First Windows Magic Training All Go
 The First Windows Magic Team are underway for the 2012 Season. All twelve players have been faced with a range of activities over two days in Tauranga. This was the first time that the team had trained at TECT Arena at BayPark and saw praise from Laura Langman who is delighted that the team are able to train in the venue that they will play in for the first time.
"We are all really keen on the Pre Season event being held here(March 2-4) and how good to have our fans get to see it all," said Langman. "But on with the training."
As one bystander commented they all look pretty tanned, taut and terrific, however, Elias Shadrock was looking on the pale side given her arrival from Scotland. "I think I am even paler than Laura,"she said with a glint in her eye. Shadrock returns to the team following a year out in 2011.
Team building has been very much included in the two day training programme.
Aussie bolter for Magic
 Press Release October 30, 2011
Micourter Khao Watts’ first visit to New Zealand proved a memorable one when she clinched Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s import spot for next year’s ANZ Championship netball competition.
Recommended by Peta Scholz, Magic’s import of the last two years, and former Australian international Rebecca Sanders, Watts dipped into her own pocket to attend a final trial on October 15, invited players being given a final opportunity to press their claims for the last four spots in the team.
On top of video footage and the advice of Scholz and Sanders, Magic coach Noeline Taurua liked what she saw of the robust Australian style of play on attack from Watts, particularly her feeds into the circle. She felt this was a key area where Magic needed strong back-up.
Watts, 23, completes the Magic’s playing roster for 2012 after Arahi Wall, Elias Shadrock and Jess Waitapu were also confirmed earlier this week.
Hailing from Adelaide, Watts brings a more than useful pedigree to Magic, having represented South Australia at under-17, under-19 and under-21 age-group level. She has been playing in the State Premier League Subway Cup competition with the Woods Panthers Netball Club since 2008 and also competing in the Australian Netball League since 2009.
Watts said she had always been hopeful of taking the next step up into the trans-Tasman league and this opportunity had come as a very pleasant surprise.
``This does feel a bit like a bolt out of the blue and I wasn’t expecting the opportunity to come up how it did,’’ she said.
``I am of course extremely excited about the opportunity to be a part of such a fantastic franchise as the Magic. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming and supportive so I know that moving over to New Zealand will not only be a great step for my netball career, but I know I will thoroughly enjoy living there.’’
Watts has a scholarship at the South Australian Sports Institute where she has been studying a double degree -- Bachelor of Education/Bachelor of Arts and working as a retail assistant.
Conscious of developing the talent within its own boundaries, Taurua is pleased Bay of Plenty and Waikato players have a strong presence in Magic after both regions produced standout performances at the recent national championships.
Magic 2012 presents an even mix across each third of the court, depth in a number of positions and versatility.
Magic squad 2012:
Leana de Bruin, Laura Langman, Erena Mikaere, Julianna Naoupu, Elias Shadrock, Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick, Jess Tuki, Irene van Dyk, Jess Waitapu, Arahi Wall, Khao Watts, Casey Williams.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic add three more to roster
Press Release October 28, 2011
Talented midcourter Elias Shadrock is determined to make the most of a second opportunity after cementing her spot in the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic netball squad for the 2012 ANZ Championship.
The Magic have now confirmed 11 of their roster for next year, Shadrock joined by shooter Arahi Wall, a member of this year’s team and newcomer Jess Waitapu. All three pressed their claims with standout national regional seasons.
Shadrock, a former New Zealand Secondary Schools captain and New Zealand under-21 team member, was part of the Magic set-up in 2009-10 but overlooked this year. A player of huge potential, Shadrock has no doubts she is wiser for the experience of recent years and excited by her recall.
``To get back in this team after missing out last year means the world to me and again the feeling is amazing,’’ she said.
Straight out of school when she was first selected, Shadrock said more court time at club and regional level and coaching assistance had helped grow her game and confidence.
``I think the one thing different from the first time I made the team to now is, not only do I want to be in this team but I want to be on court for this team and know I can be playing at this elite level,’’ she said.
``I guess the positive of being dropped is you look back on things you did in the team and things you could have done better. You learn from it, so what I am going to do differently is learn from my experiences and learn from my mistakes.’’
After a packed domestic season which included the Lois Muir Challenge, Super 12 and Hamilton City club commitments and Waikato under-21s, Shadrock put the finishing touches on sealing a spot in the Magic with a strong presence throughout the national championships for the Waikato senior team. On the back of a great season and maturing team, Waikato were top performers at the national champs in winning promotion back into the top echelon for next year.
Shadrock has taken a break from netball to refresh and joined her rugby-playing partner in Scotland for two months where her training and conditioning will continue before returning home.
Wall, 26, enhanced her re-selection with a string of quality performances for Bay of Plenty at the national championships. The willowy shooter showed her growing maturity with a strong presence under the hoop, top shooting percentages and a calm resilience as the Bay produced a third place finish, their best result in recent years.
Her efforts were duly noted with selection in the national champs tournament team.
``I am very happy,’’ she said. ``It was definitely a goal to get back in the Magic team and after the year I have had, this has just topped it off.’’
``The NPC campaign has boosted my confidence and I just want to train as well as I can and try and stamp my mark next year. I am just eager to learn more.’’
Jess Waitapu, 22, who can cover goal attack/wing attack, was another to leave her mark for Waikato. A creative and instinctive attacker with clever playmaking ability, Waitapu is a classy operator with tons of potential.
``This was a big surprise,’’ she said of making the Magic.
``I had ambitions but I didn’t really expect to get in.’’
Waitapu has been in the top Waikato side for three years and prior to that the under-21s for four years. She also played alongside Magic captain Laura Langman at Hillcrest High School.
``To get into a team of this caliber with some of the best players in the world is pretty cool,’’ she said.
Magic have one spot to fill with 11 of the squad now confirmed.
Magic squad 2012:
Leana de Bruin, Laura Langman, Erena Mikaere, Julianna Naoupu, Elias Shadrock, Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick, Jess Tuki, Irene van Dyk, Jess Waitapu, Arahi Wall, Casey Williams.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Four Players To Go
Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic Coach Noeline Taurua has been busy helping out as the Assistant Coach of the Silver Ferns and still has the three test series in Australia to complete as part of her chance to get the inside look into the nations top side.
In the midst of all this Noeline is running a development day for payers from the two Regions, who both experienced success at the recent Lion Foundation Netball Champs in Porirua. Bay of Plenty Gold finished third in the country and Waikato finished sixth following their promotion relegation win. "Having both teams in the top six is just awesome," said Taurua. "This shows that we have some good work going on underneath and while many of those we will look at will be young it is good for our future."
It is hoped that the four players for the places left will emerge over the next couple of weeks.
De Bruin back with Magic
 Press Release June 23, 2011
The opportunity to be based at home has lured Silver Ferns defender Leana de Bruin back to Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic for the 2012 ANZ Championship netball season.
With a number of franchises chasing the classy defender’s signature, de Bruin’s home base in Cambridge and family were major reasons behind this season’s joint Most Valuable Player winner choosing to return to Magic after two seasons with Southern Steel.
``The fact that I live up here in Waikato and my little toddler were definitely deciding factors,’’ de Bruin said.
``Caleb is 20 months old and he’s just starting to realise when I go away, so I basically just didn’t want the amount of traveling and being away from home that I would have to do if playing for someone else. The thought of playing at home was fantastic.’’
Despite the Steel having a patchy 2011, de Bruin, 33, was a standout throughout, enjoying a stellar season and sharing the MVP award with Queensland Firebirds’ Natalie Medhurst. De Bruin delivered consistently strong performances to finish first overall in the competition for defensive rebounds and equal second for intercepts.
``I’m not getting any younger but I’m just really enjoying playing at the moment and I think I’ve got a good balance between motherhood and netball which has been working well for me. Hopefully, I can take that through to next year,’’ de Bruin said.
``It’s an exciting opportunity. Magic have made the semifinals for the past four years and everyone aspires to win the competition so it’s just awesome to be closer to home and being back with some of my good old mates.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Tod out of Magic mix
 Press Release June 20, 2011
Well-performed defender Jodi Tod has ruled herself out of the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic mix for the 2012 ANZ Championship netball season.
With the Magic since the inception of the trans-Tasman competition in 2008 following five years in the fore-runner National Bank Cup (with the Canterbury Flames and Flyers) and an off-season stint in the UK league, the popular Tod feels it’s time for a break.
With Tod, 30, due to be married in the middle of pre-season training, in January, and growing daughter Emerson nearly 13, she felt personal issues deserved to take precedence.
``I don’t want to call it retirement because you never know what’s going to happen and at this stage I’m just having some time out, some family time and some me time,’’ Tod said.
``I don’t think I would have been able to enjoy the wedding as much and we want to go on our honeymoon straight away whereas if I carried on playing, we’d probably have to wait until the end of the year.’’
Tod’s versatility in being able to play all three defensive positions made her a valuable asset and she was often the unsung hero of a standout defensive line in recent years.
More recently, her legacy was probably at goal defence where she shared the in-circle defensive duties with Casey Williams. A strong work ethic, exceptional skills in the close quarters and the ability to snaffle the low ball were hallmarks of Tod’s hard working style, the perfect foil to Williams’ aerial prowess.
``I have loved every season and no doubt I will be at every home game watching the girls next year and still have some involvement in some way,’’ she said. ``As a competition it has continued to grow and every year has been a big step up as teams try to find different ways of becoming fitter, faster and stronger. It has been great for netball.’’
A personal highlight for Tod was making it through to last year’s Grand Final against the Adelaide Thunderbirds. On the way, Magic played their match of the season to eliminate the NSW Swifts in the Preliminary Final before stumbling in the final.
``That Swifts game would have been one of our best games,’’ she said. ``It was such an up and down season for us as a team but when it counted we really pulled together and got through to those semifinals and finals spots.’’
Tod will continue to play regional netball for Bay of Plenty, who will compete in Division 1 of First Grade for the first time at the national championships.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic pipped at the post
A late charging Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic were denied a spot in the grand final when pipped 43-42 by Northern Mystics in the Preliminary Final in Hamilton on Sunday.
Contesting their first Finals Series, a big second quarter from the Mystics, provided the impetus for the win. It was the only quarter the Mystics won as Magic kept coming back at them but superior shooting percentages, with Maria Tutaia having an outstanding game, proved the difference in the end.
In the history of the competition, Mystics are the only team to have finished fourth in the regular season and advance to the grand final where they will meet the unbeaten Queensland Firebirds, in Brisbane, next Sunday.
Finishing second in the regular season, Magic laid the ghost of last week’s disaster against the Firebirds to rest but just lacked the little touches to get across the line against Mystics.
Magic welcomed back hard-working wing defence Peta Scholz, the Australian import being sidelined for the past two weeks with a knee in jury while Frances Solia, who had much of her season derailed by illness got the nod at wing attack. There were no surprises from the Mystics, talented teenager Kayla Cullen taking her place at goal defence after being troubled by a calf injury.
Magic made a perfect start playing patient, error-free netball as they secured the first three goals. Magic’s back three of Casey Williams, Jodi Tod and Scholz were impressive in slowing down the Mystics on attack. Threatening goal shoot Cathrine Latu was well-contained, having to wait 7-1/2 minutes before scoring her first goal but Tutaia picked up the slack, her radar well-honed to keep the visitors in touch.
