The world of netball is not just a women’s game anymore. As the Netball Super League gears up for a professional future post its 2025 overhaul, the men’s side of the sport is also making strides. One such example is England’s Thorns, who recently played their inaugural match in 2022 against Australia’s Kelpies.
The Thorns faced a tough start, losing 63-34 in their first encounter with the Kelpies. Despite the initial setback, there is optimism among players like Tommy Wiseman, who believe that with dedication and hard work, they can bridge the gap and take men’s netball to new heights.
“The game is going in the right direction…”
Tommy Wiseman expressed his enthusiasm for the future of men’s netball during an interview with Sky Sports. He highlighted his aspirations for the sport to evolve into a more professional arena, akin to what female players are experiencing currently.
Wiseman emphasized how male netballers might be trailing behind their female counterparts by about two decades but remained hopeful for a future where a professional league, sponsorships, and adequate funding would elevate men’s netball to new levels.
Self-funding and High Standards
Despite being self-funded at present, Wiseman shared insights into how the Thorns are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for excellence. From incorporating pilates and yoga into their training regime to delving deep into video analysis sessions and strength conditioning coaching – every detail matters for these aspiring athletes.
Moreover, Wiseman credited his experience training alongside London Mavericks’ women’s team as eye-opening. It taught him that excelling in netball isn’t just about physical prowess; it requires sharp strategic thinking on-court.
Overcoming Mental Barriers
Facing formidable opponents like Australia has been a learning curve for Wiseman and his teammates. Initially overwhelmed by playing against renowned teams like Australia, he soon realized that once on court, it all boiled down to executing what they had practiced diligently.
Wiseman reflected on past encounters where margins were wider but noted significant improvements over time. Despite acknowledging errors made during recent matches against top-tier rivals, he remains steadfast in closing the performance gap through persistence and determination.
In conclusion:
With each match played and every training session attended diligently – England’s Thorns are on an exciting trajectory towards establishing themselves as serious contenders in men’s netball. Their journey encapsulates passion meeting perseverance while striving towards excellence on court.
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