What club do you currently play for?
Brisbane Barracudas

How old were you when you started playing water polo and which club did you fist play for?   
I was 10 when I first started playing and that was for Tugun Water Polo Club.
You are regarded as on of the quickest players in the current game.

Where did your swimming attributes come from?
I did a little bit of swim training through primary school but was actually never that great and never swam competitively. My swimming definitely improved after I started playing water polo.
My Dad was also very good at breaststroke though I’m not sure I can thank him much as I am pretty terrible at it. Give me freestyle any day!

How many sessions do you do a week?
In full training, will we usually do 11-12 sessions per week. This consists of 3-4 gym sessions, 2-3 swim sessions and the rest ball skill, tactics and game sessions.

What’s your highlight to date in water polo?
I have been fortunate to have a few so far. Competing at the 2004 Athens Olympics was definitely a highlight for me. Also being able to play in the final of the Melbourne World Champs in front of a home crowd was great even though we didn’t come away with the win. But I think the biggest highlight so far is being part of the team that won the World Cup in Tianjing, China in 2006.

What are your interests outside of the pool?
I love catching up with family and friends when I get the chance. Also just anything to relax, I love going to the beach or the movies.

You are regarded as on of the best players in world by being named in many ALL STAR teams.
What do you attribute this success to?
Well I have had some great coaches along the way so of course that is very important.
I think one of the biggest things is just to work hard. Pure talent will only get you so far. You have to be willing to do the hard yards and continue to work on the things that you need to improve, not just those you are already good at.

Explain the feeling of playing for the AUSSIE STINGERS?
It’s amazing! We have such a good feeling and culture among the team right now that you know you’re part of something great. And any chance you can get to represent your country is an awesome feeling!


Is it difficult being away from friends and family for so long when you tour with the STINGERS?
It can be difficult being away from them for so long but it you do get used to it. Having very understanding and supportive family and friends makes things a lot easier as well.
Then you also have the other girls that you’re travelling with who are in them same situation… we are kind of like our own big happy family!

What would your words of inspiration be to up and coming juniors here in Aus?
Keep working hard but make sure you always enjoy what you’re doing. In the end, it’s a game, it’s meant to be fun!

Who would you rate as the,” best player you have ever played against/with?”   
It’s hard to name just one… I have had the opportunity to play with and against many great players and the level of international water polo at the moment is that good that you can’t take anyone lightly.

How long do you see yourself playing water polo for?   
That I don’t know. I honestly haven’t thought much past the Beijing Olympics. They are the main focus right now so I’m just concentrating on that and not thinking of much after it.

Who is your inspiration to achieving so much in Water polo so far?   
I think my parents would definitely have to be my biggest inspiration. They have been there every step of the way, encouraging and supporting me no matter what.

What is the STINGERS schedule like leading up to Beijing?
The squad leaves for a European tour soon and is back in early February. We are then home for most of the National League season after which our squad will be reduced to 16 players and 2 reserves. We will then have training camps and tours before the final team is announced in June.