At the other end, goal attack Julianna Naoupu provided impetus in the playmaking role for shooter Irene van Dyk, who was all poise under the hoop as Magic went to a 13-9 first quarter lead.
With irrepressible captain Temepara George leading the charge, Mystics lifted their intent on the resumption, scoring four goals on the trot to draw within one. Sparkling play on attack and slick interplay under the hoop helped them hit the lead for the first time with Tutaia’s finishing from long range pivotal.
Things became more difficult for Magic as they struggled to penetrate the Mystics suffocating midcourt defensive wall. Jess Tuki replaced Solia in Magic’s attacking line as fortunes ebbed and flowed before Mystics grabbed the initiative. Showing more spark in their play, the visitors achieved a nine-goal turn-around as they went to the main break with a 25-20 lead.
With Magic’s shooting falling away in the second quarter, Jamilah Gupwell replaced Naoupu for the second half as the home team stormed out of the blocks. The third quarter became a real battle of attrition, huge defensive pressure from both teams dictating the course of the match.
Cullen and Anna Scarlett proved a real thorn for Magic’s shooters while Williams and Tod had their moments at the other end. Tutaia continued to be the main point of difference with an exemplary showing under the Mystics post before the home staged a late quarter rally.
An injured Gupwell did not last long with Naoupu re-entering the fray as strong contributions from Williams, Scholz and Laura Langman kept Magic in the frame, Mystics keeping their noses in front 35-31 heading down the home straight.
In a last throw of the dice, Magic introduced teenaged defender Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick at goalkeeper with Williams going out to goal defence. The home team threw everything into a pulsating final quarter, slowly clawing back the deficit in a frantic and willing final quarter.
Mystics did just enough to hold them out -- a couple of crucial intercepts from the ever-prominent Cullen and Scarlett – and the overall play from an impressive Tutaia sealing a spot in the grand final.
Second life gives Magic another shot at redemption
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic will look to reap the benefits of a second life when they play Northern Mystics in the ANZ Championship netball preliminary final in Hamilton on Sunday.
The chance to take the direct route to the grand final evaporated when Magic were clinically dissected 50-39 by a red-hot Queensland Firebirds in the major semifinal earlier this week. Finishing runners-up in the regular season earned Magic a much-needed second life for the sudden-death showdown against the high-flying Mystics, on a roll at the moment and looking to deliver the killer blow to a wounded Magic.
``We are fortunate that we had the two lives and we’ve got another opportunity,’’ Magic coach Noeline Taurua said.
``If we didn’t have another opportunity to redeem ourselves, then it would have been a very unhappy way to finish the season.’’
The winner of the all-Kiwi clash will meet Queensland Firebirds, currently enjoying a week off, in the grand final in Brisbane on May 22.
Taurua is finding it hard to put a finger on the exact cause of the capitulation against Firebirds but said the team’s preparation had been good leading into the match. Not inclined to push the panic button, Taurua however, has little time to right her listing ship.
Magic and Mystics have taken a win each from their local derby clashes this season but Taurua conceded the Auckland-based franchise would start Sunday’s clash as favourites. Mystics have finished their most successful season strongly, including making their first finals series and winning for the first time in Australia.
Their impressive win over the well-credentialed NSW Swifts in the minor semifinal last week legitimised their claims as worthy title contenders.
The ability to rebound mentally from their Firebirds’ meltdown and the possibility of being without hard-working wing defence Peta Scholz for a third successive week are the major obstacles facing Magic. Minor knee surgery cleared Scholz of any major damage but also with a non-playing proviso of 10 days. That 10 days ends on Sunday.
``At this stage I’m not counting on her,’’ Taurua said.
``It’s a tricky situation to deal with because you can’t go into survival mode and change your whole game plan….we just haven’t got the time to do that.
``It’s now all about executing better than we did against Firebirds and going back to belief, faith, confidence and those sort of things…..things that you’ve worked on throughout the year, so just revisiting a lot of that stuff.
``Everybody felt we weren’t up to par as a team and as individuals and we all went missing in action at the same time. We had sporadic surges but they were only very minimal and it’s about doing things a whole lot better.
Credit needs to go to the class of Firebirds and the pressure that they put us under.’’
With nearly half of her team – Julianna Naoupu, Jess Tuki and Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick – having regular court-time for the first time this season, Taurua said it had been a steep learning curve.
``They’re learning on the job and whatever anyone thinks, semis and finals are totally different, it changes things and you have to be realistic about where they have come from,’’ she said. ``The total package often doesn’t happen in a season, particularly when it’s their first.
``We all know what it’s about, if we don’t perform, we don’t go through. And we’re working hard towards making sure we all turn up on the day….physically, emotionally, mentally, the whole works. It’s in our hands and the desire needs to be there.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Firebirds too hot for Magic
 A rampant Queensland Firebirds spoiled Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s hopes of a home grand final with a comprehensive 50-39 win in the major semi-final on the Gold Coast on Monday.
The match-up between the top two ANZ Championship teams turned into a one-sided contest as Firebirds converted a strong start into a completely dominant outing.
Courtesy of their double-life, Magic get another chance to make the grand final when they host Northern Mystics in the preliminary final at Mystery Creek, in Hamilton on Sunday (May 15).
In a largely forgettable performance where nothing went right, Magic have little time to turn around their fortunes for the match against their northern neighbours. The main area of concern was the attack line which was completely outplayed by an uncompromising Firebirds defensive effort, the home team playing in their first finals series like seasoned pros.
In the absence of Peta Scholz, Magic presented with a rearranged defensive line-up, Jodi Tod slotting in at wing defence, Casey Williams at goal defence and Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick at goalkeeper. There were no surprises for the Firebirds, who went with the familiar of recent weeks.
Magic made a strong start defensively but on attack struggled to hit the top of the circle, leaving Irene van Dyk and Julianna Naoupu on the back foot and heavily marked under the post.
The choice of double-marking towering shooter Romelda Aiken left dangerous goal attack Natalie Medhurst to roam free as she expertly set up play in the Firebirds circle. The home team raced out to a 9-2 lead as Magic failed to leave their mark on attack.
Defensive pairing Laura Geitz and Clare McMeniman made life difficult for Magic under the hoop with important steals and keeping scoring opportunities to a minimum. Magic began to settle towards the end of the quarter to trim the deficit as Firebirds went to the first break with a 12-8 lead.
The positional switching of van Dyk and Naoupu did not arrest Magic’s problems on attack, the visitors let down by poor execution and the inability to penetrate going forward. Geitz and McMeniman continued their disruptive defensive presence, leaving Magic few options as they filled up the spaces while also picking off intercept ball.
Chinks also appeared at the other end, free-flowing ball offering Medhurst and Aiken plenty of opportunities, as the Firebirds score ballooned out to a 10-goal advantage.
Remedial action for Magic came in the form of Jamilah Gupwell replacing Naoupu at goal attack, Williams going back to goalkeeper, Tod to goal defence and Tone-Fitzpatrick to wing defence with five minutes to go before halftime.
The changes helped stem the Firebirds flow but with the home team having 11 more attempts at goal and key weapon van Dyk restricted to just six goals from seven attempts, the figures made grim reading for the visitors, the home team going to the main break handily placed at 23-16.
Magic continued to chase on the resumption, battling against the Firebird juggernaut which rolled relentlessly on. Defensively there was frustration against the expert feeding to the 1.96m Aiken while on attack it proved a titanic struggle with the shooters starved of ball.
The injection of Frances Solia did little to turn Magic’s fortunes, the attacking line out-muscled and over-powered by the relentless defensive pressure. With Geitz having the wood on van Dyk, Gupwell was the one shining lining, converting 13 goals from 13 attempts but there was no stopping the rampant Firebirds who rolled into three-quarter time well in control at 39-26.
Magic reverted to their original defensive line-up for the run home but the visitors continued to be frustrated and despite winning the last quarter, it was all too little too late.
Scholz cleared to play
 Press Release May 8, 2011
Crack Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic defender Peta Scholz has received the all-clear to resume playing in the ANZ Championship netball finals series.
Magic feared the worst when Australian import Scholz re-injured the same knee two weeks ago which had ended her 2010 season following a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. However, the surgeon who performed the knee reconstruction gave Scholz clearance on Sunday after keyhole surgery on Thursday revealed no major damage.
Magic will not include Scholz in their line-up for tomorrow night’s major semi-final against Queensland Firebirds in Brisbane having completed their preparations assuming she would not be available this weekend.
Scholz will be back with Magic on Tuesday, preparing for a preliminary final next weekend or if successful against Firebirds, the Grand Final a week later.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic aim for direct route
Press Release May 5, 2011
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic will be hoping history doesn’t repeat when they match-up against Queensland Firebirds in the major semifinal of the ANZ Championship netball competition on Monday.
Magic have reached the top-four play-offs each year since the inception of the competition in 2008, twice being the beaten finalists. However, a win against the in-form Firebirds would produce a significant first for Magic, of ensuring a direct route to the Grand Final and a week’s break leading up to that.
By finishing in first and second at the end of the regular season, Firebirds and Magic earned the bonus of the double-life system, meaning a second chance for the losers of Monday’s clash in Brisbane.
``The benefits of going straight through to the final are huge,’’ Magic coach Noeline Taurua said. ``It allows you the luxury of that extra week in the middle while the preliminary final is being played to prepare, while also easing the mental fatigue side of things and eliminating the travel factor.’’
Fifth place finishers for the previous three years of the competition, Firebirds have fashioned an impressive unbeaten 12-game record this season despite the loss of their highly-regarded captain Lauren Nourse to injury and will take some beating at home.
``I think any team’s beatable on the day and history has shown the previous semifinals to be unpredictable,’’ Taurua said. ``I don’t think you can go into these semifinals relying on any particular performance that has happened in the 12 weeks leading up to now.
``The stakes are higher and now you are getting the team who really wants to be there. If you go in there reserved, not firing or flat you’re going to get eaten and that is borne straight from experience.’’
Magic have been gaining momentum in recent weeks, the inclusion of Jess Tuki (wing attack) and Julianna Naoupu (goal attack) adding some real flair and creativity this season to back up the tried and true. But consistency is still the common catch-cry and that will be a key element for Magic across the four quarters, Taurua believing there is still room for improvement.
``We’re still coughing up the ball when it’s not necessary and we probably need to just tidy up the final execution of the ball in the attacking end,’’ she said.
Well-performed Magic wing defence Peta Scholz has undergone tests on a knee injury sustained against Adelaide Thunderbirds on April 24 and is awaiting the results which are expected in the next 48 hours.
Firebirds consistency over the regular season had put them a notch above the others in the run to the finals series, the Queenslanders stitching up the minor premiership with weeks to spare.
``They have developed a style which defines them – disciplined and well-structured on attack and defensively they are dogged and will go after anything,’’ Taurua said.
``They don’t deviate much from their plan.’’
Strong at both ends of the court, with shooters Romelda Aiken and Natalie Medhurst particularly impressive under the hoop at the attacking end this season and well-performed defender Laura Geitz patrolling at the other, there are few weaknesses in the slick Firebirds unit.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic cement second spot for finals
 Waikato/Bay of Plenty booked a date with Queensland Firebirds in the Major Semifinal after sealing second spot on the ANZ Championship netball table with a rousing 60-50 win over Central Pulse in Taupo on Monday.
