Shark pups up for Championship test
NETBALL: Two Souths Whitsunday Sharks young guns aren't shying away from the pressure of playing in a Queensland State Netball League decider.
While most teenagers are preparing to play club-level sport this weekend, Zoe McIntyre (17) and Molli Johnson (16) will both play crucial roles in the Sharks' championship hopes against Cairns.
Defying their ages, goal attack McIntyre and goal attack/shooter Johnson are ready to step up, seeing the state titles as the ultimate test in their respective development.
"It's a great opportunity for both of us to really expand our knowledge and really test how we go under pressure," McIntyre said.
Johnson acknowledged while it would be a big challenge, remembering why they're there in the first place helped with the pressure.
"It's really nerve-wracking leading into every game because a lot is expected of you, but if you just bring it back to the basics and remember why you started, it's really easy to focus," she said.
While Cairns were undefeated in 12 games during the season, both players felt that the last match, a 48-37 win to the Marlins, showed they could be beaten.
"We had them in the first quarter last time, so we just need to keep that pace up," McIntyre said.
"They have great athleticism, but if we stick to the basics, I think we can get them."