Netball: Mystical transformation

Laura Langman. Photo / Photosport

After disappearing for a few years, it feels like the Mystics are back.

The Auckland side, who face the New South Wales Swifts in Sydney today, were a huge disappointment in the last two seasons.

Despite their star-studded roster, they were out of ANZ Championship playoff contention midway through last year and won only one game in 2013.

Something has clicked this year. Debbie Fuller's team are unbeaten against New Zealand opposition and have lost just one of their first seven matches. Some astute recruitment seems to have paid off, with the addition of the likes of Camilla Lees and Serena Guthrie making a big difference.

But perhaps the most important signing was Noeline Taurua, with the long-time Magic coach making an invaluable contribution to the coaching team as an assistant.

"Noeline has provided a lot of nous at the attacking end," said Mystics midcourter Laura Langman. "Our links are a lot better and we are functioning more as a unit now. There is more confidence in our approach."

Langman also emphasises Taurua's "no bullshit" attitude, which has rubbed off on the rest of the team.

"It's all about not making excuses," said Langman. "Our attitude has improved, we are playing more for each other and have much more discipline."

The Mystics plotted a course for success at a December training camp, where as well as time on court, they spent long periods discussing what they wanted to achieve as a team. There was some awkward home truths at the time but it seems to have paid off.

"We wanted to establish who we were playing for and clarify our vision," said Langman. "We talked about our values and culture."

Langman, as always, has been a central figure in their promising start. The 29-year-old has been one of the most prominent players in the competition, with her constant drive on attack and defence.

The Swifts hold a historical advantage over the Mystics (5-3) but lost their previous encounter, a 56-53 defeat in the final round last season. Today's match starts at 2.18pm.