Courtesy of finishing in the top two spots, Firebirds and Magic have the added bonus of a double life heading into the Finals Series.
Pulse played their part in a highly entertaining spectacle, farewelling outgoing coach Yvette McCausland-Durie with a brave challenge. They had a lot to thank Australian import Caitlin Thwaites for, the prolific shooter keeping her team in the game with an impressive outing.
But it was Magic who lifted their game impressively tonight. A blistering third quarter pushed them beyond the reach of the Pulse on the back of a great team effort spearheaded by stalwarts Irene van Dyk and Casey Williams.
In predictable line-ups, the only change for Magic was the giant Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick coming in at wing defence for regular Peta Scholz who was rested after tweaking a knee in the previous round.
In a lively opening, Pulse were left to rue their shooting percentages as both teams showed their intent with an open and pacey exhibition. Magic dazzled at times with their speed and flair on attack, Jess Tuki excelling with her pin-point feeding to the irrepressible van Dyk.
Often double-marked van Dyk relied on the play-making skills of goal attack Julianna Naoupu, the delivery of Tuki and Laura Langman and her own special qualities to ensure she nearly always ended up in close range of the post.
Despite having one more attempt at goal, Pulse were undone by inconsistent shooting. While Thwaites did her bit, Alanah Cassidy struggled against the imposing attention of Magic defenders Williams and Jodi Tod to return a meagre 25 percent success rate.
Sitting on a 93 percent success rate compared to 69 percent for Pulse ensured Magic took a 14-11 lead into the first break.
Pulse reaped the rewards after replacing Cassidy with Amber Bellringer for the second spell. Finding more space and movement on attack, Pulse excelled with the change as they matched Magic in most facets.
There was plenty of razzle dazzle in an action-packed second stanza, Pulse shoring up their defensive efforts to keep the Magic shooters honest. Thwaites proved a rock under the Pulse hoop, shooting everything that came her way as the visitors levelled the scores midway through the quarter.
Each team had their moments as fortunes ebbed and flowed before a late surge pushed Magic out to a 29-26 lead at the main break.
Coinciding with van Dyk and Naoupu switching shooting positions, Magic’s intensity lifted during a dominant third quarter. The defensive trio picked off a string of intercept ball while on attack, there were moments of brilliance as Magic put their foot down.
Magic created numerous turnover opportunities which they took full advantage of, van Dyk and Naoupu converting a faultless 18 attempts between them as the home team swept to a comfortable 47-36 lead at three-quarter time.
Both teams finished in style, Pulse refused to take a backward step as Magic showcased their full repertoire of flair, speed and finishing. With the game in the bag, Magic emptied their bench as they put the seal on second place.
No lack of motive for Magic
 Press Release April 28, 2011
The chance to cement second place should be motivation enough for Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic in their final round ANZ Championship netball match against Central Pulse on Monday.
Already assured a place in the top four for the Finals Series, a win for Magic, who will be playing in Taupo for the first time, would seal the runners-up spot behind the Queensland Firebirds and the bonus of the double-life system afforded the top two.
Magic are the only team to have reached the Finals Series every year since the inception of the competition in 2008 but Australian teams have won the trophy on all three occasions.
For now, coach Noeline Taurua is not looking any further than Pulse, who with three wins under their belt this campaign are celebrating their most successful season. They also have a habit of playing well against Magic.
Taurua was thrilled with Magic’s last outing against defending champions the Adelaide Thunderbirds, responding to criticism of recent disjointed performances with a dominant 19-goal win.
While acknowledging the contribution of her ``big three’’ – Silver Ferns trio Irene van Dyk, Laura Langman and Casey Williams, Taurua is at pains to point out she has been bedding in a new attack line this season and that has taken time.
``Recently our product may not have been as good as it could be but at the moment we’re still winning and our team unit is really strong,’’ Taurua said.
``At this time of the season, when the pressure is on, good team morale is priceless. Sometimes pressure can have a distracting influence but if anything it is working in the opposite for us in that we’ve formed a rock-solid tight team unit.
``Jess (Tuki) and Julianna (Naoupu) are learning on the job. Confidence is a huge thing and can be there one game and gone the next.
``At this stage I’m pretty proud of what the girls have done and where we sit. There has been big movement from individuals in our team and they’ve worked real hard to achieve that.
``We want to do well in this last game, get the two points and see what happens after that, instead of thinking too far ahead.’’
Patchy past performances against Pulse are not lost on Taurua who would like Magic to build on the momentum gained in the last round.
With many teams starting to feel the pinch from the condensed season, Taurua said she was thankful for the meticulous planning that had gone into Magic’s 2011 campaign.
The coach said the super rounds, which involved three games in seven days, were particularly draining, and more mentally challenging than physically.
``The players do get to a stage of being mentally fatigued and of just going through the motions, that’s just natural,’’ she said. ``The other teams have all felt the same and it’s hard to pick yourself up off that week, let alone the following week after that.
``The planning that needs to be done for that……. like when you have training, what type of training, the variety on that training to get them stimulated again, etc, is quite difficult.
``The planning that went into this season seems to be working out for us now and why the girls are feeling pretty good at the moment. That has been critical and noting that we haven’t had any injuries so far that have kept players off the court.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic post impressive win against Thunderbirds
 Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic jumped back into second place on the ANZ Championship table with an emphatic 55-36 win over Adelaide Thunderbirds, in Adelaide on Sunday.
The visitors overcame a slow start to record their fourth win in Australia and their first in Adelaide while restricting Thunderbirds to their lowest-ever ANZ Championship score.
A strong defensive effort was well backed up by a similar showing under the hoop, where Irene van Dyk enjoyed a stellar outing to post 43 goals from 47 attempts as Magic went on to over-run the young Thunderbirds team.
Magic ensured there were no home town heroics from Thunderbirds, well positioned to play a spoiling role as the visitors found some solid form at the business end of the season.
In the only surprise to either line-up, age-group player Madeleine Proud was given the start at wing attack for the Thunderbirds after a knee injury forced Emily Beaton’s withdrawal.
The first quarter was highlighted by a rash of turnover ball courtesy of a mix of good defensive work and some basic errors. It was the back three from Magic – Casey Williams, Jodi Tod and Peta Scholz, playing in her home city – who did a fine job of putting the squeeze on the home team’s attacking thrust and picking up plenty of turnover ball in the process.
Erin Bell was forced to shoulder the majority of Thunderbirds’ shooting load with key shooting weapon Carla Borrego well contained by Williams and restricted to just two goals through the opening quarter.
At the other end, Magic’s key shooter, the experienced van Dyk was a model of consistency as she helped propel the visitors out to a 10-7 first quarter lead.
Struggling with their transition on attack, Thunderbirds replaced Proud with Jo Sutton while Georgia Beaton came off the bench and into wing defence on the resumption.
However, the home team still had problems breaching the challenging defensive pressure exerted by Magic and the usually-reliable Borrego was clearly rattled. Growing in confidence, Magic found their flow on attack with midcourters Laura Langman and Jess Tuki providing a slicker and more accurate service to the circle.
Goal attack Julianna Naoupua came into her own, using her clever playmaking skills to combine expertly with van Dyk. Magic benefited from Thunderbirds’ high turnover rate and penalty count to push out to a 23-15 halftime lead.
In a bid to instil more movement on attack, Thunderbirds made mass changes for the second half, including the benching of Borrego. Bell moved into goal shoot and Bianca Giteau came off the bench to goal attack as initially the changes got the home team back in the groove. The teams went goal-for-goal, Bell chiming in with a strong effort under the hoop before Magic broke loose.
Clinically stepping up to another gear, Magic moved the ball fluently through court on the back of an impressive defensive effort. With the irrepressible van Dyk on the end of a well-tuned chain, the score continued to climb as Thunderbirds unravelled. Busting the game open, Magic bolted out to a comfortable 39-25 lead at the last break.
More changes, with Borrego lining up against van Dyk at goalkeeper for the run home, did little to help Thunderbirds cause as they continued to struggle against the well-drilled Magic.
Last gasp win for Magic
 It was far from vintage netball as Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic pulled off a battling but all-important 38-33 win over Southern Steel in Invercargill tonight.
Magic spoiled Steel’s unbeaten run at home this year and in the process cemented their place in the top four with two rounds of the regular season remaining.
In one of the lowest scoring matches ever in the competition, crucial late steals by Laura Langman and Peta Scholz and the finishing of Irene van Dyk under the hoop tipped the result Magic’s way.
It was not a pretty game, the low score highlighting the number of turnovers in a mistake-riddled match as the home team came within a whisker of producing a huge upset.
Magic got the early upper hand after steady and deliberate starts by both teams. The visitors were able to break down the usually reliable midcourt zone employed by the southerners, breaking it almost at will as easy progress was made to shooters van Dyk and Julianna Naoupu.
Coming back from illness, Frances Solia got the nod at wing attack for Magic, the nippy midcourter providing plenty of movement and vision on attack where she ruled the top of the circle with Langman. At the other end of the court, stifling one-on-one defence by Scholz and Langman killed off many of Steel’s attacking raids.
Confident with their through court play and accuracy under the hoop, Magic skipped out to a seven-goal lead, prompting a desperate move by Steel as Paula Griffin and Daneka Wipiiti switched shooting positions. However, it was all Magic early on, the visitors heading into the first break with a 12-7 lead.
Steel rocketed out of the blocks on the resumption, strong words from coach Robyn Broughton still reverberating as they set about turning the game on its head. In a complete reversal of fortunes, Steel lifted into another gear, going on to outplay Magic across all areas.
More movement from Natasha Chokljat and Liana Leota in the midcourt produced a chain reaction, almost instantly freeing up the circle as Griffin and Wipiiti held sway to pot shots from far and wide.
At the other end, Wendy Frew, Te Huinga Selby-Rickit and Leana de Bruin tightened up defensively to close down the spaces and shut out Magic’s attacking options.
Magic were reduced to just four goals as their possession dried up, Steel marching out to a 20-16 halftime lead in a stunning turnaround.
Changes were rung by Magic for the second half, Jamilah Gupwell replacing Naoupu and Jess Tuki taking over from Solia as the intensity and physicality reached new levels. Emotions ran high with every ball contested in a torrid exchange.
Magic had the better of proceedings, picking off vital intercept ball on defence while also finding more impetus on attack. Heavily marked by the well-performed Selby-Rickit and de Bruin, the irrepressible van Dyk rose to the occasion to extract herself from impossible situations to put the ball through the hoop.
Stretching out to a four-goal buffer, Magic looked poised to take off but Steel had other ideas. Finishing with a strong burst, on the back of Griffin’s shooting accuracy, the home team ensured a thrilling run home as they teams went to the last break with the scores all tied up at 28-all.
It didn’t disappoint, an absorbing final quarter producing long passages of play without a goal being scored as play swung wildly back and forth, frequently breaking down under the intense pressure before Magic’s experienced heads prevailed.
Battling win for Magic
 It was far from convincing but Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic scored a crucial 53-49 win over a tenacious Canterbury Tactix in Rotorua tonight.
The result kept Magic’s top-four play-off prospects alive after a courageous challenge from an injury-stricken Tactix. The visitors lost two of their starting seven – key defender Kasey Evering and integral midcourter Phillipa Finch – to serious knee injuries in the past week.
