IN a tale of unfortunate events, the GIANTS narrowly missed out on a top four spot and finals. After a see-sawing year the GIANTS looked to have all but secured a finals berth but were knocked out by a desperate Collingwood side in the final round. New recruits and young up-and-coming players paved the way for the GIANTS success in 2019.

Position: 5th
Percentage: 101.58%
Win-loss: 7-1-6

Overview:

During the off-season the GIANTS signed Australian Diamonds captain Caitlin Bassett in what was a massive coup for the club. Paired with English international Jo Harten the two took some time to adjust and get into a rhythm before forming a deadly combination when on song. Serena Guthrie’s departure left a gaping hole in the midcourt but Jamie-Lee Price stood up to the plate making the transition into centre and paving the way for excitement machine Amy Parmenter in wing defence. Parmenter steadily built into the season slowly making the role her own and showcasing her speed and dynamic movement while up the other end of the court Kiera Austin highlighted her versatility shifting between goals and wing attack with ease. Defensively Sam Poolman and Kristiana Manu’a were solid working well in tandem to limit easy access into circle and shut down space. After a highly decorated career netball great Kim Green decided to hang up the dress retiring her no look passes and silky footwork.

Shining light:

There is no denying that the future is bright for Parmenter with the 22-year-old developing each and every game. Although costly at times Parmenter backed herself in the contest while shutting down players with her hands over pressure and clever footwork to stop the drive to the top of the circle. Her speed off the mark and ability to read the play enabling her to rack up intercepts and get timely tips to help pile on the pressure defensively.

2020 predictions:

With plenty of young talent coming up through the ranks such as Price, Parmenter and the recently signed Maddie Hay the GIANTS have a bright future. Parmenter had a break out season this year and will be looking to keep that momentum rolling while Price showcased her skill earning a spot in the Diamonds squad. If the GIANTS maintain this trajectory it could be a similar case for Hay who has shown her class and endurance at ANL level.