The Australian Handball Federation [AHF] congratulates the members and officials of the Junior Women’s Team for their admirable participation in the XVI Junior Women’s World Championship. Considering that this was the first time that Australia had participated in the Junior Women’s World Championship, they ought to be proud of what they have achieved.
Although Australia did not reach the level of success it set out to do, it certainly earned the admiration of the handball world for the way the players did not give up fighting up to the end. AHF is also pleased that at the close of the Australia’s last match in the tournament on 2nd August 2008, the Team was ranked second in Team Fair Play.
Australia’s participation also showcased some fantastic handball performances by a number of individual players. One of these players is Sally Potocki, Player No. 8, Left Back position. During the tournament, Sally impressed the spectators and officials with her skilful and energetic performance. Sally finished second top goal scorer with 61 goals, 4 goals behind Denmark’s Camilla Dalby, with 65 goals for the tournament. To highlight the level of Sally’s achievements, it is interesting to note that none of Sally’s goals were scored from 7 metre penalties, compared to Camilla, who scored 11 goals from 7 metre penalties and played one more match than Sally. Also, Sally finished 11th for goals and assists and equal second for Steals in defence during Australia’s participation in the tournament.
Another player who made the tournament’s Top Goalscorer list was Vanja Smiljanic, Player No. 15, Back position. Vanja finished the tournament in equal 25th position with 40 goals and at one stage occupied equal 9th position earlier in the tournament.
Taylee Lewis, Goalkeeper, also shone during the tournament. Taylee finished the tournament on 18th position for saved penalty shots as well as saving goals at crucial moments during the matches played.
AHF recognises that the performance of the three ‘star’ players was made possible by the team work of all the players and the hard work of the officials. AHF also wishes to express its appreciation to JAT airlines for their contribution to the team’s airfares and helping with their pre tournament camp in Belgrade, Serbia.
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For further information, please contact the AHF Media & Public Relations Officer, Violi Calvert by email: [email protected]. or by phone: + 61 408 22 77 94.
