N.Z. netball team

Press, 9 April 1979, Page 6

N.Z. netball team

PA Wellington. New Zealand’s netball selectorcoach. Lois Muir, has opted for youth and versatility in her team of 12 for the world championships in Trinidad, in July and August. After two days of trials in Wellington, only seven of last year s squad have retained their places. Leading the young brigade is Margaret Forsythe, aged 17. a Waikato schoolgirl, whose selection comes after a notable athletes season as a hurdler. It had been thought by some experts that Forsythe would be left to find a place in the New Zealand under 21 team, trials for which will be held in Nelson later this month. But form on the day and not reputations was what counted at the Wellington senior trials, and on that basis Forsythe has earned her place among the forwards. The other outstanding players at the trials were Christine Pietzner (Canterbury) and Margaret Kamana (Wellington). Pietzner, who dominated centre court play with the national captain. Lynn Parker Waikato), is back in the team after an absence. Kamana. a seasoned interna- [ tional. showed potential match winning touches as goal shoot.

Her initiative, tinning and ball control were of high order.

The other Wellington player in ihe .squad. Marilyn Munro, combined well with her defence partner since 1574, Yvonne Willering (Auckland*. Ruth Fathers (North Shore', a new cap, did not impress as much as the tall, speedy Forsythe. but all the same revealed qualities of sustained attacking and intelligent breaking under the basket— as well as having the best goal shooting average at the trials. One player to survive an ordin ary performance at the trial was Geane Katae (Canterbury). How ever, her youth and international experience probably ruled in her favour Adrianne Prattley (Canterbury), came out of the trials well and her omission was a surprise, while Pauline Knaggs (Welling tom was unlucky to miss out at goal defence, the nod going to Stephanie Proudlove (Otago). The New Zealand squad is:— Maxine Blomquist (Canterbury . Ruth Fathers (North Shore Margaret Forsythe i Waikato Janice Henderson iCanlerbun Margaret Kamana Wellington , Geane Katae (Canterbury), Leigh Mills iWaikato). Christine Pietzner (Canterbury), Stephanie Proudlove Otagm, Yvonne Wil. ering Auckland).