The WA Marie Little Shield team has returned from Sydney with their best ever finish in the competition, narrowly finishing fourth.
After recording three wins in their opening three games. including a big victory over Queensland, the squad managed to secure a maiden finals appearance against South Australia.
The team narrowly missed out on third place going down to South Australia by three goals 20-17.
Captain Anne-Marie Rich was ecstatic with the side’s first ever outing in the bronze medal game.
“I felt that as a team we did very, very well – better than we’ve ever done before,” Rich said.
“We worked really well as a team and continually improved our skills, both individually and as a group.
“The playing group was an amazing team of girls who were so committed to the success of both the team and our time together. It’s a positive, skillful group that we can continue to build on in future seasons.”
Rich also praised the coaching staff for their support of the team.
“We had awesome coaches and support staff with us,” she told Netball WA.
“They continually encouraged and supported us through our ups and downs – we cannot thank them enough.”
Head Coach Bev Gallager was beaming with pride at the team’s performance.
“It is such an honour to be the coach of such an amazing team,” Gallagher said.
“I am so proud of the girls and the brand of netball we have developed and played this year at nationals.
“There is no limit to what these athletes can achieve, I am really looking forward to next year.”
WA's Sarah Ahnstrom was awarded the Naomi Perry Spirit Award, which is awarded to a participant who has demonstrated great sportspersonship and enthusiasm towards the event. The recipient may be a team member, opponent, umpire or just general appreciation.
The Marie Little OAM Shield is an annual tournament that provides women with an intellectual disability the chance to compete at a national level.
