Just ask Tongala’s A grade netball team.
Fourteen-year-old Lilly Waasdorp has excelled in the first three games of the season, playing a key role in her side’s two victories.
Coach Caddison Mulholland has put plenty of faith in the youngster, playing her as the Blues’ goal attack.
And already the difference from the start of the season is noticeable.
You just need to look at Saturday’s victory over Nathalia.
‘‘She dominated the attacking end,’’ Mulholland said.
‘‘Her hands have come on leaps and bounds already.
‘‘If you didn’t know Lilly, you would have no idea that she is only 14.
‘‘To make the step up to senior netball was a really brave decision.’’
Her decision to make the step up to the senior grades, has been made much easier by the guidance of her teammates.
At every opportunity, they are looking to instil confidence into Waasdorp.
‘‘The girls are always willing to do that little bit extra for her,’’ Mulholland said.
‘‘From the very beginning, they’ve backed her in.
‘‘On court you can see how much confidence they have in her.’’
While they cashed in at the attacking end against Nathalia, it wouldn’t have been possible without the team’s defensive pressure.
And it needed to be given the height advantage, the visitors held under the ring.
‘‘Across the court the girls pressed the ball really well,’’ Mulholland explained.
‘‘To limit their opportunities was a big factor in the result.’’
Now with two wins under their belt, Mulholland says the team is starting to realise their potential.
After an off-season of change, it was always going to take time for them to gel.
‘‘We’ve had a few teething problems, but those are becoming smaller,’’ she said.
‘‘It’s hard to adapt with so many new faces around you.
‘‘The girls have worked really hard to get together.
‘‘Now they’re getting a reward for that.’’