The Wanderers netball club from Australia showcased their talents at the Salad Bowl Netball Festival in Sigatoka, marking their third visit to Fiji. Under the guidance of coach Marianna McKay, the team, made up of players from various regions in Australia, many of whom were unfamiliar with each other prior to the tour, quickly formed a strong bond.
McKay noted, “We have 19 players forming two open teams, with ages starting from around 19. My role is to bring them together, and after a few games, they have acclimated well. The weather has been quite favorable.”
The Wanderers enjoy a well-established relationship with Fiji, having toured the nation previously and being familiar with the local competitive scene. McKay recalled, “We brought three junior teams last December to play in Suva.”
The club has fostered strong ties with the Suva and Salad Bowl Netball Associations and plans to return next year. This tour is significant not only for the competition but also for the players’ interest in immersing themselves in the local culture to create lasting memories. “The girls were really looking forward to today and experiencing everything Fiji has to offer,” McKay expressed.
As the Wanderers prepare for their return to Australia next week, the successes of their tours to Fiji strengthen the club’s connection to the region and their commitment to participating in local netball events in the future. The Australian team intends to return next year.