Photo: AAP Photos, Joel Carrett
After a long-awaited ten years, the Adelaide Thunderbirds have triumphed and claimed the national netball league grand final trophy. In an exhilarating extra-time battle at Melbourne’s John Cain Arena, the Thunderbirds emerged victorious with a narrow 60-59 victory over the NSW Swifts. This remarkable win marks their fifth title and their first grand final triumph in a decade.
The Thunderbirds’ road to victory was paved by their exceptional teamwork and the outstanding performance of English import Eleanor Cardwell, who has been hailed as the buy of the 2023 Super Netball season.
After spending nine years at the bottom of the ladder, the Thunderbirds defied the odds and ended the minor premiers’ nine-game winning streak in the final round before securing their spot in the grand final. This marked the third time the Thunderbirds defeated the NSW Swifts in four weeks, solidifying their dominance over their rivals.
The grand final was a tightly contested battle, with just five goals separating the teams prior to the decisive match. The Thunderbirds showcased their incredible defensive prowess, led by Jamaican goal keeper Shamera Sterling, who played a crucial role in securing the victory with her seven gains, three intercepts, and two deflections.
The sold-out crowd of 9,622 spectators at John Cain Arena witnessed history as the Thunderbirds clinched the title, setting a record for the largest-ever Super Netball attendance at the venue. The success of the Thunderbirds has not only etched their name in the history books but has also caught the attention of the South Australian government. Inspired by the team’s fantastic form, the government made a last-minute attempt to secure the grand final rights for 2024, showcasing their support for the sport.
The Thunderbirds’ triumph was a result of their resilience, belief, and the leadership of their head coach Tania Obst and assistant coach Tracey Neville. Obst praised the team’s clinical performance and their ability to execute their game plan, highlighting Cardwell’s sensational performance and her role in executing the two-point game.
For the Thunderbirds, this victory marks the beginning of a new era, as they look forward to defending their title in the upcoming seasons. Their success has not only brought joy to the team and their fans but has also prompted promises of a long overdue upgrade for their home at Netball SA Stadium.
As the Thunderbirds celebrate their well-deserved victory, they can look back at their incredible journey and use it as a foundation for future success. With the Super Netball League heading to Adelaide in 2024 and the team’s remarkable talent and determination, the Thunderbirds have the opportunity to build a legacy in Australian netball and continue to inspire future generations of players.
ADELAIDE THUNDERBIRDS
GS Eleanor Cardwell
GA Tippah Dwan
WA Georgie Horjus
C Hannah Petty
WD Latanya Wilson
GD Matilda Garrett
GK Shamera Sterling
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