WITH the Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) season done and dusted Draft Central takes a look back at the year that was for each team, where they went wrong, improvements and hopes for the 2021 season. It has been an unconventional season to say the least with a condensed season, rolling subs, introduction of the super shot, extended benches and of course the Queensland hub making for an action packed year of netball. The first team to kick off proceedings is Collingwood who struggled to get going and find their winning formula.

Ladder: 8^th
Win-loss: 1-13
Percentage: 88.3%

Overview:

It was an incredibly difficult year for the black and white as Collingwood only managed the one win against Queensland Firebirds early in their campaign and were once again riddled with injuries. They lost the services of Ash Brazill prior to the commencement of the season to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury while Nat Medhurst was a late withdrawal due to pregnancy and then was unable to get up to the Queensland based hub due to the COVID-19 restrictions. Unfortunately it did not stop there for Collingwood as both Madi and Kelsey Browne were ruled out of the season midway through due to recurring ACL niggles. Medhurst’s pregnancy and Madi’s knee complaint led to the star duo retiring however it was not all doom and gloom for Collingwood with a couple of youngsters stepping up to the plate and dominating.

Gabby Sinclair took the next step up in her career with her long range shooting doing wonders for the Pies while the ever-experienced and classy Geva Mentor starred down back with her lean over the shot, signature roll and ability to read the play. Mel Bragg was another player that emerged as a real game changer for Collingwood able to hunt down and lose ball and apply a wealth of hands over pressure while Matilda Garrett showed glimpses of brilliance credit to her quick footwork and long arms. In the shooting circle, Shimona Nelson was the go to girl thanks to her aerial dominance and accuracy under the post while Emma Ryde proved to be a handy option when needed. Although she did not get a wealth of court time youngster Nyah Allen displayed a wealth of composure and netball smarts to dance around the court and slot them from anywhere.

Shining light:
Elevated to the list as an injury replacement player to start with in 2020, Molly Jovic quickly became a revelation running through the centre with her speed, dynamic movement and tenacity constantly on show. Her work rate was second to none, able to run all day and most importantly was cautious with ball in hand. Her versatility worked wonders swinging between wing defence, centre and wing attack while seamlessly pairing with the likes of the Browne sisters when they were playing and Kelly Altmann to find circle edge. Jovic proved to be more than a one trick pony, able to effectively ply her trade on a defensive front with her ball winning capabilities but also used her speed to create a number of attacking forays.

Best off-season pickup:
Jamaican international Jodi-Ann Ward developed at a rate of knots throughout the season, adapting to the pace of the game and having a profound impact towards the latter end of the season. Although costly at times with her physicality at the contest her intent was never questionable, constantly attacking the ball carrier and backing herself in. She played a real dogged style of defence, hustling hard for position while her turn of speed enabled her to cover the court with great ease. Ward was electric and paired up with Mentor easily to create strong defensive plays while her footwork was another crucial part of her game play.

Predictions:
Still on the hunt for a new coach for the 2021 SSN season, Collingwood will be hoping to consolidate on their foundations and get some more court time into the young up-and-coming players in the squad. They showcased moments of magic but will be hoping to find more consistency in order to grind out games and make their way up the ladder in 2021.