SHE'S athletic and talented, but Sydney Swifts coach Briony Akle says it's Sophie Fawns' maturity and game awareness that excites them most about Wagga teenager Sophie Fawns.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Mangoplah-Cookardinia United- Eastlakes goal attack is currently training with the Swifts squad after retaining her spot in the Super Netball club's academy program.
Akle said the 16-year-old's level-headedness and ability to read the game is far beyond her years, and holds her in good stead to take the next step to the professional ranks in coming years.
"She reads the game extremely well, it's something you can teach as easily to an athlete," Akle said.
"She's in the right positions at the right time, and has a great long shot on her, those are the attributes we really like about her. She's obviously athletic, but knowing and understanding the game at such a young age is what excites us at the Swifts."
Fawns travels regularly to take part in Swifts training, and also journeyed to the Sunshine Coast last year when teams were placed in a hub for the Super Netball season.
Akle said Fawns being wiling to forego other things in her life to be the best netballer she can be is a strong sign she has what it takes mentally.
"She fits right in. Some of the world's best are her but she tries to learn a lot and asks a lot of questions," Akle said.
"It's seamless for her and I think she has what it takes to take it to the next level because of that attitude.
"Sophie sacrifices a lot to come up and train, and usually she stays with one of our staff members or one of our players.
"To give things up to chase her dream is pretty exceptional for her age, and shows maturity that most athletes of her age don't have as yet."
Fawns will complete year 12 in Wagga this year, and Akle said the club is keen to find more hidden gems in regional areas of the state.
"NSW is not just Sydney and we're very aware of that," she said.
"Our academy is doing a great job of finding athletes in the regional areas, and it's something we want to continue."
Fawns was also selected in Netball Australia's under-17 Centre of Excellence squad.
READ MORE