Championships with a relatively fresh squad, Walters is hoping that her side can showcase their versatility and put out strong four-quarter performances to catch the other states off guard.
“We’re a very new team so just being able to go out there against a tough opposition and show what we can really do over there will be very exciting.”
Walters highlighted the influence head coach Wendy Jacobsen has had on her individual game, and on the whole squad in the leadup to the Championships.
“We had a really good simulation weekend and we came together to work on some things as a team. Just being under the guidance of Wendy who brings so much knowledge and professionalism is great,” she said.
“She was my coach last year for Vic and she has taught me a lot of things which is awesome.”
When asked if her team was heading to Tasmania intent on playing a particular brand of netball, the answer was plain and simple for Walters – resilient.
“Resilient and hard one-on-one defence. We just want to go out there and play for each other,” she said.
Set to come up against each state throughout the Championships, the young star hinted at New South Wales being the one she’s most eager to compete against.
“New South Wales and South Australia will be the toughest competition and it will be awesome to play against them and see what we can do,” she said.
The 2022 National Netball Championships will take place from April 19-24 at the Hobart Netball and Sports Centre.
The annual tournament is an important step in the Victorian pathway, providing emerging talent with the opportunity to represent their state and compete for the national title in 17/Under and 19/Under age groups.
Every game of the Championships will be available to watch live and free via Kayo Freebies.
2022 fixture:
View the 17/Under fixture
View the 19/Under fixture
