Our FAST5 Netball Team have delivered on all the action and thrills promised of the game, snapping up the gold medal in an entertaining match against South Africa this afternoon. 

With the format having made its debut in Trinbago 2023, the Australian Team delivered a 39-29 win in front of a parochial crowd, securing the gold medal in an exciting matchup between the two countries. 

“It’s one thing putting on the green and gold, but to get the gold medal really does accomplish all our dreams, it’s an indescribable feeling,” Captain Monika ‘Otai (NSW) said. 

“You could really feel the atmosphere and the energy when you enter the room and when you’re on the floor, that really helps get you over the line.” 

As noted by goal attack Mia Lavis (NSW), the focus on the team cohesion and unity ensured that they could follow through on their game plan throughout the competition. 

“We really focused on our principles, one of which was discipline, which meant sticking to our processes and backing each other, putting relentless pressure on and we knew that’s what would get us over the line.” 

The team’s undefeated run saw them crowned champions in front of numerous Sideline Champions who attended the Games, with South Africa taking silver and England bronze. 

Meanwhile on the sand, our pair of Jasmine Rayner (QLD) and Cameron Zajer (SA) fought hard against the confident Canadian duo of Calinda Kok and Katalina Drozd, earning a silver medal in the process. 

The match, which saw Canada claim both sets 21-14, was played under the sunny and warm conditions that have been on display all week on Tobago.  

“Canada was a good team, and they played a good game today,” Rayner said. 

“It’s pretty exciting to bring home a silver medal. We’ve never played together before and to walk away with the silver medal is pretty cool.” 

The pair paid tribute to their family, friends, and support teams, noting that their achievements wouldn’t be possible without them. 

“We’d like to thank all of our coaches that helped us, and Bree, who coached us here in Trinbago, as well as our family and friends; thank you to you all.” 

Meanwhile yesterday, Mitchell Croft (VIC) and Jett Rocker-Graham (SA) played a strong match on their way to defeating South Africa’s Jayden Chrisitano Cupido and Deloshen Valaitham, finishing 5th in the men’s competition.