Erikana Pedersen on winning, losing & what really builds a team

Q.What have you learned about winning and losing?

The people around you make all the difference, win or lose. