A part of Super Netball’s First Nations Round, the Shepparton-based team made its way to John Cain Arena to face Annie’s Angels in a curtain-raiser for Melbourne Vixens’ round 12 clash against Sunshine Coast Lightning.
Taking to the court all young girls dream of getting to play on, the Rumba players showed their skill and flair, taking away a clinical 16-7 win to make the occasion even sweeter.
Rumbalara coach Magi Hollis said it was a special experience for all the girls.
“It was a really good opportunity and special day for our entire club, being part of Super Netball’s First Nations round,” Hollis said.
“The girls were definitely a bit nervous before the match being 15 and 16-year-old girls playing on such a big stage, but they did really well and looked like they had done it their whole lives.
“The whole team did themselves, the club and their community very proud, and were so grateful for the experience.”
Unsure what to expect from Annie’s Angels, Rumba showed why they are currently 7-1 in the Murray Netball League competition, dominating the match from start to finish.
“Looking at Annie’s Angels we thought it was going to be a really tough fight, but we established early on that we were the stronger team out there,” she said.
“They were fast and very talented and if there was a bit more time they would have caught up a bit more, but we were lucky to get our goals in and convert on our scoring opportunities to come away with the win.”
An experience the girls will without doubt cherish for a lifetime, Hollis said being able to strut their stuff on the big stage would help massively in their development as up-and-coming netballers.
“Something like this will help these girls immensely, especially if they want to take their netball further, which I think a lot of them can,” she said.
“A lot of our players were asking questions about what it takes to get to that top level and now they have experienced playing on John Cain Arena they will without doubt be itching to do it again.”
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