Kilcunda’s Zac Mabilia ready for Aussie honours

KILCUNDA-BASED netballer Zac Mabilia is ready to take on New Zealand in Christchurch, with the talented 16-year-old looking forward to battling under 23 opponents while representing Australia.

He will play in the New Zealand Men’s Netball Nationals, with matches against domestic sides Christchurch, North Harbour and Waitakere, as well as the showdown with New Zealand.

“We’re an under 17s team but we play up in New Zealand competitions because they don’t have the younger age groups that we do,” Zac explained.

As well as continuing to play netball and footy, he has been training hard in preparation for the upcoming international event.

That includes fortnightly sessions in Melbourne suburb Oakleigh with other Australian squad members, a three-day training camp in Sydney, along with strength and conditioning and running programs.

Zac continues to balance his extensive sporting commitments with work and school, with mum Michelle helping him get where he needs to be for matches.

He was excited to receive his Australian playing uniform recently and looks forward to a busy tournament.

That includes up to three games in a day, with the event running over just four days.

The tight schedule presents a physical challenge, Zac stressed.

“In between each game, the focus will be on recovery and getting your body right, and the night time will be set up for pool recovery, rolling and stretching,” he said, acknowledging the squad’s young age will assist with managing the physical demands of the tournament.

The team has a physio on hand.

“Our Nationals is a week-long tournament with one, maybe two games a day,” Zac said by way of contrast.

While there is little respite between games in New Zealand, match duration is reduced.

Zac arrived in New Zealand on August 22, resplendent in his offcourt Australian outfit.

The side’s opening contest is against Christchurch on Wednesday August 24, with matches against other Kiwi domestic opponents over the next couple of days leading into the international game.

“On the Saturday, when they have all their grand finals, our Australian under 17s play against New Zealand’s under 23 side,” Zac said.

The Aussie boys will proudly wear green and gold throughout the tournament.

Oncourt, Zac loves the responsibility of playing as a centre or wing attack, relishing the opportunity to cover plenty of court.

While he brings a competitive spirit to all his sport, Zac is also looking forward to the social side of the New Zealand adventure.

Despite the busy playing schedule, there will be some time for the squad members to experience a little of Christchurch.

Parents Michelle and Adam, and brother Brodie are set to cheer on Zac and his teammates in Christchurch, along with other family members.

“We’re excited and ready to go,” Michelle said ahead of the New Zealand tour.