Laura Clemesha: Role of a goal keeper and combating tall shooters

Former Queensland Firebirds player Laura Clemesha shares insights into the goal keeper position and strategies for defending against tall shooters.

The goal keeper position

The goal keeper carries significant defensive responsibility as 'the last line of defence, as the ball comes sailing down the court.' That challenge intensifies when facing elite shooters like Romelda Aiken and Jhaniele Fowler from Suncorp Super Netball.

Role description

Laura describes the goal keeper's primary function as: 'Take the shooter out of the game as an attacking option, and be the anchor for the defensive end.'

What she enjoys

Laura jokes she appreciates not requiring extensive court coverage. More seriously, she values 'the challenge of reading the play as the opposition brings the ball down the court.'

Strategy against tall shooters

To combat tall shooters, Laura recommends using 'quick, small steps to keep moving around them. By continually changing position (side, front, side, back),' defenders can confuse the feeder regarding ball placement to the shooter.

Personal philosophy

Her favourite quote reflects her coaching philosophy: "The world is changed by your example, not your opinion."