Claws rewarded after tough season

Teenage sensation Shanita Smith has been a revelation for the Claws and with Bluebirds this year.

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WITH the hard work completed, the girls from the Capricorn Claws were able to relax and gain some reward for their endeavours.

This was the second year the awards have been held and at the function, held at Dreamtime Cultural Centre, there were a number of worthy recipients.

"The rewards are recognition of the effort and commitment of the players," coach Barbara Ahmat said.

"They train three hours every Saturday as well as strength and fitness training."

Ahmat said Claws players also attend promotions and workshops that assist youngsters setting off in the sport.

"They are great ambassadors," she said.

On top of that, the players also have club commitments.

A popular winner was Shanita Smith who was named Claws open netball team's "player of the year".

The TCC student was a standout for the Claws, spending most of her court time at wing defence.

"It is fantastic a young player can collect that award," Ahmat said.

Another young winner was shooter Poppy Larson, of Gladstone, who won the Flamank shooting award, finishing the season with 74.4% accuracy.

The Claws players choice award went to Bluebirds circle defender Danielle Wingard while fellow defender Keanna Hopkins, who plays club netball with Frenchville Brumbies, received the QGESS team spirit accolade.

Capricorn Coast's Kira-Lee Leo received the Anna Young most improved award for the representative season.

Despite the Claws being unable to match last season, the team did make the finals again and Ahmat is looking forward to starting all over again.

The Claws expect to lose the services of Larson and fellow shooter Kate Kearney next season as both players are planning to relocate to Brisbane.

Better news is that captain Carmen Anderson wants to come back for a 10th year with the Claws while Shanita Smith has decided to study at Rockhampton rather than leave the area as was first expected.

Claws squad members will attend a junior netball clinic in Emerald on October 22-23 and Ahmat, who has yet to be re-appointed, is keen for Claws pre-season training to start in mid-October.

Ahmat said the initial focus would be on aerobic, strength and conditioning and specialist skills work.