A CHANGE of scenery is paying dividends for Red Cliffs recruit Zara Copley, who had a huge role in her team’s first win of the season against Robinvale Euston at the weekend.
Playing in goal attack, Copley and captain Jazmin Parker were a formidable duo for the Tigers, who have a revamped energy about them.
“To get the win and have the hard work pay off was an over-the-moon feeling,” Copley said.
“We had some tough match-ups to start the season, but we made it clear at the start that we wanted to get a win on the board and we got it.
“We’ve just got to believe we can win every game and that one on the weekend, we definitely had that belief.”
While coach Romany Bowen said there was still room for improvement, she commended her team’s willingness to step out of their comfort zone.
“These girls have been put into new positions, so we’re all learning new combinations,” Bowen said.
“Zara is one that’s had to change the way she plays a little and so far she’s done really well.
“Both shooters were excellent … once they start to click and get things going, they’re two of the best shooters in the competition and they both came to the party.”
Copley said that after the win, the team was quick to show their support to their coach, who she said had been “amazing” as their leader.
“Romany is the best, she’s so encouraging and so supportive, we wouldn’t have the belief of winning or given one hundred percent without her,” Copley said.
“After the game all of us said ‘this win is for you’ … it really felt like a lot of her hard work and dedication paid off, not just the players.”
Copley also said she was grateful for the opportunities she’d received since arriving at Quandong Park, notably a coaching role with the 17 & Under Division 1 team.
It was an added bonus that the young Tigers were able to come away with a one-point victory at the weekend.
“Coaching has been a new opportunity for me and I’m loving it so far,” Copley said.
As the Netballer of the Week, Copley receives $150 from Holcroft Lawyers
