It’s her first derby day in the ANZ Premiership and English Rose Laura Malcolm can’t wait to pull on the red dress for the Trident Homes Tactix when they take on the Southern Steel in Invercargill on Monday. We talk to the midcourter about the Premiership, how she prepares for game day and what her favourite Kiwi delicacy is.
How have you found the first two rounds of the ANZ Premiership?
Well both games have been very tightly contested which are always the most fun. I really love being in teams and environments where the group thrive off the challenge together. At the moment that’s exactly what it feels like with this group so I’m really enjoying it.
What was it like playing your first ‘home’ game for the Tactix in front of the Canterbury crowd?
It felt great! Mainly because I got to meet a lot of the fans at the end of the game which is one of my favourite things about netball. We always have a strong relationship with our fans, and I think that’s something really unique and special about our sport.
What motivates you?
I’ve forever been driven by my desire to grow as a person. I love learning, I love adding new tricks to my trade, I love challenging myself physically and mentally and I love to reflect and go again. I think it’s more than just a motivation it’s just how I operate and it’s a process that makes me happy.
What are you expecting from the Steel this weekend – they’ve had some big losses but are playing in front of their home crowd which always lifts them.
Well, it’s what I would call a “derby day”, which is my FAVE day of the season. I’m anticipating that when the two South Island teams front up against each other it’s always a good battle. They’ve been building each week and we’re also working on tidying up a few things, so it’s a game I’m really looking forward to.
Do you have a pre-game routine?
I’m a big fan of pre-game napping! It’s not an essential but if I have a choice, I’ll have a nice long nap so that I’m as recharged as possible then wake up in game mode.
What’s your favourite music to listen to pre-game?
Cheesy cheesy pop music, heavy metal or a musical. It depends on what kind of mood I’m in.
How do you overcome nerves/pressure on game day?
I always just acknowledge my feelings of nervousness. Whether I say it out loud or just say it to myself it always helps to just admit it. I also remind myself that this pressure, challenge, or game is exactly what I’ve been training for and where I want to be. So just go do it.
What’s your favourite Kiwi delicacy?
AHHHHH PINEAPPLE LUMPS ARE ELITE. I normally buy some at the airport at the end of a Roses tour for family…they never make it home! I’m not sure it’s a good idea to eat any this early on because once I have one, I don’t think I’ll stop.
- The Trident Homes Tactix meet the Steel in Invercargill on Monday at 7.35pm, live on Sky TV