With nothing to lose, Tactix threw everything into the game but even a perfect shooting game from Donna Wilkins, who potted 30 goals from 30 attempts, could not completely shut out the home team.
It was a struggle all the way for Magic, who gained some momentum in the final quarter to hold on for a hard-fought win.
Magic enjoyed the greater share of possession in the opening stanza, feeding off Tactix turnovers to build a lead. The home team found a relatively easy passage through court, working the ball patiently until the gaps in the circle opened to shooters Julianna Naoupu and Irene van Dyk.
At the other end of the court, Magic’s defensive wall stalled Tactix attacking options. In the midcourt Laura Langman and Peta Scholz made life tough for the visitors flow and progress on attack, picking off vital turnover ball while the tall timber of Casey Williams and rising young defender Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick also claimed their share.
Magic made the most of their opportunities to grab a 15-11 lead going into the first break.
The injection of Frances Solia at wing attack for Jess Tuki and Jamilah Gupwell for Naoupu did little to enhance Magic’s fortunes as they bumbled their way through a forgettable second stanza.
Showing a lift in energy, Tactix came out full of intent with defenders Anna Galvan and Charlotte Kight hunting the ball at every opportunity with great success. At the other end, the visitors found their feet on attack, goal attack Anna Thompson showing her playmaking skills with plenty of movement and variety. Ably supported by Wilkins, the pair was at the forefront of the Tactix resurgence.
Even with wing defence Finau Pulu stood down for three goals for persistent infringing, the Tactix did not back down, posting the three goals on their own card while down to six players. Hesitancy and a host of unforced errors crept into Magic’s game as Tactix fought their way back to level terms as the teams went to the main interval locked at 25-all.
Magic reverted to the players who have served the team for most of the season as the intensity and physicality lifted during a testing third term. Both teams had their moments with neither able to make a decisive break in a stanza dominated by the whistle.
Magic had another disjointed quarter, the challenging defence getting the better of Naoupu while the visitors were crisper and more accurate through court. On the back of some fine play from Wilkins and Thompson, Tactix briefly found themselves in the lead before Magic finished with a flourish to keep the teams locked at 38-all heading down the home straight.
Van Dyk rose to the occasion in a battling fourth quarter on the back of greater composure, experience and patience from her team-mates as they wound up to a five-goal lead with 10 minutes to go.
The veteran shooter sunk the crucial goals as Magic finally lifted their urgency levels to put themselves in a winning position. Van Dyk finished with just the one miss, shooting 36 from 37 for a 97 percent success rate.
Magic look for redemption against Tactix
 Press Release April 13, 2011
An old fashioned pasting has triggered the right response to getting Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s ANZ Championship netball campaign back on track, according to assistant coach Marg Foster.
Magic’s seven-goal loss to NSW Swifts on Monday has created a bottleneck from second to fifth place on the points table where four teams are battling for three spots to make the play-offs. The unbeaten Queensland Firebirds are virtually assured of wrapping up the minor premiership.
Currently propping up fifth place, Magic, in the midst of playing three games in seven days, need to win their remaining four games of the regular season to cement a top-four position.
That starts with a potentially tricky assignment against the two southern franchises – Canterbury Tactix, in Rotorua tomorrow (Thursday) and Southern Steel in Invercargill on Sunday.
``I would say that we must win all our games now, and it may sound strange, but we probably work better like that,’’ Foster said.
``I think it’s good we have got our backs a little bit up against the wall because that will bring out the Magic spirit and that’s what we need. It’s not negotiable to be honest.
``I’ve been getting texts from the girls, saying they want to get out there and redeem themselves. That’s the feeling and that’s what we need…..fire in the belly.’’
After an indifferent season, the talent-laden Swifts came out blazing against Magic to turn their form around in a high-quality first half of netball. With a 14-goal lead, the visitors had pretty much done the job in the first 30 minutes before Magic salvaged some pride with a stirring second half fight back to halve the deficit.
``I just felt they wanted it more than us and they actually needed it more than us,’’ Foster summed up.
``It may sound a little ridiculous but that match was really quite season-defining for the Swifts and if they didn’t win, it could well have been the end for them of making the top four. So, those players really fronted up.
``I don’t think we were resting on our laurels because we
had trained really well and we were coming off a loss ourselves (against Firebirds) but they just wanted it more and played better. And I guess it was a good lesson for us.’’
Out of contention for the play-offs, Tactix and Steel still have the potential to make a name for themselves as spoilers. But Foster remains positive of Magic’s future in
the competition.
`` We’re not broken so we’ve got to promote the stuff that worked really well,’’ she said.
``We’ve had a really good debrief. We don’t need to say to the girls how poorly they played because they’re quite tough on themselves. They’re professional athletes and they’re there to do a job. They know the crack so it’s up to them to look at things objectively and do better.
``Over the next two games, in particular, it’s taking the stuff that we’re doing well and ensuring that we keep challenging ourselves as coaches and getting our product looking better.’’
After a tough season, there has been more anguish for Tactix who will definitely feel the effects of losing their key defensive import Kasey Evering and hard-working midcourter Phillipa Finch to season-ending knee injuries last week.
Relative newcomers to Magic’s attack line Julianna Naoupu and Jess Tuki were given a serious workout by the dogged Swifts defenders but it was something that was going to happen sooner or later and the pair will be better for the experience.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Rampant Swifts too good for Magic
 NSW Swifts turned on an outstanding first half to complete a crucial 53-46 win over Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic in Tauranga on Monday.
With both teams looking to consolidate a place in the top four, Swifts returned refreshed from a two-week break since their last outing on March 27 to produce an inspiring first half.
Magic could do little right against the rampant visitors, who dominated the opening 30 minutes before Magic roared back into life in the second 30. In the end, the 14-goal halftime deficit proved too big a hurdle for the home team despite their best efforts to redeem the situation with a powerful second half.
With a dozen internationals spread across both teams and so much riding on the match, the intensity was evident from the first whistle. Both teams got away to flyers, with slick accurate execution through court a feature as the sides went goal-for-goal early on.
Big defensive pressure began to play a prominent role as long passages of play ensued without a goal being scored, the Swifts back three of Sonia Mkoloma, Rebecca Bulley and Mo’onia Gerrard tightening the screws on Magic’s attackers.
There were no easy balls, Magic the first to show cracks in their armour as loose passing crept into their play. It gave the visitors some breathing space as they edged into the first break with a 14-10 lead.
There was no let-up on the resumption, the Swifts simply outclassing the home team across the court. Playing their best netball of the season, the talent-laden Swifts went into overdrive as they dominated in an outstanding display.
Changes to Magic’s defensive line had little effect as Swifts forced the home team into an error-strewn quarter. The visitors punished every Magic mistake, Catherine Cox and Susan Pratley all conquering in the Swifts circle with their movement, options and accuracy.
In a team full of quality, there was none better than the abrasive Gerrard, who gave Jess Tuki a torrid time. The tough wing defence was relentless as she picked up a clutch of intercepts and deflections in helping nullify Magic’s attacking options.
Having more than double the Magic’s attempts at goal, Swifts surged to a massive 32-18 lead at the main interval, in the process restricting the home team to just eight goals.
Magic opted for the fresh legs of Jamilah Gupwell and Frances Solia in an effort to inject some life back into the home team’s attacking momentum. There was a definite lift in Magic’s intensity, starting in the defensive line where teenaged sensation Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick made her mark with some telling steals. She was well-supported by Casey Williams and Peta Scholz as some of the timing went out of the Swifts game.
At the other end, Solia and Gupwell found their feet, adding more movement and a better supply to Magic shooter Irene van Dyk.
Magic had the satisfaction of winning the third quarter by four goals but the mountain remained a big one as the Swifts took a 42-32 advantage into the last break.
The home team continued their resurgence with a compelling final quarter charge but ultimately their run came too late and they were left to rue a poor first half.
Langman poised to join the 100 club
 Press Release April 7, 2011
Laura Langman is poised to join an exclusive club when Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic tackle NSW Swifts in ANZ Championship netball action in Tauranga on Monday.
The captain will become the second player in as many weeks to celebrate 100 matches for Magic but is hoping for a different outcome from that experienced by Irene van Dyk.
The fleet-footed Langman, 24, has gone on to fashion a stellar career since making headlines in 2003 when named in the Magic team for the first time while still at school. She has been an automatic selection ever since.
Inaugural centurion, van Dyk could not cap her milestone on a winning note when Magic went down by four goals to the Queensland Firebirds in a tight top-of-the-table clash in the latest round, something Langman is hoping to achieve.
``It’s very special moment and I’m really honoured to have been able to serve for such a long time with Magic,’’ she said.
`` In such a competitive competition, loyalty is sometimes put on the backburner so it’s a real credit to Magic that the environment that they’ve created is exceptional and certainly one that you’d have to consider seriously if you wanted to up and leave.’’
The Swifts clash marks a crucial phase for Magic during which they will play three games in seven days. In the condensed season, all teams experience a double-header round at some stage and for Magic the emphasis is on staying grounded as the race for play-off spots intensifies.
``Next week is going to be a huge week,’’ Langman said. ``The double header rounds, on top of travel, little niggles and just the intensity of the competition really adds to how hard it is.
``We have spent a lot of time on recovery and ensuring we transition properly from the warm weather in Australia back to here, where it’s starting to get a little bit colder, and making the risk of illness quite high.
``It’s the attention to detail. We want to get off to a good start and ultimately win all those three games. But it’s a matter of taking it game by game otherwise you’re at risk of getting a little bit overwhelmed by it all.’’
Despite the loss to Firebirds, their second of the season, Langman is pleased with the continued development of the team and in particular, the progress of newcomers Julianna Naoupu and Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick and the renaissance of Jess Tuki, who has finally found a home at wing attack.
``To be able to progress at the rate they have in a competition of this caliber is absolutely massive…..talk about learning on the job,’’ Langman said.
``All three have been phenomenal and have stamped their mark on the competition. They’ve come along in leaps and bounds and it is great for Magic and great for their future careers.’’
The talented Swifts have a similar challenging three games in seven days, starting with Magic. Sitting in fourth place on the table two points behind Magic, it is hard to get a gauge on their form as they are coming off a bye and have not played since March 27.
“For us it’s all about consistency, that’s what we’ve lacked all year,’’ coach Julie Fitzgerald said. We’ve had patches of brilliance and then ordinary patches, but we’re trying to make sure that everything we do at training is building towards that consistent performance.
“The team is aware of the fact that we’ve got ourselves into a situation where one more loss could potentially rule us out of the finals. They know that they’re playing in pressure situations, but they’re used to being there – that’s the beauty of this competition.”
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic rue lost opportunities
 Missed opportunities counted against Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic as they fell 53-49 to the Queensland Firebirds in Brisbane on Monday night.
In a closely-fought contest, the Firebirds recorded their ninth consecutive win while Magic slipped to their second loss of the ANZ Championship.
There were a lot of positive aspects for Magic, who could not celebrate Irene van Dyk’s 100th match for the franchise with a win, but showed enough in their play to give plenty of hope in the race to the playoffs.
Magic were unable to kick on from a potent third quarter when they trailed by just a goal, leaving them to rue a host of turnover opportunities to nail the match.
