Lightning book in Vixens for Caloundra

As part of its build-up towards the launch of Australia’s new netball league next month, Sunshine Coast Lightning will host Melbourne Vixens for two action-packed practice matches on the Sunshine Coast.

The Vixens will make the trip north for some quality court time on Saturday and Sunday, January 21-22 at Caloundra Indoor Stadium.

Entry will be exclusively for Lightning foundation members and will be free of charge.

The loyal supporters are the backbone of the foundation club and will be treated to two thrilling tussles against quality opposition.

The games will be another opportunity for Sunshine Coast players to show they deserve a spot in the starting seven when the Suncorp Super Netball competition begins on February 18.

For Lightning midcourter Kelsey Browne, it’ll be the first time the Victorian has gone head-to-head with her former side.

“I’m really excited about coming up against Vixens, and two practice matches in two days will be a solid physical and mental test,” Browne said.

“It’ll be great to see some old teammates and have a little battle out there against friends.

“The focus will be on doing my job on the court and making sure I implement the skills we have been working on at training.

"We are preparing well as a unit and learning more about each other at every training session.”

Lightning assistant coach Kylee Byrne sees the benefit in playing back-to-back matches against a tough opponent.

“We are under no illusions about the challenge an established club like Vixens will pose to us,” Byrne said.

“New Vixens recruits Khao Watts and star goal shooter Mwai Kumwenda will provide tough opposition for our team but it’s a challenge we can’t wait for.

“This will be a chance for us to build on all the great work we’ve been doing at training and put it out on the court. Each game gives us an opportunity to build towards the start of the season.

“While we respect our opposition, the focus is on ourselves and making sure the processes we have set in place are working.

“All of our Lightning athletes are currently putting their hands up and performing at training so it’ll be a great test against the experienced Melbourne team.”

Lightning’s gripping games will be held at Caloundra Indoor Stadium (CIS) while University of the Sunshine Coast Sports Stadium undergoes a redevelopment to expand its capacity to more than 2000 ahead of the Suncorp Super Netball season.

A limited number of tickets for the members-only event will be made available free of charge on Friday.

CALOUNDRA CLASHES

Saturday 21 January: Lightning vs Vixens 5pm

Sunday 22 January: Lightning vs Vixens 11am