Western's march into the top six in the national netball championships in Dunedin came as a surprise to most -- but not to Jenny-May Coffin.
Western had nailed the final spot by finishing third in section two when they stunned Otago 52-49.
Coffin, who announced her retirement after leading Waikato to their second successive title last year, made a comeback to competitive netball this season after agreeing to help out Western coach Jenni Brewer.
"For the people who look in from the outside they would say that it was unexpected, but this team is capable of a lot more," she said.
Coffin directed traffic while the youngsters in the team, including three New Zealand under-21 players, performed superbly.
Goal shoot Jessica Tuki was particularly impressive, outplaying Silver Fern Anna Scarlett under the net.
Coffin said she and the experienced Joanne Andrew played smart, letting the youngsters do all the running.
"I was shagged, I was shattered.
"But then the brain clicks in and you start doing the smart things instead of running around madly.
"I was just keeping it calm.
Coffin said the young Western players had big futures.
"I feel very lucky to be surrounded by young girls. They're the next generation and it's a real buzz, it's like playing with Laura (Langman) and Casey (Williams) and just watching them grow."
- NZPA
Netball: Western's rise no surprise
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.