Wagga netball coach Amanda McLachlan says a guest coaching session with Australian Diamonds player Jamie-Lee Price was a golden experience for a group of young players.
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McLachlan's under 15 representative netball squad had the honour of training under the Australian wing defence, who also plays centre for Greater Western Sydney Giants in Super Netball.
Put in contact with the squad through a family connection, Price exceeded all expectations with her commitment to the cause.
"The girls got plenty of things out of it, especially drills and skills wise. The drills were fantastic," McLachlan said.
"We did a lot of agility stuff and a few little aspects in the drills were really good, things the girls hadn't done before. But also learning about talking to each other, backing each other up and not letting the drill break down when something goes wrong."
Price also had drills for pairs which she encouraged the players to pursue them at home, and talked through what it means to face tough times in sport.
"Having a chat afterwards, she spoke to them about missing out on teams when she was coming through and how it's not the end of the world," McLachlan said.
"It was about learning to re-set your focus. But also being good at other sports and not solely focussed on one."
There was also sound advice about eating habits, encouraging the young women to focus on healthy portions and a good balance, rather than denying themselves certain foods or limiting their eating.
The 24-year-old is almost a veteran at the Giants, heading into her fifth season and rated among the most influential players in the league.
Price's best netball may yet be ahead of her and the midcourt star would love to lockdown the centre role for the national team.
The players weren't aware of Price's appearance until she arrived. That in itself sent a buzz through the group.
"One of the girls saw her getting out of the car and asked, 'Is that Jamie-Lee Price?' They got so excited," McLachlan said.
"We are very lucky. She also spoke to the girls about training, in New Zealand (as a young teenager), then how she got into the Diamonds, and her worth ethic with the Giants and the Diamonds... including how the players motivate each other ... how they encourage each other to get up and go for that run, or go to the gym, or do that yoga session."
McLachlan said they couldn't have asked for more from one of the country's top flight players who gave her time on a Friday evening, while in the area for a brief break. .
"She was going back to Sydney the next day and was only here (in the Riverina) for a few days," McLachlan said.
"To come down for a few hours and really coach the girls, answer their questions and take an interest in them, it was great."