Gliders Set for Osaka Cup Test
With women’s wheelchair basketball set for a new era under head coach David Gould, three WA athletes have been included in his first squad as the Gliders prepare for next month’s Osaka Cup.
Gould’s squad includes London Paralympians Amber Merritt and Sarah Vinci, whilst the WA pair will be joined by fellow West Aussie Georgia Inglis in the 12-strong Australian squad.
After winning silver at the London Games in 2012, the Australian women’s team missed qualification for the Rio Paralympics and are now looking to reinforce themselves as a threat on the world stage.
Australia will play Great Britain, the Netherlands and hosts Japan at the Osaka Cup, with coach Gould looking forward to taking charge of a talent group of athletes.
“With a mix of experience and young developing players we are looking forward to playing a quick up-tempo transition style of play and tough physical defence,” he said.
“This tournament will give the new look Australian Gliders team and new coaching staff a great opportunity to gain valuable international experience against some great world class teams. We always enjoy visiting Osaka and playing in this very well run tournament.”
With qualification for the World Championships set for later in the year, Gould is embracing the opportunity to tackle two of the best teams in the world, whilst also getting an early look at a Japan team that will aim to block its way in reaching the 2018 titles.
“We are looking to be very competitive and continue to improve this group while the Osaka Cup will be a great opportunity to continue to work on team structures that we put in place at the October camp.
“We are also looking forward to a great hit out against Japan, who will be one of the teams we will need to beat at the qualifiers in November.”
Osaka Cup Gliders Schedule:
February 9: Australia vs. Great Britain at 12.30pm
February 10: Australia vs. Netherlands at 9.00am
February 10: Australia vs. Japan at 5.15pm
February 11: Bronze medal game at 10am, gold medal game at 12.30pm