Firebirds first training camp

The Queensland Firebirds have started preparations for the 2006 Commonwealth Bank Trophy season with a one day training camp to be conducted this weekend under the control of new coach Vicki Wilson.

Wilson, who took over as coach after the sacking of Brenda Scherian, is confident that the Firebirds will be a much better performed team following several seasons where they have failed to impress.

“We have certainly put the past behind us and with the renewed determination and enthusiastic attitude of the players we are looking to be the most successful Firebirds team ever,” Wilson told the Netball Queensland website.

The Firebirds have added New South Wales goaler Jo Morgan to the squad and this will take the pressure off co captain Carla Dziwoki to score the bulk of the goals.

Belinda Dever also returns after not appearing for the Firebirds last season and with her return as well as the addition of Morgan, the Firebirds should have a greater flexibility in their squad for season 2006.

Queensland has long been a strong performing netball state at representative level and Wilson believes that such success can brush off on the Firebirds.

“We are excited and can’t wait for the competition to begin. This camp is the first step in our quest for winning and will set the tempo for this season’s training and performance,” said Wilson.

The camp will take place tomorrow and includes a range of activities including physical challenges as well as a team bonding exercise in the afternoon.

For the Firebirds, season 2006 opens on May 5 with a home game against the defending premiers Melbourne Phoenix at Chandler Arena.

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