Mahalia Cassidy plays Centre and Wing Defence with the Sunshine Coast Lightning and is regarded as one of the fittest players in the Suncorp Super Netball competition.
Mahalia is described by her teammates as a 'workhorse'. She is consistent, never gives up and is safe with the ball in hand.
How would you describe the role of Centre in a team?
The centre role is the primary connection linking the attack end to the defence end and back again. The centre works in close partnership with the Wing Defence to apply pressure on attackers and slow ball movement for the circle defence. In offensive situations, the centre fills a trailing and supporting role with the Wing Attack while delivering passes to shooters in the circle.
What is your favourite thing about playing Centre?
Mahalia describes a love-hate relationship with the repeated efforts required in the position. She values being involved across the entire court and making an impact throughout gameplay.
Training intensity and game day performance
Mahalia approaches training with high intensity and energy, believing this translates directly into match performance through habit formation. She acknowledges difficult training days when fatigued or sleep-deprived, and emphasises the importance of perseverance and drawing energy from teammates during challenging sessions.
Off-season fitness
Previously, her off-seasons involved knee rehabilitation from injuries. In a recent off-season with extended time away from netball, she focused on strength and power training for injury prevention while maintaining flexibility through pilates, walking, and recreational riding.
Favourite quote
"Work and you'll get what you need; work harder and you'll get what you want."
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