Wood signs off after achieving Diamonds “dream”
DIAMONDS star Steph Wood officially stepped down from international duties, announcing her retirement at the conclusion of Australia’s Netball World Cup success. Citing it as being the “right time”, Wood said she was privileged to don the green and gold more than 50 times since making her debut in 2016.
“It was a dream of mine to play for the Diamonds and the past seven years have been amazing,” Wood said.
“The friendships and relationships that I have made are lifelong and the experiences that we have all shared are some of the best memories. “It feels like the right time for me to make way for the next generation of Diamonds. I am very content with what I have achieved and given to international netball.”
Now 31 years-old, Wood played 56 test caps for the Australian Diamonds, making her debut in the 2016 Netball Quad Series in South Africa, and fittingly put a full stop on her glowing green and gold career in the same nation.
Australia won its 12th Netball World Cup last week, defeating England in the Gold Medal Match to finish Wood’s career on a high. Having also won a Gold Medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the predominant goal attack has achieved all there is to achieve on the international stage.
Wood was named vice-captain of the Diamonds in 2021, and completed the full set of international tournaments, including wins in the Netball Quad Series (2022-23), Constellation Cup (2022) and England Series (2022).
Diamonds coach Stacey Marinkovich paid tribute to Wood, with Diamond #170 having a profound impact on the biggest of stages.
“Steph has made a significant contribution not only to the on-court performance of the Diamonds but also to the Sisters in Arms legacy,” Marinkovich said.
“She has shown a unique craft with the ball – she has been the playmaker for the Diamonds attack end for many years, causing a headache to every opposition we’ve faced.
“While Steph steps away from an on-court role, she will forever be connected to the Diamonds as #170.”
Wood will not be lost to the Australian netball community as the smart shooter will continue at domestic level, where she is the captain of the Sunshine Coast Lightning. Always known for her court IQ and ability to both fire from range and find her shooting teammate, Wood will be long remembered for her impact on and off the court.
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