In a change of tact from recent outings, Casey Williams was started at goalkeeper to help nullify imposing 1.96m shooting sensation Romelda Aiken while Jodi Tod got her first start in three weeks, slotting in at goal defence. At the other end, Frances Solia got a start at wing attack for her first court time in several weeks after working her way back from illness.
Both teams produced steady and even starts, Magic getting the slight edge in the early exchanges with the back three of Peta Scholz, Tod and Williams putting the squeeze on the Firebirds attackers. However, turnovers helped the home team get back to level terms with Aiken playing a pivotal role under the hoop.
It was enough to give Firebirds a narrow 13-12 lead at the first quarter break.
Glitches in Magic’s attacking line gave the upper hand to Firebirds on the resumption, prompting coach Noeline Taurua to make changes. Williams went out to goal defence, youngster Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick from the bench to goalkeeper and Jess Tuki replaced Solia in the attack line.
The changes produced more zip on attack, shooter van Dyk remained the model of consistency while goal attack Julianna Naoupu lifted her work rate around the circle fringes. The visitors pegged back the deficit but the towering presence of Aiken remained the difference.
The beanpole shooter was inspiring under the Firebirds hoop and while Magic got their hands on plenty of turnover ball, they failed to convert a number of opportunities. The clinical finishing of the home team helped them to a 29-24 lead at the main interval.
Magic upped the intensity in a pulsating third quarter as they got the better of Firebirds. Showing better composure on attack and putting the ball into space helped the visitors claw back the deficit. With van Dyk being double-marked, Naoupu really stepped up with a big showing.
Tuki and Langman worked the ball industriously around the circle, picking their moments to thread the ball into the circle with pinpoint accuracy. Van Dyk and Naoupu were sure on the shot while at the other end Scholz and Williams continued to pick up valuable turnover ball.
Magic out-pointed their opponents 14-10 to leave the home team with just a one goal buffer as the Firebirds went to the last break 39-38 ahead.
Firebirds got the early jump heading down the home straight, blasting out of the blocks to go four ahead before Magic struck back. Naoupu continued her storming second half as momentum ebbed and flowed, the Magic closing the gap to one twice in the last five minutes.
But in the story of their match, could not convert enough of the numerous turnover opportunities that were presented. Firebirds weathered everything the Magic threw at them with Aiken’s 36 shots from 39 attempts a telling factor.
Van Dyk hits the 100 mark for Magic
 Press Release April 3, 2011
Familiar with rewriting netball records, Irene van Dyk will post another significant milestone when she plays her 100th match for Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic tomorrow (Monday).
Already the world’s most capped netballer and having logged over 100 caps for the Silver Ferns, the shooting sensation said playing tomorrow night’s top-of-the-table ANZ Championship clash in Brisbane was the perfect way to celebrate the achievement.
It couldn’t have been better scripted, the eagerly awaited trans-Tasman match-up pitting the unbeaten Firebirds against the second-placed Magic, who have lost once.
``It has been fantastic to have had the opportunity to stay at one franchise which has over the years played such a big part in my career,’’ van Dyk said.
``The supportive environment, the influence of coach Noeline Taurua and the lifetime friendships which have emerged have made this franchise a special part of my netballing life.’’
The long-serving van Dyk, 38, switched from the Capital
Shakers to Magic in 2003 during the (trans-Tasman forerunner) National Bank Cup era and has continued to commute from her Wellington home for the past nine seasons. She is the first Magic player to reach the 100-match mark.
Coach Taurua was fulsome in her praise of van Dyk’s longevity and substantial contribution to Magic.
``It’s a great achievement for Irene personally,’’ Taurua said.
``Nine years is a long time and it has been fantastic for the franchise in creating stability. Along with the other two long-servers, Laura Langman and Casey Williams, Irene’s presence has given the team consistency from year to year which has been of huge value.
``In the new professional climate such an achievement is extremely rare.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic newcomer leaves her mark
 Press Release March 31, 2011
Still in the infancy of her ANZ Championship netball career, powerhouse teenage defender Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick has ticked all the right boxes so far for Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic.
While it is no certainty the 1.88m baby of the team will make the starting line-up for Magic against Queensland Firebirds in Brisbane on Monday, Tone-Fitzpatrick, 18, has left no doubts about her enormous potential. In contrast to her strapping stature, Tone-Fitzpatrick is something of a gentle giant…..humble, softly spoken and slightly surprised at the speed of her progress.
``To be honest, I don’t think anyone knew who I was at the start. I’m just very glad that the coaches had the confidence to put me out there on court,’’ she said.
``Having the likes of Casey Williams and Peta Scholz in front of you makes the job a whole lot easier and I have really enjoyed my time out there.’’
Tone-Fitzpatrick has made the starting line-up for Magic’s last two outings against Melbourne Vixens and West Coast Fever, both producing prized wins over Australian opponents, the latter a rugged and battling last gasp one-goal win. From the custodian’s position of goalkeeper, Tone-Fitzpatrick played a strong hand in keeping the Magic in the game with a string of timely intercepts and rebounds.
The preparation for their tough upcoming challenge against Firebirds couldn’t have been better.
``It gave us another opportunity to adjust to the Aussie style of play and was a bit of a wake-up call for us in terms of our preparation for Firebirds,’’ Tone-Fitzpatrick said.
``It’s a tough ask coming up against any Aussie team but I’m very confident in the game plan our coaches have set in place. If we do our job, I definitely think we have the caliber of players to put it out there on court and give them a good game.’’
A former national secondary school representative and current New Zealand under-21 squad member, Tone-Fitzpatrick had her first involvement in the trans-Tasman competition last year with Northern Mystics while still a schoolgirl.
Seeing only one quarter of action during that time, Tone-Fitzpatrick was just happy to be involved and had no complaints with the Auckland franchise when they did not chase her signature this year.
Being in the same team as defensive diva Casey Williams has more than compensated.
``I count myself very lucky that I’ve been given the opportunity to even be in the same team as her let alone being able to play with her,’’ the budding defender said.
``I am really enjoying being with Magic and I just want to make the most of any chance I have to play with her and to learn from the best in the world.’’
The level-headed Tone-Fitzpatrick has a maturity beyond her years, remaining firmly grounded as she shuffles fulltime study (first year of a law degree) with the far from normal life of a semi-professional netballer. Living at home in Auckland, Tone-Fitzpatrick’s family has played a key role behind the scenes with her parents going the extra mile.
Mum has provided the taxi service which has notched up multiple commutes between Auckland and Hamilton/Tauranga and back to get Tone-Fitzpatrick to training.
``My parents have been great, I’m very lucky,’’ she said.
``My mum takes me everywhere I need to get to. She’s made huge sacrifices this year for me in terms of getting me to trainings and helping sort out my plans for the year. Magic management has also been great, very understanding of my commitments and helping me balance them out.’’
With restricted time to return home and then get to Brisbane for their next match, Magic opted to stay and prepare in Perth. Sporting their share of bumps and bruises after the tough Fever clash, the second-placed Magic have had four quality training days and head to Brisbane on Sunday for the top-of-the-table clash.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic sneak home against Fever
 Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s young guns were given a searching examination before clinching a last-second 42-41 win over West Coast Fever in Perth on Monday.
Magic remain the only New Zealand team to win on Australian soil, the result lifting them to three wins across the Tasman but more importantly cementing second spot on the ANZ Championship table.
The low score typified the defensive nature of the game where Fever, having their best outing of the season, threw everything they had at Magic. Old heads eventually prevailed for Magic with veteran shooter Irene van Dyk showing all her experience under extreme pressure with 25 goals from 26 attempts for a 96 percent success rate while skipper Laura Langman was an inspiring figure throughout.
Magic got off to a blistering start, the ever-improving young line-up retained from the previous week’s success against Melbourne Vixens and picking up where they left off.
The ball speed on attack had Fever back-pedalling as Magic launched impressive attacking raids which were duly finished off by Julianna Naoupu and van Dyk.
However, once settled, the home team battled their way back, creating turnovers and finding goal-scoring machine Caitlin Bassett with more regularity, who was well-supported by the pint-sized Leah Shoard.
At the other end, towering defender Susan Fuhrmann and her off-sider Ama Agbeze cut down the Magic’s options in the circle, tightening up significantly to pose problems. A more purposeful Fever had closed the game right up as Magic headed to the first break with a narrow 11-10 lead.
Magic had their work cut out during a robust second quarter from the home team after they exploded out of the blocks on the resumption. Improved through-court defence from the Fever stalled Magic’s attacking momentum while Bassett was provided a steady supply of ball as the home team rolled out to a five-goal lead.
Double-marked, van Dyk was given a torrid time under the hoop as the game lifted in its physical intent and Magic were forced to shoot from wide out. In the box seat, Bassett and Shoard just as quickly went of the boil, Casey Williams and the teenaged Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick rising to Magic’s aid with a dominant display in the rebounding stakes.
More accurate and patient on attack, centre Langman was instrumental in setting the tone. Magic steadied the ship as van Dyk had a strong finish to the quarter to get the jump on Furhrmann. Scoring the last five goals of the quarter, Magic worked their way back into the front, to lead 20-18 at halftime.
Two quick goals by Fever had the scores level early on as fortunes ebbed and flowed during a rugged and battling third quarter. Ashlee Howard took over at goal attack from Shoard to make an instant impression but Bassett was still struggling for consistency. Tenacious through-court defence by Fever made Magic work overtime in getting the ball goal-bound. Patience paid dividends while Williams and Tone-Fitzpatrick continued to haul in valuable rebound and intercept ball.
Another strong finish to the quarter helped Magic out to a 31-28 lead at three-quarter time.
Fever, again, were quick out of the blocks levelling the scores early on as the slug-fest continued right to the wire. Every opportunity became critical as the teams could not be separated, one mistake the difference between winning and losing.
Magic held a two-goal lead with five minutes to go but a dynamic intercept by Agbeze allowed Fever to level and it went goal-for-goal to the end, van Dyk sealing the nail-biter with seconds remaining.
Magic look to back-up home form
 Press Release March 24, 2011
Transferring their home form to Perth is the key focus for Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic ahead of Monday’s ANZ Championship netball outing against West Coast Fever.
Hitting their most consistent form of the season with a sparkling 12-goal win over the well-credentialed Melbourne Vixens in the latest round to leave them second on the table, Magic head offshore for the first time this campaign having already put that result to bed.
``We want to maintain the levels we hit against Vixens while also being aware that for our next game the conditions and other factors are totally different,’’ Magic coach Noeline Taurua said..
``You can get caught up in the moment too much… that moment (Vixens) happened last Monday and has now gone. So, even if we adopt the same game plan, we have to make sure we’re playing it in the moment and that will actually be playing against Fever. We certainly cannot expect to just roll on in and have the same things happen.’’
Perth has special memories for the visitors after Magic became the first New Zealand team to win on Australian soil in 2009, the second year of the trans-Tasman competition, and they have never lost to Fever. There has only been one other New Zealand success, also by the Magic, against NSW Swifts in last year’s play-offs.
But Taurua is taking nothing for granted, citing the ``killer flight,’’ time zone, extreme recent heat, Australian umpires and unusual game time (5.10pm local time) as making this match an entirely different proposition to playing the Vixens in Hamilton.
