W.O.W

What a fantastic couple of days it has been here in Singapore at the World Netball Championships!

From coaches’ sons being ousted in the media for being, well, a little ‘careless’ with his direction, shall we say (http://www.theage.com.au/travel/travel-incidents/netball-coachs-son-outed-as-jetstar-urinator-20110705-1gzmx.html) to record high scores ON court (97 by Australia), and record high temperatures OFF the court, Singapore has definitely been living up to expectations for those here with Sportsnet.

Sportsnet took some time out yesterday morning and headed on up the Marina Bay Sands Skydeck to check out the view from above – and what a I view it is! Completely clear views, 360C, of Singapore… not to mention the infinity pool with the same view on the other side of the hotel!

This morning saw the Sportsnet group journey out of the city limits and take in an exclusive Diamonds training session, watching routines, players discussing setups, structures, match ups and more. Injured former skipper Sharelle McMahon was on hand to greet the Sportsnet group as they entered the stadium and took their places, while Australian legend and Sportsnet NWC tour ambassador Vicki Wilson explained throughout the session the logic and reasons behind the training regime.

Impressive during training was youngster Sharni Layton and newer Australian squad members Erin Bell and Chelsea Pittman. Needless to say it was an interesting and educational experience for netball fans, in particular the girls from St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School, taking in the skills on show and the intensity required to make it to the top of their sport on the world stage.

Coach Norma Plummer took time out afterwards to spend time discussing her role as coach with the group, as well as discussing her reasons behind the selections made for the World Championship squad.

Following the Q&A with Norma Plummer, the squad made themselves available for a signing and photo session, each of the Sportsnet group waiting in line patiently for their favourite stars autographs on pictures, programs, balls, shirts and more…

On the tournamet front, predictably, the Silver Ferns and Diamonds have been taking turns setting benchmark high scores against weaker opponents, but it’s the form of England that has the Singapore Indoor Stadium crowd talking a possible upset against the all conquering New Zealanders, should they meet as anticipated, in the semis.

Hello there from Singapore! Home to the 2011 Netball World Championships… as well as a mean Black Pepper Crab!

If you’re reading this post then I daresay you have an interest in either (or both) netball or Singapore! Where to start… let’s start with the netball.

The official opening ceremony kicked off with a bang yesterday; a vast array of colours and noise, with supporters from all competing nations in full flight and voice. In particular, and of immense enjoyment to the remainder of the crowd, were the supporters of netball minnows Botswana. Despite their world standing in rankings, the fans were full of song and dance throughout and rode their teams opening match (post opening ceremony) with gusto and an infectious passion.

Inside sources of Sportsnet (a.k.a Mr and Mrs Geitz) confirmed that the Diamonds were overwhelmed by the showing of fans, moved to the point of tears for some, as their last encounter on the world stage was the Commonwealth Games in India with very few fans in attendance.

The competitions host, Singapore, has not failed to impress Sportsnet and their guests. Raffles has been a popular spot to visit and enjoy a ‘high tea’, or for those a little more game – the Long Bar and THE original Singapore Sling!

“Raj”, the local driver and guide for the Sightseeing tour was a hit with all guests and many, on return, seeking out Sportsnet representatives to ensure ‘the funny man’ would be taking the group elsewhere during their stay…

All in all, the start of the tournament couldn’t have gone any better – except of course for the official posters bearing our own, but non-competing, Sharelle McMahon – and the Sportsnet group and primed, pumped and ready to support our Diamonds as they take on Northern Ireland tomorrow…

In the words of the locals…. Yaaaaaaaa SIMMMMMMM!

A.k.a “Cheers”