Team Preview: WBOP Magic
The WBOP Magic will be hoping their proud record continues in Netball’s new era. Given their pre-season form, all indications are that if they can keep key players on court there’s no reason why they can’t. ANZPremiership.co.nz takes a look at the Nagic ahead of the season opener on March 26.
Home venues: Claudelands Arena, Hamilton; ASB BayPark, Tauranga; Energy Events Centre, Tauranga.
Coach: Margaret Forsyth
Captain: Casey Kopua
Team: view player profiles
Game changer: Casey Kopua
She’s back! After missing the 2016 season due to the birth of her first child, Casey Kopua has put the coaching clipboard down and will return to the court in 2017. Known for her determination, passion, ability to make the big play and lead a team – Magic fans will have their cowbells ringing every time one of their favourites touches the ball.
Match winner: Sam Sinclair
She’s zippy, she’s gutsy, and she’ll be critical to the Magic’s chances in 2017. Welcome to the court Sam Sinclair. The Rotorua-born midcourter who made her Silver Ferns debut earlier this year is one player fans should definitely keep an eye on. Her combination with Grace Rasmussen is like poetry in motion and with new shooters in their ranks – the ability of Sam to keep hitting the circle edge, find space and deliver pinpoint feeds will be important.
Player to watch: Lenize Potgieter
South African shooter Lenize Potgieter will spearhead the Magic’s circle in 2017. Cool under pressure and her ability to slot them from everywhere – Potgieter will be a strong target under the hoop. Her combination with young gun Monica Falkner is one fans should keep their eyes on.
What the coach says:
“We’ve got some highly skilled players in our team, but we need to keep working hard on just letting the ball go,” coach Margaret Forsyth said.
“When it comes to those moments where we really need to dig deep, we want to show we have the composure, we welcome the challenge, and we can push through for the win.”
First Match:
The WBOP Magic will host the opening weekend of the ANZ Premiership – a blockbuster Super Sunday featuring all six teams at Claudelands Arena, Hamilton, on March 26. Their first opponent, the Mainland Tactix – GET TICKETS.