Deakin student Liz Watson named Australian Diamonds captain
Congratulations to Deakin student Liz Watson on being appointed the 25th captain of the Australian Diamonds late last week!
Watson, who is studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) and is part of the Deakin Elite Athlete Program, was voted into the leadership position by her teammates and a selection committee comprised of Diamonds head coach Stacey Marinkovich, Netball Australia CEO Kelly Ryan and former Diamonds captain Liz Ellis AO.
Watson made her Diamonds debut in 2016 and just two years later was awarded Australian netball’s most prestigious award, the Liz Ellis Diamond, for her outstanding efforts running the mid-court both domestically and internationally. She was also an integral member of the Deakin-sponsored Melbourne Vixens premiership-winning team in 2020.
The 27-year-old, who has been sidelined this year after having surgery on the navicular bone in her foot, was described by her teammates as a calm and controlled leader who empowers them both on and off the court.
‘I am very humbled and proud to be acknowledged by my teammates,’ Watson said last week following the announcement of her captaincy. ‘I love this sport, I love this team and I love this country. To be given the honour as captain of the Australian Diamonds is something I will forever be thankful for.’
‘This squad is so special and there will be many learnings, opportunities and memories that will last a lifetime. So many people have been a part of my journey and I am proud that they will be smiling seeing this announcement.’
Despite the recent setbacks to the Australian Diamonds international series against Netball England’s Vitality Roses due to COVID travel disruptions, we look forward to seeing what Liz and her fellow Diamonds can do once competition resumes.
Congratulations once again on this huge honour, Liz – we’re so proud of you!