Vernyik has represented her state at multiple age levels in cricket but is hoping to end a big netball season in style by catching the eye of state selectors when the Queensland State Titles start at Nissan Arena on Saturday.
Heading into what will be her third Queensland State Titles with the Wildcats, Vernyik was a member of the Wildcats EPL Open team which reached this year’s grand final and also captained Clairvaux Mackillop College Mt Gravatt to the Division 4 title at the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball (QISSN) carnival in June.
Named as Clairvaux’s MVP and the Division 4 rising star following the QISSN event, Vernyik is heading into the Queensland State Titles with lofty ambitions.
“Making the state squad or team would definitely be the main goal,” Vernyik said.
“I’m always wanting to improve my netball and get better, and getting picked would be an absolute dream to be acknowledged as one of the best.
“I have really been enjoying my netball this year and because of this I feel like I have improved.
“I have no idea what’s to come in the future for me but all I can do is keep working hard and hopefully I might see some rewards.”
A talented all-rounder on the cricket pitch, Vernyik says her skills with bat and ball as well as the leadership roles she’s undertaken translate easily into her netball.
“As a goaler in netball, there’s of course the expectation that we have to sink all our shots,” she said.
“With that comes pressure.
“Likewise on the cricket field as a bowler and batter there comes pressure.
“However having the ability to make an impact of the game is why I have loved both sports so much.
“The excitement of sinking a long shot, hitting the stumps or smashing a six gives you such a rush of adrenaline that is truly one of the best feelings in the world.”
Vernyik’s Wildcats are among 11 teams competing in the 18 and Under division at the State Titles while there are 13 teams in 16 and Under in 2024, with Vernyik one of over 250 athletes seeking to be rewarded with selection in the Queensland 19 and Under and 17 and Under squads after the event.
New HART Sapphire Series license holder Moreton Bay City Pulse will be competing in the competition for the first time, bringing a new dimension to the tournament while a North Queensland 18 and Under team will represent the region in that division – demonstrating Netball Queensland’s commitment to showcasing the best up and coming talent from all over the state.
“I am most looking forward to the challenge of playing lots of netball over the four days,” Vernyik said.
“Three games a day will definitely be challenging but I am very excited to shoot lots of goals and get the chance to play with my friends for my last state titles campaign.
“I am definitely also excited to see all the different colour dresses in one arena.”
The 2024 Queensland State Titles will be held at Nissan Arena from Saturday to Tuesday and for more information click here.
