Netball champion swaps code for Olympic Rugby 7s dream
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Dual world championship defender Mo'onia Gerrard will put her netball career on hold as she pursues the dream of representing Australia in Rugby 7s at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games in Brazil.
Gerrard has made herself unavailable for Australian Diamonds selection for the 2013 internationals, which features a five-Test Constellation Cup series against New Zealand Silver Ferns and a two-Test series against Malawi, in September and October.
“The decision to forgo selection was difficult to make with the Commonwealth Games just over twelve months away but I’ve always harboured the dream of playing Rugby 7s for Australia,” Gerrard said.
“Not one for regrets, I see this year as my best opportunity to give it a serious crack and put my hand up for Australian Rugby 7s selection as a first step towards fulfilling my dream of playing in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.”
After making her Australia international netball debut against South Africa in Johannesburg in March 2004, Gerrard has amassed 68 international Test appearances, including two World Netball Championship titles (2007, 2011) and a Commonwealth Games silver medal (2010).
While its Gerrard’s charismatic playing style and flair that has made her an Australian Diamonds fan favourite on the netball court, it’s her great agility, speed, strength that will transfer into a career on the rugby field.
Australian Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander wished Gerrard all the best in Rugby 7s.
“It’s disappointing that we won’t have her available for Diamonds selection this year but I sincerely wish her the best of luck as she pursues a passion and dream of hers in Rugby 7s,” Alexander said.
“I have little doubt that she will strike fear into opposition eyes on the rugby field just like she did on the netball court with her physical presence, great hands, natural athleticism and sheer determination to succeed.”
