How two shock losses became the spark the Tigers needed

TORQUAY’s top netballers received a shock last month when they lost to Newcomb and Surf Coast Suns, but it was one head coach Madi Browne said the team needed.

After an impressive start to the season, the Tigers stumbled in rounds 11 and 12 against sides they would have expected to beat.

“The basic things that we hold ourselves accountable to we weren’t doing,” Browne said.

“I love the quote ‘You don’t rise to the occasion, you fall to your training standards’, and we looked at ourselves internally and realised we’d let the ball go on a few things.”

While it was not the challenge Browne wanted, she said the timing proved valuable.

With two weeks off and two wins since, the Tigers are preparing for a strong finish to the season.

Last weekend’s five-goal win over reigning premiers Ocean Grove – the second time they have defeated them this year – showed the team’s ability to adapt.

As the group continues to reset, individual players are also finding their form.

Captain Kiralee Collings has admitted she struggled to find her best netball this season, but her performance through the midcourt against Ocean Grove impressed Browne.

“She had a bit of a slump in the middle of the season, but her frugalness with the ball was quite outstanding on the weekend when the pressure was on,” Browne said.

“She was like ‘Yep, give it to me. I know what to do’ and really controlled the game tempo.

“I think she has bounced back to some of her best netball.”

Helping players through challenges has been a rewarding part of Browne’s second year at Torquay.

This year’s squad features several new faces, with Browne praising their impact alongside the existing core group.

New recruit Evie Hughes arrived from Myrtleford through her connection with goal shooter Daisy O’Kane and has quietly impressed.

Browne said the young player should not be underestimated.

Ariana Laumanu has also joined the Tigers from Anglesea and strengthened the attacking end.

“I struggled to coach against her last year, I was like ‘Why are you so creative. I’d love to have a player like her’,” Browne said.

“She’s come over and just been amazing. She’s so creative with the ball in hand.”

After initially joining as a specialist coach, Browne said taking on the head coaching role this season has allowed her to become more settled and put her own stamp on the program.

“It’s been good to build something – there was a really strong foundation there, but to put my mark on it has been fun,” she said.