The inclusion of an inaugural Tasmanian team in this year’s competition, which will be held at Brisbane’s Nissan Arena from September 6 to 8, ensures there will be representation from all states and territories.
The Marie Little Shield is the national competition for female netballers with an intellectual disability and for the Gems, the chance to compete this year in front of a home crowd will be a huge lift.
Defender Zoe Gauld is preparing to represent Queensland for the seventh straight year and for her mother Danielle there’s no doubt about the benefits her daughter has received through the Gems program.
“From the beginning Zoe was very shy and not confident in herself and in making friends but she loved the sport,” Danielle said.
“She came out of her shell and has certainly become much more sure of herself … she is on Instagram with her friends and many of those are players from other states who have become special pals.”
For Gems Head Coach Merrin McCulloch this weekend’s competition is an exciting opportunity for the squad.
“We are in a very tough pool against NSW and Victoria which is very challenging – especially for the newer players – and the crossover is also daunting but we will be doing our best,” McCulloch said.
“The Gems’ players are very keen to play in nationals. The skill level of several of the younger players has really lifted and that gives me confidence.
“Whatever the result – it will be a good one.”
For more information on the Queensland Gems or Marie Little Shield, click here.
Queensland Gems 2024 Marie Little Shield Team
Wilhemena Thaw, Mason Dare, Lorelei Page, Emily Kennedy, Emma Mangan, Alice Dunkley, Olivia Page, Katelyn Mitchell, Charlee Kibble, Zoe Gauld, Hanri Smith, Jasmin Catterall. (Training Partners: Reanna Wright, Jennifer Collins, Lisa Lenton, Julia Joseph, Ellie Casswell.)
