Inside the Slammers: Rituals help success

Slammer's co-captain Kate Fielding shares some insight into preparing for games as the finals loom.

"As we draw closer to the finals our individual game preparation becomes more and more important.

"That includes recovery after games and training, but also eating the right foods and getting enough sleep or rest.

"It also includes game-day traditions or rituals, which most athletes would have and are equally as important.

"These usually involve things like a pre-game nap or eating something specific at a specific time.

"For example, I like to have a big breakfast on game day perfectly paired with an even bigger coffee.

"As for the game, I will divulge that I always wear the same undergarments - as in socks, skins and sports bra. Obviously they are washed after every game, I swear - you can check with my mum.

"My teammates also have their little rituals. Co-captain Rebecca Preston eats a banana and two beroccas (I am assuming dissolved in water, maybe not) on her way to the game.

"Patricia Bright enjoys a typical American breakfast of pancakes and eggs before chilling out and "getting her life right"."