NEWS

End of Season Celebrations
20th June 2010

There certainly is a lot to celebrate this season! The Youth team came Runners-Up in the Netball Talent League and as well as a whole host of individual achievements (both internationally and domestically) our senior side proved that the "development" ethos of Mavericks works as once again we made it to the Grand Final.

At the start of the season it was interesting to hear the chatter on the Sky Sports Netball Superleague programme and the Netball Pod as Mavericks were mentioned as the team to watch, but as the season progressed and our form dipped it seemed less likely that our black and purple girls would make it to the top spot this season. Following a plague of injuries Mavericks turned the corner and came into form showing some fantastic personal developments by new and established players and the gaps created by losing those very talented players were plugged. The pundits had to swallow their words as gradually it became clear that although we might not have been firing on all cylinders, there is certainly a "Die Hard" attitude to Mavericks when they step on the court. As the Play Offs continued and we managed to stay in the game and make it to the Grand Final! Although we did not come away with the trophy (this year) the match was unlike previous encounters with Team Bath at this level. Sometimes Mavericks have been blown away in the last round and not challenged sufficiently for the gold, but this year we did ourselves proud. There is no doubt that running a franchise is hard and the commitment required from all the players, staff and volunteers is astounding, but there is also no doubt that Mavericks is special. Each match hundreds of netball fans are inspired by seeing physical and psychological excellence in action. This level game feeds the imagination and aspirations of young and old. The organisation and work behind the scenes creates a fantastic event that families and sports fans can enjoy and without any hestitation we can say is a positive influence and expereince for everyone involved. Well done Mavericks on another amazing season.

Garden Party

For the first time this year, there were a number of celebrations going on! The usual Mavericks Garden Party took place at Youth Coach Sam Bird's house and each squad also had a bit of a "team" bash.

The senior presentations took place at the Garden Party:  

Coaches Player:  Georgia Schmidt
Players Player: Camilla Buchanan
Most improved Player: Vicklyn Joseph and Rose Morgan Smith
Squad player: Naida Hutchinson
The Maverick Award: Amanda Newton
Captain Award: Louisa Brownfield
The background workers: Karen Atkinson and Hazel Schofield

There was swimming and rounders along with a great BBQ and buffet. A lovely event where junior and senior players chilled out and enjoyed the day along with off court volunteers. Thanks again to our hosts!

Mavericks Youth

The youth players saved their presentations for when everyone could make it and held an event with parents and players.

Coaches Player: Josie Huckle
Most Dependable Player: Loran Wyatt
Most Improved Player: Danielle Stigwood
Players' Player: Jade Cornhill

Well done to all involved this season and good luck for 2010/11!