On August 1 three Netball teams left MacKillop at 5:30am, grateful for a warm bus, and were soon singing along to a great playlist provided by the Year 12s. Three hours later, a bus of soon-to-be Australian Diamonds were ready to take on their opponents in the state elimination finals of the High Schools Netball Cup.
“With our heads still high after a one point loss to Ellenbrook, the Year 8s soon faced the rain and wind as well as Mandurah Catholic College in our second game. The goals were going nowhere near the net, but we finished only two points behind and more determined than ever to have a win. But Willeton didn’t provide us with that either, beating us 16-9. Our last game against Rockingham was another loss at 12-8, and by then we were relieved to get back on the warm bus home. Even though we didn’t win a game and are nowhere near ready to represent the country, we all had a fantastic day and can’t wait to reappear at the Commonwealth Games...” Kaitlyn Tucker and Nikki Smith
“The Year 10 girls went into the competition smiling and played their hearts out in the worst conditions. They were sliding and slipping everywhere in the wind and rain. The weather made it difficult for the shooters, too, but they got most of them in, making it to semi finals against Bunbury Cathedral Grammar. The girls played their best in the first half to draw at half time, but then the wind and pouring rain once again made it impossible to see, run and shoot. They put up a good fight and, despite going down by six goals, the girls still had smiles on their faces when leaving.” Lily Fullarton and India Strong
“After a tight vote on whether or not to wear skirts, the Senior Boys team made their way onto the court. They worked well together and stayed calm, despite playing against schools who train weekly all season. Giving their best effort every game, the guys were rewarded with three wins from three and a spot in the finals. Pitted against a much bigger Melville side, the team struggled to pin down a 7’4” shooter, who took them out to a 9-1 lead at the end of the first half. MacKillop rallied and finished the game strong, going down by only four goals in some very tough and unforgiving conditions.” Shay Thackrah
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