``They probably haven’t performed to their best this season,’’ Taurua said. ``Their midcourt is still finding its feet with new combinations but they are a very tenacious team. They just go, go, go and you have to earn all you get when playing them. You have to fight for everything and it’s certainly not clean-cut for us.’’
Fever are the second of four consecutive games against Australian sides for Magic and Taurua is satisfied with the team’s improved momentum and particularly the input of her young talent, Julianna Naoupu, Jess Tuki and Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick.
``We took a big step up against Mystics (March 13) but against Vixens we were much more consistent, the focus and commitment was more evident and that was really pleasing,’’ she said.
``With Juliana and Jess, two who are on our front line, every time they have taken the court they have improved. For only their third full games in the ANZ, the learning has been huge and they’ve been in real pressure situations. They’ve gone away and come back better each week and that is impressive.’’
The strapping Tone-Fitzpatrick has given Magic another option on defence. Playing just her third match for Magic against Vixens, the teenager was unfazed by the prospect of marking the lightening-quick skills and wizardry of Sharelle McMahon, responding with a strong outing.
`Because of their inexperience, each week they are going to cough up something different and you don’t know if that’s going to be a positive or a negative,’’ Taurua said. ``You don’t know fully what’s going to happen and that adds excitement. They’re at a stage where they don’t know everything and that can also work as a positive.’’
Magic will stay on in Perth to prepare for their following match against the high-flying Queensland Firebirds, in Brisbane on April 4.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic Outfox Vixens
 A blistering second half sealed a decisive 53-41 win for Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic over Melbourne Vixens in ANZ Championship netball action in Hamilton on Monday night.
Stung by their loss to Northern Mystics last week, Magic led from start to finish in an impressive all-round team effort as they hit their straps against the star-studded Vixens.
In the only real surprise in either line-up, 18-year-old defender Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick was given the nod at goalkeeper for Magic, her 1.88m frame seen as important in helping contain the threat of accurate 1.93m Vixens shooter Kate Beveridge. That left intercept expert Casey Williams to take care of the ever-dangerous Sharelle McMahon from the goal defence position.
Once the pair settled after a messy start, Magic being the main culprits in throwing the ball away, the teams went goal-for-goal in an even opening. Gradually, Magic’s strong defensive effort started hustling the Vixens’ forward line into error.
The home team made the most of their chances, the ever-energetic Laura Langman getting through a power of work and providing a series of pinpoint feeds to shooter Irene van Dyk. The gaps started opening in the Magic circle, exciting young shooter Julianna Naoupu playing a clever support role as a playmaker and ability to offload.
Showing more finesse on attack, it was Magic who crept out to a 16-11 lead at the first break.
The reaction from the Vixens was swift with three personnel or positional changes taking place on the resumption. Restricted to just five goals, Beveridge was benched, McMahon moved back to goal shoot, Tegan Caldwell took over at goal attack and returning after an injury-restricted 2010, Julie Corletto made her way to wing defence.
The response from the visitors was a lift in intensity, the changes adding some starch as they fought back strongly. McMahon and Caldwell gave the Vixens shooting circle extra zip, the speedy duo creating plenty of opportunities, McMahon at her menacing best with her creativity and accuracy.
Corletto also made a strong impression, the Vixens whittling the difference back to three before Magic finished with a flourish to hold a 29-25 lead at the main break.
In a tribute to van Dyk and Naoupu dominating the Vixens defenders, the visitors made more defensive changes for the second half and the unusual sight of England international Geva Mentor being benched. Bianca Chatfield moved back to her more accustomed goalkeeper position while the athletic Corletto slotted in at goal defence.
There was a decisive lift in tempo during a battling third stanza where fortunes ebbed and flowed. Vixens dominated for large patches before Magic found another gear. On the back of a sensational allround game from Langman, who was in the thick of all the action, the home team put a decisive mark on the match.
The back three of Tone-Fitzpatrick, Williams and Peta Scholz got their hands to a lot of deflected and intercept ball through their pressure while the Vixens became frustrated with a mounting penalty count as the home team shot out to a 39-32 last quarter advantage.
Bursting out of the blocks in the run home, Magic turned up the heat to produce a telling finish. Finding their rhythm on attack and producing a punishing team defence, the home team completely shut the door on the Vixens in a fitting farewell to longstanding Mystery Creek as a netball venue.
Nomad Tuki embraces new role
 Press Release March 17, 2011
Physically more suited to shooting or defending goals, Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s Jess Tuki looks to have found her netball niche in the most unlikely of positions.
Touted from a young age as an exciting talent, Tuki has struggled at elite level to leave her mark as a shooter where her early career was forged. After re-inventing herself last year as a defender, there was always a plan from coach Noeline Taurua to move her back to the attack end, and wing attack in particular.
And that is where she has found herself in recent weeks after illness confined regular Frances Solia to the sidelines. After a nomadic few years of switching roles and a lot of bench warming, Tuki is hopeful she has at last found her rightful position.
``It would be really nice to start specialising and wing attack’s the position that I definitely feel I have the best chance in,’’ she said. ``Typically, I’m not a wing attack’s build but I really hope I can make it my own position and master it.’’
A member of the Silver Ferns squad in 2006 and with three test caps to her name, Tuki, 23, has relished the opportunity to play two full games in the past two weeks, a first in her four-year ANZ Championship career where she has spent one year with Southern Steel and three with Magic.
``The Tactix (March 7) was my first full game and with that one we even had overtime so it was just great,’’ she said. ``It’s been a real confidence-booster to get full games and really feel that, yes, I can do this each week and this is where I want to be now every week.
``The first couple of games of the season where I didn’t play full games were sort of warming to the task. Now it’s an expectation, it is my job and role now, so no excuses….it’s a matter of get out there and do it.’’
While she is a work in progress with Magic also boasting another attacker light on experience in shooter Julianna Naoupu, Tuki, and the team in general, showed real signs of progress in their latest outing. There was more fluidity on attack than seen previously and a sense of the team finding some momentum despite a gut-wrenching one-goal loss to Northern Mystics in the last play of the game.
The lanky 1.85m Tuki is easily the tallest wing attack in the competition, occupying a role that is usually reserved for the short and nimble. But in time, she hopes her long limbs will become valuable assets in the role.
``I’m probably not as nippy and fast as some of the other shorter ones going around but I’m fortunate to have a bit of speed behind me so that and my height are good attributes,’’ she said.
``In netball, everything’s always changing and you get these tall wing defences now who can just smother the little wing attacks, so it’s helpful for me, to have another option there.’’
Tuki faces her biggest challenge to date when Magic meet the star-studded Melbourne Vixens in round six trans-Tasman action in Hamilton on Monday.
``We played quite a good game in patches against the Mystics. We let them come back but overall we had improvement in lots of things so we’re still feeling really confident. It’s just a matter of ironing out those lapses and little moments where we went off the boil,’’ she said.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
First win for Mystics over Magic
 Northern Mystics hit the lead for the first time with 15 seconds remaining to pip Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic 47-46 in a pulsating clash in Hamilton on Sunday.
In broke a seven-game losing streak for Mystics as they recorded their first-ever win against their neighbours, who seemingly had the match under control.
It was a cruel blow for Magic, who had led from the outset but failed to build on the numerous leads they established. They failed to completely shake a determined and battling Mystics, who benefited from a last-gasp deflection which an on-form Maria Tutaia potted for a
memorable win.
Magic paid little heed to the pre-match favouritism which leaned heavily towards the Mystics with a near-perfect start. Slick and almost seamless transfer through court was in direct contrast to Mystics, who were more laboured.
With the versatile Jess Tuki getting the nod at wing attack and last week’s shining light Julianna Naoupu at goal attack, Irene van Dyk provided the finishing under the hoop for Magic.
A strong finish by Australian import Megan Dehn last week gave her the nod over Silver Fern Tutaia at goal attack for Mystics but the visitors had all sorts of problems penetrating a solid Magic defence.
After a relatively slow start to the season, Casey Williams came to light with a livewire performance, getting the better of shooting sensation Cathrine Latu in the opening stages.
With Williams well supported defensively by Jodi Tod, Peta Scholz and Laura Langman, Mystics were rattled into a string of errors as the home team rolled out to a five goal advantage. However, a late quarter surge kept Mystics well in touch as Magic went to the first break with a 12-9 lead.
Tutaia made her entrance on the resumption, replacing Dehn, who had been well contained. Again the transition from Magic through court was copybook as the visitors struggled for urgency and accuracy.
With a quality delivery of ball, van Dyk revelled under the hoop while Williams was at her best, disrupting the flow to Mystics’ shooters with her aerial skills while gleaning nine deflections.
As in the first quarter, Mystics made a late run, securing some turnover ball and with Tutaia sinking a clutch of long range goals, it was the Magic by a narrow 22-21 at halftime.
Going toe-to-toe through a tight and tense third quarter, the defensive pressure from both teams intensified. There was an increase in physicality as players bounced off each other with repeated regularity. The spoiling tactics of lofty defenders Anna Scarlett and Kayla Cullen stalled Magic’s momentum at times but the growing rapport of van Dyk and the talented Naoupu was influential.
Magic’s smothering defensive wall across Mystic’s attacking third was instrumental in halting the visitor’s flow and ensuring their ball delivery lacked accuracy. Accurate, long range shooting from Tutaia kept the visitors in the hunt but errors at crucial times left them chasing as the home team headed down the home straight with a 35-33 lead.
Magic kept their noses in front for most of a pulsating final quarter before Mystics came back to level the scores with under four minutes to go. It stayed level-pegging until a vital deflection from Scarlett was converted by a red-hot Tutaia to give Mystics a vital one-goal edge with just seconds remaining.
Magic were left to rue a lack of accuracy under the hoop, having eight more shots than the Mystics which should have seen them wrap up the game.
Latu the key to Mystics challenge
 Press Release March 10, 2011
An impressive last outing has Northern Mystics well primed to break their duck against Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic in fifth round ANZ Championship netball action in Hamilton on Sunday.
Mystics went some way to silencing their critics with a thrilling late charge to down the glamour Melbourne Vixens 56-54 last weekend. They have, however, endured a miserable seven successive defeats to Magic, the latest a six-goal loss in round two last month but on recent form will start this one as favourites.
Former Silver Ferns and Mystics coach Yvonne Willering believes the key to the outcome lies with shooting sensation Cathrine Latu. A powerhouse under the Mystics hoop this season, the Silver Fern in waiting has held sway over most opponents with her positioning, deft off-loading and accuracy.
``I’ve been really tossing up with this one,’’ said Willering, who operates globally as a contract netball coach these days.
``At the moment I’d say Mystics must be favourites because their last encounter against Vixens was one of their most consistent.
``Even though they’ve got a couple of youngsters in there, at the moment it looks like no team is able to put a counter to Cathrine Latu, in particular.
``She just played a superb holding game and no one had an answer to that. I think the Mystics are also learning how to feed her better and they have more options now, particularly being able to introduce someone like (Australian import) Megan Dehn to provide stability and feeding variety.’’
However, Willering felt Vixens, who were not helped by some local umpiring interpretations, orchestrated their own downfall and Mystics’ real test will be how they back up.
Her assessment of the unbeaten Magic was not so favourable.
``I don’t think they’ve reached their full stride. I look at them and think, `what’s going on with you lot’?’’ she said.
