After spending 67 days on the road, away from loved ones back in Sydney, the NSW Swifts celebrated their second Suncorp Super Netball title with victory over rivals GWS in the grand final in Queensland.
The Swifts defeated the fast-finishing Giants 63-59 in a thrilling contest that was staged in Brisbane amid the COVID-19 outbreak in their home state.
https://twitter.com/SuperNetball/status/1431513145806315521
Relief and pride were the overwhelming emotions expressed by players from both sides as the grand final marked the end of a lengthy period away from home as their families were stuck in lockdown.
Some players brought their babies and partners with them in Queensland, but for most, it was just them and their teammates.
After over nine weeks away the win was especially meaningful for the Swifts, who sealed their seventh premiership crown.
“I think for the first time in my life I’m speechless,” Swifts captain Maddy Proud told Nine after the win.
“It was such an incredible game. Our girls – how bloody good!
“It’s been so overwhelming the messages from back home,” Proud said.
“They say this is getting them through lockdown.”
Swifts goal defence Maddy Turner was named the player of the match – a feat netball great Liz Ellis was ecstatic to see.
https://twitter.com/LizzyLegsEllis/status/1431514935750627328
GWS skipper Jo Harten was mainly upset the team couldn’t get a victory for netball legend Julie Fitzgerald, coaching in her 45th final against her old team.
“I have the utmost respect for the woman. To play for Jules is an absolute honour. I’m sorry we couldn’t do it for her today,” Harten said.
“It is bitterly disappointing not to come away with the win today.
“Not our day today but watch out for the future because its definitely bright orange.”