The NSW Swifts fell heartbreakingly short of the finals race in 2022, after winning the premiership the year prior.
A spot in the top four came down to the final round. The Swifts had to beat the Queensland Firebirds - which they did. But only by the smallest of margins, opening the door for the Collingwood who were sitting on the same points as the Swifts.
Ultimately, they missed out. The pain of that final round will be hard to forget for the Swifts camp.
But could it be the driving force they need to succeed in season 2023?
Before we look too far ahead let's revisit the season gone by.
SEASON REFLECTION
It was a challenging year from the get-go for the Swifts who were dealt a round 1 blow with star shooter Sam Wallace going down with an ACL injury, ruling her out of the season.
The injury to Wallace did open the door for Wagga Wagga teenager Sophie Fawns who had an impressive first year.
The Swifts managed to put together some memorable wins against the Collingwood Magpies and Adelaide Thunderbirds. They also beat the GIANTS and Firebirds and came close to defeating 2022 premiers the West Coast Fever in round 13.
Seasoned shooter Helen Housby stepped up in the absence of Wallace, scoring 453 goals including a league high of 56 super shots.
Maddy Proud also stood out amassing the greatest number of Nissan Net Points for a midcourter in any team with 1214.5.
Swifts captain Maddy Proud was exceptional in the midcourt.GAMECHANGER
The defensive pressure from Sarah Klau throughout the season provided her team with plenty of opportunities to score. She finished third in the league for deflections with 68 and fourth for intercepts with 31.
LOOKING FORWARD
The Swifts will welcome Sam Wallace back to the court next year, and considering they have kept their team together they should have what it takes to launch a real challenge for the SSN trophy.
TEAM STATS
Ladder position: 5th
Wins: 6
Losses: 8
Best margin: 14
PLAYER STATS
Nissan Net Points: Maddy Proud – 1214.5
Total Goals scored: Helen Housby - 453
Suncorp Super Shots scored: Helen Housby - 56
Goal Assists: Maddy Proud - 364
Interceptions: Sarah Klau - 31
