Simply the best

Queensland Firebird and Australian Diamonds player, Laura Geitz recently visited Richlands for a speaking engagement with the Lakers Netball Club. Members young and old gathered at the club’s new training grounds, the CJ Greenfields sport complex to meet one of netball’s best young players.

During one of her only two nights break a week from intensive training, Geitz chooses to spend her time motivating aspiring netballers (or hyperactive young girls and their intimidating ‘netball mums’) and doesn’t seem even slightly reluctant.

This 24 year old star athlete, motivational speaker and all round top chick, spends a lot of her time speaking with not only up and coming stars of the competitive sport, but those with just a general passion for netball. As materialistic as it is, at first glance, and second, and third, you can’t help but be blown away by her extremely good looks, not to mention her bulging (but elegant) biceps. However Geitz, while focused, isn’t self absorbed by her talents and many successes, but is actually a kind, grounded person. Almost as tall in grade 8 as she is now (186cm) Geitz, with the addition of braces, found difficulty fitting in. Now with the envy of thousands of girls and woman, determination has clearly taken her far. Her story detailed relatable struggles for young girls and even tails of pets and her upcoming wedding, filling the room with giggles and awwwws. 

The humble player accredits her persistence and drive for success to the support and guidance of her family. Throughout the night a recurring message to ‘do your best and forget the rest’ was offered as the same motivation Geitz was given by her father. As she explained and quite clearly practices, the advice can be used in all areas of life, not just netball.

Learning to play at the reasonably late age of 14, Geitz didn’t follow the usual path to professional netball. However continuing to play out of pure enjoyment and because ‘netball had prettier shoes’, her natural talent flourished. Although growing up in the small country town of Allora had its setbacks, in being noticed by national selectors, Geitz continued to make state and national representative teams before accepting the amazing opportunity to train at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS).

Now with growing stardom as well as a gold World Championships medal, silver Commonwealth Games medal, an undefeated ANZ premiership and copious awards, Geitz is a specialist coach, runs her own coaching clinics and speaking engagements, and has recently developed a new clothing range. There is no denying that this wonder woman has done her best, regardless of the rest.