Meet The Netballer: Caitlin Basset, GS For Sunshine Coast Lightning
Bassett doesn’t resent the fact that she’s also had to do a day job alongside her elite sporting career – she reckons she’ll be better equipped for life post-netball because of it.
Age: 28
Team: Sunshine Coast Lightning
Comp: Suncorp Super Netball, inaugural season Feb 18 to late Jun 2017
Position: GS (Goal Shooter)
Originally from: Byford, WA
How did you start playing netball?
My school started a netball team and all my friends were playing so naturally I wanted to join in. I loved the social side of the game, playing with other girls and being part of a team.
When did you become a pro netball player?
I first made an elite side in 2005 when I was 16 playing for the Perth Orioles in the Commonwealth Bank Trophy. I don’t call myself a professional netballer as I still work and study outside of the sport. In the last three years, the exposure and money in the sport has grown significantly but we have a long way to go.
Do you look forward to the day when sportswomen won’t need to work to subsidise their incomes?
One hundred per cent! Though I believe that working and studying while playing has taught me so much, and the transition into life post-netball won’t be as scary because of it.
What’s your training schedule like?
Pre-season we train morning and afternoon every day – a mixture of conditioning, skills, match play and gym. During the Suncorp Super Netball season we taper off to be as fresh as possible for games.
What are you most looking forward to in 2017?
The new Suncorp Super Netball competition! Eight Australian teams with amazing players from all over the world, it’s going to be a feast for the fans.
What would you say to a woman toying with the idea of trying netball for the first time?
I’d say it’s a great way to exercise, challenge yourself and make friends while having fun.
What do you like doing in your downtime?
Exploring the Sunshine Coast. It’s been nice to have a change of environment, I’ve been loving discovering new coffee spots on the coast.
Discover what the Women’s Health initiative WinS is and how you can get involved here.
