Vixens duo ready for first SSN finals campaign

Having been elevated to the squad as a permanent injury replacement for Liz Watson last year, Hannah has experienced both the highs and lows that Super Netball has to offer and is looking forward to the upcoming finals series.

“There’s a lot on the line but I’m just super excited to be a part of it. Rebounding from last year it is really cool to be in a successful team, and I know that we’ve done so much work to make sure that we are the fittest, strongest team in the competition and put us in a good spot to take it out,” she said.

“Last year has probably given us more determination to get to the finals this year and I think it’s been a massive effort from the group to come back from that.”

Set to play in front of a home crowd on Saturday night against West Coat Fever, both players are eager to step out on court at John Cain Arena and soak up the atmosphere.

“I think having a home final is awesome. Our crowd is really the 11^th player out on court and it is really valuable for us, we have the most amazing fan base out there,” Hannah said.

Rahni made her debut at Nissan Arena in Queensland in Round 4 2021 during Victoria’s lockdown, and while it was a moment she will never forget, she is thrilled to be stepping out on court at home with the backing of her family and friends in the crowd.

“It means everything to play at home after having two years not being able to play in front of my family. My family would come to absolutely any netball game let alone an SSN final, so to be able to host that here in Melbourne I think the crowd is going to be very important for us,” Rahni said.

“I’m extremely excited. It’s my first finals series, I’m just looking forward to being in the dress.”

Although she has no SSN finals experience, Rahni is hoping to draw upon her experience from the Victorian Netball League and National Championships heading onto the big stage.

“I think it’s a whole different ball game. I know growing up, I went through the Victorian system and had finals series’ with Nationals and VNL. It’s a real dog fight, it’s where everyone really puts their best foot forward and I’m excited to challenge myself against the best of the best,” she said.

When it comes to preparation heading into the semi final, this weekend Rahni and Hannah are trying to keep things as normal and consistent as possible.

“Maintain the same rhythm. I think there is always going to be a little bit of change when it comes to finals preparation, but we finished minor premiers for a reason, so we don’t want to change too much but hopefully just elevate what we are doing,” Rahni said.

“I think you’ve got to keep it pretty similar to the season. It’s worked for us to approach the game cool, calm and collected,” Hannah explained. “I think doing your own personal routine before a game is really important to keep everything consistent.”

Although it has been a grind the past couple of weeks, there is no denying the belief this side has and Hannah is keen to show exactly what the Vixens are made of when they hit the court on Saturday.

“I’m looking forward to showing everyone our best netball. I think the last couple of weeks, although we have won it has been a bit of a grind and some would say ugly netball, but that’s the beauty of our group - we are able to win in so many different circumstances.”

“I think this finals series we’re super excited to put everything together and go out with a bang, and potentially get our hands on the trophy,” she said.

Book your tickets for the major semi final now