Former Australian Diamonds captain Laura Geitz has been immortalised in bronze, in recognition of her contribution to Queensland netball.
Unveiled at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Geitz becomes the first female athlete honoured with a life-sized statue in Queensland.
Speaking at the unveiling on behalf of Netball Australia and Netball Queensland, Diamonds head coach Lisa Alexander said Geitz knew when to stand up in the big moments and is a true leader.
“Laura is a big-time performer. She always gets the job done when the pressure is on, rising to the occasion for her teammates and her country. Her success has always been about the ‘we’.”
The former Australian captain played 64 test matches for her country, including 29 Tests as captain, with just three losses at the helm.
“Laura is leadership personified, of her country, her hometown and Queensland.” said Alexander.
“On behalf of the Netball Family, I am absolutely thrilled that Laura’s achievements have been recognised in this manner, it is a fitting tribute for a truly inspirational woman.” she said.
Geitz played 155 national league games, including captaining the Firebirds to two grand final titles, both thrilling contests, with last year’s grand final determined in double extra time.
Fans can view the 2.6 metre statue at the entrance of the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said Laura and the Firebirds have taken netball to a whole new level.
“Her captaincy especially in last year’s grand final was truly inspirational,”
“As a champion netballer, Laura is a stand-out athlete and a wonderful role model deserving of every tribute, every accolade,”
“She’s the shining, proud face of netball at a time when the game and women’s sport in general are enjoying unprecedented public support.”
“While we have statues around Brisbane of several of our male sporting heroes – including one of the great masters of the hoop, basketballer Leroy Loggins – Laura is the first of many champion Queensland sportswomen to be recognised this way,” the Premier said.
Article Source: www.netball.com.au/geitz-immortalised-in-bronze/
