Super Netball Grand Final: Former West Coast Fever captains hoping next generation can finally break through

Mitchell WoodcockThe West Australian
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Camera IconFormer West Coast Fever captain Joely van Lelyveld, current captain Courtney Bruce, and former captain Sam Lee at the State Netball Centre ahead of the Super Netball Grand Final. Credit: Ross Swanborough/The West Australian

When West Coast Fever players step onto the court in the Super Netball grand final on Sunday, they’ll do so with 25 years of sweat, tears and pride behind them.

Fever, who were the Perth Orioles from 1997 to 2007 before being rebranded, will chase their maiden premiership when they battle Melbourne Vixens at RAC Arena.

The modern-day success of Fever was built on a tough foundation, with former captains Sam Lee (nee Andrews) and Joely van Lelyveld (Riding) hoping it will all be worth it when they finally end the premiership drought.

Lee, who is part of the Fever’s program as coach of the under-17s futures team, said a premiership would mean the world to the past players and the WA netball community.

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“It’s been 25 years in the waiting that we’ve not only been wanting to get to a grand final but to win one,” she said.

“It would be amazing for the club, but also for thousands of WA little girls out there who will one day want to be part of this club and for it to be a successful club is all we’ve ever wanted.”

Lee was captain from 2002 to 2005, when the team won just seven games, but helped the culture that is holding it in good stead today.

“Years ago it wasn’t as professional as it is now. The club has evolved over those 25 years to what it is now and it’s such a professional unit as athletes that are working hard and the people behind them,” she said.

“You need to keep taking on little steps, you can’t take big steps. And they’ve got to where they are now because of the hard work of everyone who’s put in throughout the years.”

Camera IconFormer West Coast Fever captain Joely van Lelyveld, current captain Courtney Bruce, and former captain Sam Lee at the State Netball Centre ahead of the Super Netball Grand Final. Credit: Ross Swanborough/The West Australian

Van Lelyveld, who was the skipper alongside Catherine Cox in 2000, said every former player, coach and supporter had been part of the journey.

“They’re a fantastic squad, they’re well-deserving to take the premiership home this year,” she said.

“When we were playing, it’s the only thing we ever wanted. Especially with the Orioles, the best we ever finished was sixth.

“Anyone that’s been involved with the Orioles or Fever would have an emotional time if they win, to be honest with you.”

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