``They look tired, Casey Williams’ timing is out and she’s getting frustrated, you can see it. They’ve won their recent games in the last quarter when she (Williams) has actually come to the party either with a critical intercept or a rebound. But she hasn’t been consistent and to me she looks tired.
``There’s a lack of spark in that team…..something’s lacking at the moment.’’
For all that, Willering said it would be unwise to totally discount New Zealand’s most successful team in the competition. Traditional slow starters, Magic have been stilted on attack with their inexperienced attacking line taking time to find their feet after regular Frances Solia was granted leave to help her recover from a debilitating illness.
``Mystics at the moment still haven’t proven their true worth because the first two games they played (Southern Steel and Central Pulse) were relatively easy games,’’ she said.
``And yep, they certainly brought out a good one against Vixens but now it’s a question of can they repeat that performance. Because they haven’t been able to do that in the past, there’s a little bit of hesitancy of whether you would favour them or not.’’
In saying that, Willering predicted if Magic put out the same performance they’ve produced in the last two games (Canterbury Tactix and Central Pulse), then Mystics will win.
``But Magic’s in a situation where, I think, they can only improve. I think they’re lucky with where they are sitting at the moment (top of the table).
``The feeding to Cathrine (Latu) is the key to this game….it’s as simple as that. If Magic can contain Cathrine, it means Mystics will have to adopt a different ball game.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Overtime win for Magic
 Rising talent Julianna Naoupu played a pivotal role in Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s battling 63-56 overtime win over Canterbury Tactix in ANZ Championship netball action in Rotorua on Monday.
Tactix channelled their post-earthquake emotions into a spirited and gutsy effort against the table-topping Magic to leave the scores locked 47-all at the end of regular time. With nowhere to host the game in earthquake-ravaged Canterbury, Tactix were playing their ``home’’ match far from home but turned on a thriller.
Transferring north from Southern Steel this year in search of more game time, 20-year-old Naoupu showed all the calm and poise of a veteran as she went on to slot a polished 37 goals from 40 attempts for a 92 percent success rate. In the process, she out-scored her more illustrious shooting partner Irene van Dyk, who returned an unusually modest 26 from 27.
In a dishevelled performance, Magic’s greater experience told in the end, their patience to pounce when it mattered most and the exploits of Naoupu finally pocketing the two points after two extra spells of seven minutes.
Dispelling any thoughts of rustiness from nine days without training together, the southerners showed more fluidity on attack than their opponents and defended doggedly to force turnover ball in the opening exchanges.
Magic were more methodical and stilted in their build-up, the lean-framed Jess Tuki taking up the wing attack’s bib in the absence of the experienced Frances Solia, away on pre-arranged leave. Consistent shooting from van Dyk and Naoupu gave Magic an early edge before Tactix greater urgency and accuracy paid off.
Wily veteran Donna Wilkins and Ellen Halpenny worked the Tactix shooting circle seamlessly while industrious midcourters Maree Bowden and Charlotte Kight got their hands on a lot of deflected and intercept ball as they headed into the first break with a 15-13 lead.
Tactix continued with their tidy and almost mistake-free execution on the resumption, drawing out to a four-goal lead before Magic started to gather some momentum. Improved timing and quicker release ensured a better supply of ball to the shooters as van Dyk and Naoupu outwitted the close attentions of defenders Anna Galvan and Kasey Evering.
At the other end of the court, Wilkins and Halpenny continued their smart play with expert positioning but their shooting accuracy fell away, opening the door for Magic. Defenders Casey Williams and Jodi Tod made no mistake as they snapped up the rebounds, Magic dominating the final stages to leave the halftime scores tied up at 26-all after Tactix had enjoyed six more attempts at goal.
Both teams made changes for the second half, the switch from the back to goal defence for Williams and injection of 1.88m goalkeeper Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick added some spark to Magic.
Hitting a five-goal lead, Magic threatened to run away with the game, the Tactix fluidity falling away as they struggled to penetrate solid midcourt defence. Williams was in the thick of play while centre Laura Langman was a strong contributor both on attack and defensively.
With Wilkins back at goalshoot and Anna Thompson coming off the bench to goal attack, Tactix slowly ground their way back into contention. Showing their spirit, Tactix refused to buckle, a late three-goal rally helping them stay in touch as Magic held on to a tenuous 40-38
threequarter time lead.
Tall Jamaican import Evering continued to subdue van Dyk, keeping the normally prolific shooter under wraps in a messy final quarter that offered numerous opportunities to both teams.
Magic failed to cope with the Tactix hustle and bustle as the southerners smothered everything thrown at them and fittingly sending the match into overtime.
Magic wary of Tactix threat
 Press Release March 3, 2011
Taking on an emotional Canterbury Tactix has danger written all over it, according to Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic ahead of Monday’s fourth-round ANZ Championship netball clash.
Magic are expecting the effects wrought by the Canterbury earthquake to have bonded the Tactix into a tight unit and much more of an unknown quantity.
``It’s such a horrible thing to have happened,’’ Magic attacker Jamilah Gupwell said.
``We’re lucky this game is going ahead and they will just want to get out there and play for Christchurch as well as for themselves and their families.
This will be the first match for Tactix since the destructive earthquake struck on February 22. Originally set down to be played in Christchurch, the game was relocated to Rotorua where it will still be treated as a Tactix ‘home match’, with all gate receipts going to the Canterbury team.
There’s an inner turmoil of a different kind for Magic…..a form slump after a solid start to the season. Scraping home by two goals in their latest outing against the winless Central Pulse somewhat muted the celebrations of four days earlier following their heady win against Northern Mystics.
``It did bring us down to earth a little bit but I think we are still finding our feet,’’ said Gupwell, who transferred from Pulse to Magic this season.
``We are not disheartened in any way. It was a bit of a blip on our radar but historically Pulse have tended to play quite a good game against Magic. We faltered a bit with the type of defence they played but we will be better armed for the future because of it.’’
Gupwell described the southerners as gritty, strong defensively and adept at keeping the ball in hand.
Occupying bottom spot in last year’s competition, Tactix have shored up vulnerable areas with smart off-season signings in feisty shooter Donna Wilkins and seasoned Jamaican defender Kasey Evering, adding height and experience to both ends.
Coach Noeline Taurua is likely to stick with her policy of rotating Gupwell and Julianna Naoupu at goal attack as Magic look to make a clean sweep of first round clashes against New Zealand franchises.
``Julianna and I offer such different games, so there’s no hard feelings or anything like that,’’ Gupwell said. ``I just try and grasp whatever opportunities come my way.
``She’s very dynamic in the circle and does a lot of work, almost like a conventional goalshoot, on the baseline whereas I tend to play more of a feeding role and work the top of the circle. It’s always a good thing to have two options.’’
A little anxious to start with, Gupwell, 24, is loving her time at Magic and with a perfect three from three start to the season has equaled the number of wins she experienced in three years with Pulse. Wins against Southern Steel and Mystics were firsts against those teams for the canny attacker.
``I’m stoked that we’ve got three wins,’’ she said.
``A lack of wins makes things pretty tough. When you come to a team like this (Magic), there is always that expectation of winning. They’ve got the experience and the old heads in the team to actually make that happen.
``I feel lucky I can be one of the young girls again whereas at the Pulse I was the oldest one in our shooting circle for the majority of the time I was there. It has been good to come up here and just learn and absorb all the information that’s on offer.
``We’re at the top of the table which is awesome, it’s something that I’m definitely not used to but more than happy to become accustomed to.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic win but fail to fire
 Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic would have been happy to just pocket the two points after finally subduing a brave Central Pulse 46-44 in ANZ Championship action in Wellington on Monday.
Apart from the win, there was little for Magic to get excited about in a lacklustre outing. A poor second quarter counted against the home team, who played with more enthusiasm and intensity for much of the match as they continued to expose vulnerability in the Magic’s play.
Magic’s greater big match experience was pivotal in helping them hold out the fast-finishing Pulse while also providing a timely wake-up call.
Coming off their all-important win against Northern Mystics on Thursday, Magic coach Noeline Taurua took the opportunity to inject some of her lesser experienced players into the match.
Teenaged defender Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick was given her first start for her new team at goalkeep while the equally tall timber of Jess Tuki took up the wing attack’s bib. Jamilah Gupwell ran on at goal attack against her old team-mates while the rest of the team had a familiar look about it with Irene van Dyk, Laura Langman, Peta Scholz and Casey Williams taking their places.
Pulse responded in positive fashion from their heart-breaking loss two days earlier, outplaying Magic before the fire alarm interrupted, resulting in the complete evacuation of TSB Bank Arena halfway through the opening stanza.
The unplanned break did little to deter the home team, who held the upper hand against the slow-starting Magic. Strong attacking drives, tight defensive patterns and greater accuracy under the hoop from shooters Caitlin Thwaites and Amber Bellringer gave the Pulse a deserved 14-11 first quarter lead.
Adopting the wing attack’s role on the resumption, the experienced Frances Solia sparked some life into a lethargic-looking Magic. Strong on the drive and accurate with her feeding, the nippy little midcourter provided expert service to shooters van Dyk and Gupwell.
The effect was immediate, Van Dyk revelling in the conditions as Magic scored the first five goals to assume the lead. The visitors inflicted an eight-goal turnaround on the back of a perfect 14-from-14 from van Dyk during the spell as they headed into the main break with a 26-21 lead.
Pulse, however, showed they were far from done with a resolute and staunch third quarter. Introducing Julianna Naoupu at goal attack, Magic could not shake the spirited home team who were energised by Cuashla Lichtwark’s presence at wing defence.
Regrouping after a soft second quarter, Pulse troubled Magic with a well worked defensive zone and tight marking from Katrina Grant and Bessie Manu to help subdue van Dyk while on attack they had few problems heading towards goal. A mounting penalty count did not help Magic’s cause, gifting Pulse numerous opportunities which they finally took advantage of to level the scores at 31-all.
A late surge helped Magic to a 35-32 lead heading into the last break.
A blockbusting final quarter by Williams and her offsider Tone-Fitzpatrick, who reeled in a string of intercept and rebound ball, reignited Magic who looked set to march away but Pulse produced another dose of determined intent.
A mighty late rally carried Pulse to within two goals with five minutes to play as the game swung wildly in the dying minutes. A rattled Magic made of host of uncharacteristic errors, grimly hanging on as the Pulse once again fell agonisingly short.
First Windows Magic Topple LG Mystics
 Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic maintained their perfect ANZ Championship record against Northern Mystics, weathering a determined challenge to earn a hard-fought 45-39 win in Auckland on Thursday.
Desperate to get their first win against their near neighbours, the start of the double-header Super Round proved a disappointment for Mystics, who slipped to a seventh consecutive loss to Magic.
Showing greater composure in the final quarter, Magic rallied with a big combined effort to quell the last of the Mystics resistance.
With Joline Henry ruled out with an ankle injury, Mystics were forced to reshuffle their defensive line, the promising Kayla Cullen lining up at wing defence while Silver Fern Grace Rasmussen got the nod ahead of Australian veteran Megan Dehn at wing attack.
For Magic, the versatile but little played Jess Tuki took over the wing attack’s bib from Frances Solia, who had been bed-ridden during the week with a virus.
A cracking pace was set from the outset with tenacious and unrelenting defensive pressure dictating the run of play. With eight Silver Ferns spread across the court, there was action aplenty.
