Brice is back with Blaze in 2025 – And she’s bringing international experience with her
It may be off-season for Netball NSW Premier League, but South Coast Blaze’s Kristina Brice has been keeping busy on the court the past few months, preparing to represent Australia in the Trans Tasman Cup Series.
Brice recently competed as part of Australia’s Mixed Opens Team in Canberra last week, going head to head with New Zealand, getting a taste for one of netball’s fiercest rivalries.
“The style of game that the kiwis bring … is something different to what we experience here in Australia and it’s always been a tussle that I’ve enjoyed.” Brice said
The Cup was played in a best-of-three format, with the first game going to Australia. New Zealand equalised in the second match, setting up a thrilling decider on the third day. In a closely contested final, New Zealand came out on top with a 59-54 victory.
Mixed netball is familiar territory for Brice, who plays for the Western Wolves back in Sydney during the off-season. She finds the challenge playing alongside and against men both exciting and rewarding.
“The boys bring a different element to the game which is equal parts exciting, fast and physical. The mixed game brings together the best parts of both the men’s and the women’s game cohesively and it’s fantastic to see the product put out on court.”
Brice believes her experience in mixed netball has drastically influenced her development as a player.
“Playing with and against the men for half the netball season has helped shape my game into what I’ve been able to put out on court.” She continued.
Looking ahead to 2025, Brice will return to the Blaze for her sixth consecutive season, bringing her international experience with her on the court.
And it’s not just the competition that Brice is looking forward to returning to at Blaze, explaining she’s loved seeing the growth and success of the club over the years.
“Being a part of the inaugural team and having the opportunity to develop a culture from the ground up is always exciting, but I believe the buy-in from those entering Blaze every year has cemented what a strong culture we [have been] able to build.”
Just as Brice has found herself representing at an international level, she’s loved witnessing the progress of her fellow teammates, many who have also graced representative selection.
“It’s been exciting to see the development of the athletes across both teams which has allowed them selection into state and national teams… I cannot wait to see what next season will bring for each and every player.”
With 2025 preseason kicking off soon, Brice is excited for what the new season has in store for the franchise.
“Our roster for 2025 is going to be an exciting mix of age and experience as well as the addition of some young and exciting players to bring something new to the court, and with the likes of Marj at the reins it’s going to be exciting to see how the team gels next year.”
