Netball Untamed: Kimiora Poi

“You Don’t Need to Be Tall to Be a Fantastic Netball Player!”

Netball, a non-contact sport? Mate, you’re dreaming! As our sport grows and evolves to dizzying new heights of physicality, skill and speed, we chat to our ANZ Premiership players about what playing ‘untamed’ means to them, and how they’re adapting their own gameplay to rise and meet the new challenges – and exciting opportunities! – that arise from netball’s new era.

Fresh off her first ever season for the Southern Steel – as captain, no less – Kimiora Poi has her sights set on making her mark wherever she goes. Here, she taps into her own untamed side and offers up her advice for gaining that sought-after mental edge over your opponents.

Kia ora! Tell us, what does the word “untamed” mean to you, both in life and in netball? 

I think in life, and in netball, untamed is being able to fully be yourself, express yourself and not let anything hold you back. 

How has your netball style changed as you’ve gone on in your career? Do you play the game differently than you used to, and if so why?

I wouldn’t say my style has changed, but it’s more so evolved. As I’ve gotten older and been around a bit, I think I’ve become more mature in the way I play. I probably am more calm, and just get on with it!

What’s the toughest part of your role on the court, do you think, and how do you train or prepare for it?

The toughest part would be consistently being able to do my job for the full 60 minutes, and being able to ride the highs and lows - and when the pressure comes on. To prepare, I need to know exactly what my role is in structures and train it, then also know the team and individual go to’s, when things aren’t going so well.

How many hours of training do you do a week during the season, and what is one part of your training that may surprise people?

We are on the netball court three or four times a week, in the gym two to three times a week, off feet conditioning on the bike or in the pool one to two times a week, plus the captains run on game day – and of course, a game! On top of that, we have to keep up with our own recovery, and team meetings for self and opposition analysis. 

We know just how much physical strength is required to play netball, but mental strength is equally important. What do you do to stay mentally sharp and well?

I make sure I have clarity on my role on the court, and know when things get tough, what my strengths are to bring me back. Then off court, I make sure I have a mental break away from netball. Whether that’s chill time, watching Netflix, connecting with family and friends. I also like to write things down to get things out of my head, which I find helps.

There's still a perception that netball is exclusively a women's sport. How do you view the increasing participation of men and boys in netball, and what impact does this have on the sport's evolution?

I’m not really a big picture thinker! However, the more people involved in our sport the better I feel, then we will be able to get more reach in the community. 

What’s one drill, strength or skill you swear by on the court to elevate your game and get on top of your opposition?

Basics. Nailing the fundamental skills, turning fully, passing into space and owning your job on defence. 

What’s the biggest sacrifice you make in order to play professional netball?

I wouldn’t say it’s a sacrifice, but more a choice I’ve made to be able to do what I do. That would be moving away from family, friends and my partner. 

What’s a myth about netball that you think we need to dispel?

That you have to be tall to be a successful netball player! I’m only 1.69m!

Very true! So tell us then, where do you feel the most strong and confident, and why?

In a positive environment that is fun and I’m enjoying myself. Whether that’s around my team-mates or my family and friends.

How much of a game-changer is having a psychological edge over your opponent, and how do you personally get it?

It’s a huge game changer. There’s nothing more thrilling than when you feel like you have it over your opponent, everything seems to just go your way. How do you get it? Self-belief in yourself and your team, and being really connected with your team-mates.

If you could give advice to anyone taking the court this year who wants to tap into their untamed side, what would it be?

Back yourself and your own strengths and abilities, on and off the court!