Sunshine Coast Lightning’s Charlie Bell became Tactix #80 last week, making her debut in the ANZ Premiership. We talk to the 1.97m shooter about the call-up to the Trident Homes Tactix side as injury cover, why she got involved in the game and what she knows about this week’s opponent, the Stars.
What was the experience like of your first ANZ Premiership match for the Tactix?
It was so much fun. Coming over here I had a fear I was going to be really nervous but when (Tactix coach) Mits (Marianne Delaney-Hoshek) told me to put the goal shooter bib on, I didn't get the wave of anxiety. I just couldn't wait to get out on court and get my first shot away. It was a very physical game, but I've got heaps of learnings I can take into next round.
When did you start playing netball?
I was 12 when I first started playing netball, a bit older than my peers. My best friend was attending the trials one day after school and she asked me to come with her because she didn't want to go by herself. I grew up playing basketball but thought ‘why not’. Mind you, I was wearing a long sleeve top, denim shorts and vans!
What was your reaction when you learned you’d be heading to Christchurch to play for the Tactix?
I got a call from my manager thinking it was a chat about a sponsorship deal with Asics, but to my surprise she told me a spot had opened up to be a temporary replacement player in New Zealand. So after bursting into happy tears, I said ‘yes’ and before I knew it, I was rushing back up to the Sunshine Coast and my roommates helped me pack up my life, ready to catch a flight the next day.
How do you overcome nerves/pressure on game day?
I've found that using grounding techniques has really helped calm my nerves on game day. My parents and coaches have always told me nerves are good because it means you care. I like to use visualisation when I go to the post to shoot before our team chat. That really helps me think about the opposition I'll be up against. I use breathing techniques to settle me and when I get out onto court, I ground myself by touching the post before each quarter starts.
Have you been to New Zealand before – how has Christchurch been treating you?
No, this is the second country outside of Australia I’ve been to. Christchurch has been lovely. I'm liking the switch up in weather compared to a very sunny and hot Queensland, but the cold mornings will take some getting used to.
What do you think is the biggest difference between the game in New Zealand compared to Australia?
I know that New Zealand loves a zone defence even though I'm very used to man-on-man. They also love a bit of push and shove in the defence but that's a credit to the strength of the circle defenders, they welcomed me to the court with that physical presence instantly. In attack, my coaches have always preached to our front line to play the ball to the circle edge and give the short option to work it in. After experiencing just a few court sessions and playing against the Steel, I’ve found they love to look long and send the ball into the shooter from far away – that just means my responsibility is to be ready for those passes.
What are your netball goals?
My long-term goal is to definitely make the Australian Diamonds, as either an invitee, squad member or officially a team member. It’s a dream every little girl in Australia has, to be able to wear the green and gold standing alongside my sisters in arms. It was my Dad’s dream as much as mine to be a Diamond, so he and my family are definitely the motivation to make this dream a reality.
What’s your favourite pre-game food?
Great question. Safest answer is probably going to be a big bowl of pasta with some garlic bread and a cold juice. Carbs on carbs on carbs!
Do you know much about the Stars and what to expect when the Tactix play them on Sunday?
I'm not super familiar with the line-up, but I know that Mila Reuelu-Buchanan is a gun middie, I've played with her/against her in a practice match when the Silver Ferns held a camp whilst visiting the Sunny Coast. I also know Rahni Samason who played in Vixens for a few years who is incredibly consistent and reliable.
● The Trident Homes Tactix host the Stars in Round 2 of the ANZ Premiership at Wolfbrook Arena on Sunday, 21 April at 4pm, where they will play for the Hanmer