The under-rated Mystics defence line was to the fore, the long reach of goal defence Anna Scarlett picking off a host of deflected and intercept ball. In tandem with Rachel Rasmussen, the pair kept Irene van Dyk well contained, the league’s most accurate shooter taking 9-1/2 minutes to get her first shot away.
The intensely defensive nature told in the shooting statistics where both teams were well under the 70 percent mark during the first stanza.
Showing greater fluency through court and on the back of a five-goal unanswered run the Mystics shot out to a three-goal advantage before Magic reeled them in, leaving the scores all tied up 11-all at the first break.
There was little change on the resumption with Solia taking over from Tuki and Jamilah Gupwell picking up the goal attack’s bib from Julianna Naoupu for Magic. Gupwells’ ability to find the gap brought van Dyk back into the game as the teams went toe-to-toe through a second stanza arm wrestle.
The defensive intensity showed no signs of diminishing, a sea of arms smothering most attacking efforts from both sides. Magic lifted their through court defence with Laura Langman and Peta Scholz prominent but Cullen and Scarlett proved just as effective.
Maria Tutaia recovered from a slow start to sink some trademark long bombs while Cathrine Latu’s timing and positioning under the hoop were almost flawless. Still the teams could not be separated as they headed into halftime all locked up at 23-23.
The drama continued unabated as momentum continued to swing during an equally absorbing third quarter. Dehn made her entrance for Mystics with neither team showing any sign of buckling.
Magic were more precise in their build-up and found their target of van Dyk more frequently through the vision of Gupwell, who continued to impress, as the visitors twice had the opportunity to jump to mini-breaks. But again and again, Mystics came roaring back with Scarlett continuing to play the perfect spoiling role. Turnovers became crucial but neither side was able to take full advantage.
It was Magic who inched their noses just in front to lead 35-34 heading down the home straight.
Some Casey Williams brilliance snaffled extra ball for Magic who made a great start to the final quarter, also making their opponents pay for some missed shots, a dropping off on defence and unforced errors. Six unanswered goals finally took the visitors out to a position of comfort.
Local derby highlights Super Round
Press Release February 23, 2011
The local derby between Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic and Northern Mystics is set to light up the aptly-named Super Round of this weekend’s ANZ Championship netball competition.
The eagerly-anticipated clash between New Zealand’s two best sides, in Auckland on Thursday, kicks off the first of three rounds of double-headers that will occur during the season. Magic will follow up with a match against Central Pulse on Monday.
Magic travel up the road well aware of what lies in wait; a Mystics team chock-full of talent and desperate to notch their first-ever win against the visitors.
Mystics have faced little pressure in comfortably pocketing two wins from two starts while Magic started their campaign with a solid result against Steel. Magic took positive steps towards building their game around a more disciplined approach in that first outing and for coach Noeline Taurua that remains the emphasis despite the keen interest surrounding the upcoming match.
``Honestly, for us, it’s just another game,’’ she said.
``No matter who we’re up against we’re excited to get out on court and the next one just happens to be against Mystics and there just happens to be a lot of media hype behind the game and who’s going to take the mantle of being New Zealand’s best franchise. But it’s only the second round and there’s a long way to go irrespective of Thursday’s outcome.
``We’re just going about our business….we play who we play. There’s no hype from our end, we just want to play.’’
The implementing of new strategies does not become ingrained overnight but Magic were certainly headed in the right direction after their first game. The franchise has never recorded less than 20 turnovers for a game in its history but against Steel conceded just 18.
``That’s huge for us but it’s still way too early to say we’ve nailed it,’’ Taurua said.
Magic will need to put the clamps on a potent Mystics attack line containing sharp shooter Cathrine Latu, mecurial centre Temepara George and shrewd Australian import Megan Dehn, who is likely to occupy a more substantive role than impacting from the bench
``They’ve got formidable individuals who are starting to form strong units and they’re starting to get their overall package out on court looking pretty solid,’’ Taurua said.
``We’re just expecting that there’s going to be an enormous amount of pressure out on court, especially in our attacking end. It’s about us knowing and expecting that’s going to happen and being smart in what we’re doing, having real purpose, maintaining discipline and executing our game plan.’’
Taurua is happy to keep interchanging her two new goal attack options Julianna Naoupu and Jamilah Gupwell, depending on the situation.
``I’m really happy with both of them,’’ she said. ``They’re both exciting and they both bring us something different which can change the chemistry on the court.’’
Tuarua was delighted with the efforts of Australian Peta Scholz against Steel, returning after a serious knee injury sustained last season, and originally doubtful for the start of this season. Her clash with Dehn will be one of the many individual highlights of the match.
This year, because of the double-header rounds, coaches had to work smarter, Taurua said in reference to Magic’s following match against Pulse.
``You won’t be able to continually play a front seven this season and expect them to be there at the end,’’ she said. ``You’ve got to be strategic and quite smart about the changes that you make and the timing of them.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Polished Start For First Windows Magic
 Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic opened their campaign with a polished 51-36 win over a hapless Southern Steel in ANZ Championship action in Rotorua on Sunday.
Exciting young shooting prospect Julianna Naoupu made her debut for Magic against her old team-mates while Steel welcomed back some experience after struggling with a depleted line-up in their season opener.
The return of key shooter Daneka Wipiiti and a rare appearance for defender Sheryl Scanlan paid early dividends for the visitors. The experienced Scanlan managed just 30 minutes of action last year after a frustrating injury run.
However, after falling by 17 goals to the Northern Mystics in their opening match last week, things did not get much better for the southerners today. For the Magic, they could be well satisfied with their first game of the competition.
It was a measured start by both teams, Magic showing plenty of evidence of their new-found strategy of retaining possession. Showing much more patience with the ball in hand worked a treat for the home team in the tight opening exchanges.
Confronted by a stern defensive challenge from Steel’s Leana de Bruin and Te Huinga Reo Selby-Rickit, Magic’s patience eventually paid off, the openings appearing as they worked the ball around.
A clever court player, Naoupu worked seamlessly in tandem with shooting great Irene van Dyk while at the other end Wipiiti showed her value with a near flawless opening.
A strong late run of five unanswered goals propelled Magic to a handy first quarter 14-10 buffer.
A threatening Magic stretched the margin out to seven before Steel responded strongly on the resumption to peg back the deficit. Steel found the target of Wipiiti with more consistency, the unflappable shooter sinking goals from all points of the circle while Paula Griffin upped her involvement with valuable support.
Steel narrowed the gap to one before they lost their momentum when injury forced de Bruin from the court. Magic seized the opportunity, finishing with a flourish as they headed into halftime with a 27-22 lead.
Looking for more pace on attack, Jamilah Gupwell, recruited from the Central Pulse in the off-season replaced Naoupu while de Bruin was restored to full health for Steel. Presented with plenty of opportunities, Steel failed to take them as basic errors eroded their game, de Bruin the lone figure offering any semblance of resistance.
Magic upped the defensive pressure through court with Laura Langman and Peta Scholz prominent. That pressure transferred to an increasingly shaky Wipiiti, who looked to be struggling with her fitness.
When a diminished supply of ball did get to the hapless Steel shooters, it was often spoiled by the long reach and disruptive play of Magic defenders Casey Williams and Jodi Tod.
Restricting Steel to just six goals in the all-important third quarter, Magic took a 38-28 lead heading into the last break.
Continuing to weigh up her goal attack options, Magic coach Noeline Taurua used both Gupwell and Naoupu during the final quarter. The upshot made no difference to Magic’s dominance as they rolled on while the southerners would be disappointed with an error-strewn outing.
Van Dyk slotted into her usual accurate performance with a return of 36 shots from 39 attempts for a 92 percent success rate.
Change of Tact for First Windows Magic
 Press Release February 17, 2011
Ready to change tact, Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic will test their new-look strategies against a wounded Southern Steel in their ANZ Championship netball opener on Sunday.
A key objective for Magic in the build-up for this campaign has revolved around ball retention. More control is the emphasis, an area that has let the team down in the past despite their quality of talent.
``There has been a lot of emphasis in our trainings on possession of the ball, more than we’ve ever done before. It is a different approach for us, part of the evolving process and learning lessons from the past,’’ Magic coach Noeline Taurua said.
Past masters of keeping hold of the ball and the ability to play safety first netball, Steel head to Rotorua licking their wounds after enduring a 17-goal mauling by Northern Mystics in round one.
Despite a horror injury run where several frontline players were missing for the Mystics fixture, Steel coach Robyn Broughton was less than impressed with the high turnover rate from her team and has demanded better against Magic.
With both coaches insisting the ball is treasured like gold and the possibility of influential shooter Daneka Wipiiti and experienced defender Sheryl Scanlan returning for the southerners, an interesting arm wrestle is on the cards.
``We have got a lot of respect for the Steel and Robyn Broughton, so there’s no way we will take this game lightly,’’ Taurua said. ``They’ve proved their critics wrong in the past and no matter who lines up for them, they will present their usual determined and gritty challenge.’’
Not involved in last week’s opening round, Magic headed off into the great outdoors on a four-day team building exercise which involved paddling down the Whanganui River by day and pitching tents, cooking on an open flame and getting used to long drops when not on the water.
With her Silver Ferns trio of Irene van Dyk, Laura Langman and Casey Williams, and Australian import Peta Scholz only re-joining the squad two weeks ago, Taurua has had limited time to gel her team.
``We are probably a little bit underdone but I’d like to think we are ready to go. We’ve done a lot in regards to setting our foundation as a team but it won’t be until we take the court in our first match that we can gauge where we actually sit in our overall preparedness for the competition,’’ she said.
With the compact nature of the season, which will involve double-header rounds, impact off the bench will be crucial. Taurua believes Magic have greater depth than in the past which should promote extra competitiveness within the team.
A case in point is the two options chasing the goal attack bib – Magic newcomers Julianna Naoupu (from the Steel) and Jamilah Gupwell (Central Pulse). Taurua rates both highly for different reasons with neither having the inside running yet.
The appointment of canny assistant coach Marg Foster has added another dimension to Magic’s make-up for 2011, lightening the load and pressure on Taurua.
``Marg is naturally creative, it just comes out of her,’’ Taurua said. ``She adds a different dynamic and chemistry to the team and she’s got energy to burn.’’
One player who can’t wait for the first whistle is Magic’s inspiring wing defence Scholz, returning to the fray after sustaining a serious knee injury halfway through last season’s competition.
``She’s awesome and ready to go,’’ Taurua said. ``There was some concern she might not be quite ready for the start of the season but she’s done so much work and is raring to go.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Waipa District Ratepayers Support First Class
The training match between First Windows Magic and LG Mystics proved to be a winner on all counts. The offer of bringing your Waipa District rates demand and adults getting in for half price attracted a whole new set of fans for the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic Team.
"More than 80% of those who came through the door had their rates demands with them and some were even bold enough to ask us to pay them," said CEO Sheryl Dawson. "What an impressive turn out we had for the training match that ran over five quarters and provided some first class glimpses of what is to come during the ANZ Championships 2011. There were few spare spaces and we think that there were about 650 people in attendance."
This will be the only training game against another ANZ Championship side that the First Windows Magic will play prior to their first game against the Steel on Febraury 20 in Rotorua.
|
