Netball
27 September, 2024
McIntyre has standout year
Harrow Balmoral, 17-and-under, and A-grade netballer Tara McIntyre had an outstanding breakout season for the club in senior netball.
In the 17-and-under netball, Tara McIntyre won the league's best and fairest and shot 361 goals in 17 games. The club just fell short to eventual premiers Pimpinio in the preliminary final.
McIntyre shot a game-high 38 goals against Laharum.
In A-grade, she shot 188 goals in 16 games at goal attack and played wing attack at times earlier in the season.
Her best game was 25 goals in their win against Pimpinio in round eight.
McIntyre also represented the Horsham District Football Netball League, played at the state titles in Melbourne, and made the talent identification program to try out for the state team.
Following the league's best and fairest, McIntyre said it was exciting and highlighted how her netball improved in 2024.
"It was very exciting and nice to know all my hard work and the team's hard work paid off, so winning was very special," McIntyre said.
When asked what has improved her netball this year, McIntyre highlighted confidence.
"My confidence has improved, especially in A-grade, as it's the next level up, and you have to take the hits, do all the work yourself, and make a name for yourself," McIntyre said.
"I feel that I have become mentally stronger, and I just want to keep improving my netball skills, leadership and attitude."
Being recognised in the talent identification program was a special feeling for McIntrye; she learned a lot from the experience.
"It was my first time going down to Melbourne and playing against a bunch of different girls, and it was a great experience," McIntyre said.
"It was next level, and you try to take as many tips as possible, even if you don't make it far.
"I learnt how to be a leader on the court and use your voice more, which is important in netball."
Also during the season, McIntyre was awarded the Blue Ribbon Spirit of Netball Award in round six.
"It was a special award, and I have my teammates to thank for it," McIntyre said.
"I love playing with them every week, and they make netball enjoyable."
Playing two games back-to-back didn't phase McIntyre; she enjoyed it and reflected on the A-grade win against Pimpinio.
"I enjoyed playing two games straight up as I love netball and doing it as much as I can, and I have a lot to work on for next year," McIntyre said.
"It was also great to have my first A-grade win. All the girls were up and about, and as a shooter, you want to make sure you hit every goal and make it as close as possible. I tried to put up as many as I could."
McIntyre is also a talented tennis player and will spend the summer playing for Central Park in the pennant competition, which begins on October 5. They will look to go one better this season after being runners-up to Horsham Lawn in March.