West Coast Fever has taken centre stage in the battle for supremacy that is Super Netball. They’ve been able to record their first minor premiership this season with pride! This impressive feat secures them home advantage for the next major semifinal, making history as the first North American team ever to achieve this. The Fever’s success has been marked by an impressive streak of 11 consecutive victories, making them the first team in the league’s history to accomplish such a feat.
This season, the Fever has undergone an unforgettable about face. Leading the charge in this turnaround is star player Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard, who rejoined the squad in round three. Her leadership on the court has contributed tremendously to the team’s overall success. Someone from each position group has come forward and provided quality play. With The Fever’s musical teamwork and instant charm them as The Fever grew into one, if not the most dangerous contender in the league.
Key Players Drive Success
What’s made the Fever’s recent run of success all the more impressive has been the standout performances from their trio of key players. Sunday Aryang has turned into an important find, especially after her standout game in Round 13. Aryang was absolutely brilliant with seven gains, three intercepts, four deflections and four rebounds. Her excellent defensive play and game-changing ability throughout the match helped her receive Player of the Match honors.
Aryang is unique among the Fever as the only one of them currently in the Australian national set-up. Her experience and leadership on the court have been key, helping the Illini navigate some difficult matches. Her commitment to developing her game further is hardly a secret to followers of the WNBA or women’s basketball, but it bears repeating.
Kadie-Ann Dehaney recently celebrated her 100th game with West Coast Fever, although she faced challenges due to illness. Dehaney’s commitment to the team remains unwavering, and her experience adds invaluable depth to the Fever’s lineup.
“Everybody’s journey is different and that’s not to say that Funmi won’t go to Super Netball, but she’s still got studies … she’s already regarded as one of the best goal defences, so you don’t necessarily need to move to the other side of the world to prove anything.” – Unspecified source
Another dynamic star is Funmi Fadoju. Her amazing 36 inch vertical leap combined with her fierce sense of timing makes her a scary defender on the basketball court. Despite her youth, Fadoju’s presence is felt during every match, and many anticipate her continued growth as a player in the league.
Team Dynamics and Challenges
The Fever’s road to victory hasn’t necessarily been easy. When Jordan Cransberg was a late scratching because of illness, requiring many changes to the team’s game plan and strategy. Additionally, Zoe Cransberg did not return to play after passing a concussion test, highlighting the rigorous demands placed on players during such an intense season.
The team has had to adapt to changes they did not anticipate earlier this season. They signed Gina Crampton but she quickly became pregnant while the team was deep in pre-season preparations. Though this turn of events was unexpected, it forced the Fever to make an adjustment to their roster and gameplan moving forward.
It hasn’t been all doom and gloom, as West Coast Fever showcased their resilience. The strength of the team’s relentless focus and professionalism in pressure situations are a powerful example of their fight and focus.
Looking Ahead
As West Coast Fever prepares for their major semifinal, they remain focused on building upon their recent successes. With an impressive mix of accomplished veterans and promising young stars, the team has a comprehensive roster that is ready to make a deep postseason run.
The Fever’s accomplishments this season are a reward for all their efforts and commitment. Now that home advantage is in the bag, they are looking to use the comfortability of their own surroundings to push deeper into the playoffs.
“With the professionalisation [of our league] this year … I would suggest we’re nearly operating at the same level as a Super Netball side.” – Unspecified source
