The Trident Homes Tactix head to Hamilton this weekend for an ANZ Premiership match against the Magic. We talk to Tactix defender Kate Lloyd – who has been behind enemy lines as part of the Magic camp – about what has been working well for the Tactix this season, playing netball in the snow and how the game has changed since her debut in 2017.
The Magic have been steadily climbing up the points ladder and are closing in on third spot – what will it take to get the better of them this weekend?
Magic are definitely a team that we can't take lightly. Their shooting circle is extremely strong, and they have great connections through the whole court. In order for us to win we need to break their connections and scoring our own turnovers will be critical.
You’ve been a part of the Magic camp in the past, how tough is it to play them at home in Hamilton?
I loved my time at Magic and learnt so much up there playing with Casey Kopua – that experience was invaluable for me. The Magic supporters are super awesome and always get behind their team so playing them at home is always tough, but we try to focus on ourselves and not let playing home or away impact our processes.
What has been working well for the Tactix this season and what needs to be done to ensure you push on?
We are a team that is very connected and pushes each other at training. For us to push on and be successful we need to focus on ourselves and control what we can control.
Netball is celebrating a big year in New Zealand, marking its centenary – how have you seen the game evolve during your time on the netball court?
From debuting back in 2017 I think the game has evolved a lot, as there are a lot more skills and structure to the game and the game has definitely got more physical.
Who were your netball/sporting idols growing up and why?
Casey Kopua was my sporting idol growing up. I loved the way she led herself and led the team. She was the main reason I went to the Magic.
If you could change a netball rule, what would it be and why?
I think the closer to the post the shooter is the closer the defender can guard. I only say this cause I'm a defender.
What’s your earliest memories from the netball court?
My earliest would have to be in Ashburton Netball courts playing in thick snow and nearly crying every time I caught the ball cause my hands were so frozen.
What’s your favourite dessert?
I don't eat much dessert but can't go wrong with a scoop of goody gumdrops ice cream.
Netball is a large part of your life – what gets you excited about Game Day?
I really get excited about obviously game time, but I love our game day brunches. Especially at the Commodore Hotel.
Is there any netball advice you’d like to give a young Kate Lloyd starting out in sport?
I would give every tamariki the advice to play as many sports as you can growing up because it gives you valuable skills that you can take forward as an athlete or even everyday life.
- The Trident Homes Tactix head to Globox Arena in Hamilton to take on the AVIS Magic at Globox Arena on Sunday, live on Sky Sport from 4pm.
