Kildare look to end Mater Dei's Tracey Gunson Shield dynasty

Kildare Catholic College co-captains Flynn Hogg and Frances Heffernan know Thursday's decider is the last opportunity they'll have to end Mater Dei Catholic College's stranglehold on the Tracey Gunson Shield.

The year 12 students were part of the Kildare sides which have lost their past three finals to Mater Dei during their five year winning streak in the open division.

"Flynn and I have been playing since year nine, we're pretty keen to get a win against Mater Dei because it's been a long time coming," Heffernan said.

"We're hoping this will be the year."

Hogg said finally claiming the shield before their school days end is inspiration enough.

"It's pretty motivating considering Mater Dei have had it for the last five years. Frances and I are pretty eager to get it back," she said.

"Considering we've been in the team so long, we want to fight for it and get the win.

"The (football) boys like to fight for that trophy more than us, we're pretty friendly. But once we step on that court, that's when we know it's real."

Despite their dynasty, Mater Dei captain Abbey Morton believes they're going into the final as outsiders after Kildare beat them in 21-16 in the preliminary rounds.

"We're all friends but it gets pretty intense on court. I've been in it since year nine as well, so I've had a bit of luck," Morton said.

"We got a lot of confidence (out of the Kildare game) as well, even though we lost. We realise there's a lot of things we can work on, and going in feeling like underdogs gives us a bit of comfort.

"Probably the pressure's more on us, but we've got a new side and the girls aren't as worried as much about it (history).

"Both teams have high pressure and it will come down to who can settle first."

Goal attack Hogg also expects another defence-dominated game.

"They do a zone defence and hang off a bit, we've been working on a short and sharp game," she said.

Hogg's sister Isabella, also a goal attack, will represent Kildare in the year 7-8 final against The Riverina Anglican College, which gets underway at 4.15pm..

"We'd both love to come home with a win. I'm sure mum would be happy with that too," Flynn Hogg said.

"It's good to see her working hard and love her netball too. We both play the same position. I like to give her as much tips as possible."

Isabel was inspired to take up the sport watching her sister from the sideline.

"She says to back myself with my shooting," Isabel said.

The open clash begins at 5.30pm, with finals to be played in the Equex Centre's indoor stadium.

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