Mail brings good news for Barr

The former North Warrnambool Eagles netballer was yesterday chosen to represent Victoria at the national tournament in Adelaide in April.

She is no stranger to the competition, being part of the winning under 17 championship team two years ago.

But this year’s selection was far from automatic. All her hopes were pinned on the postman.

“I actually received a letter to let me know I made the team, which was a bit hard out here in the country because we get the mail a day late,” Barr, 18, said.

“But then I saw a big thick envelope and I knew I’d made it.

“They said at training if you got a little, thin envelope it wouldn’t be good news.”

The mid-courter played last season with Geelong Cougars in the VNL.

She has overcome a twisted pelvis, which impacted her performance at the 2008 championships.

Barr said she was feeling refreshed and ready to give her all at this year’s competition.

“My confidence has come back and I have really learned a lot in the pre-season through our new coach,” she said.

“It (twisted pelvis) was a chronic injury. In 2008 (at the nationals) it was giving me a bit of soreness.

“The physios were working on it all the time but now I am on top of things.

“I’m ready to go back and defend (the championship title).”

Barr will play in Victoria’s under 19 side. She said the team had changed little to the 2008 under 17 championship team.

The teenager was not feeling any pressure or expectation.

“We are a good side. All the other teams will go in hard against us,” Barr said.

“There is a rivalry between Victoria and NSW. People know they’re the teams to beat.

“It gives us a bit of confidence that everyone is thinking about our team.”

Another North Warrnambool Eagles netballer is set to take to the court at the nationals.

Eliza Dwyer will play in the state’s under 17 side.

Barr was thrilled for Dwyer.

“It will be great experience for her. North Warrnambool has done pretty well,” she said.

The championships will be held from April 7 to 12.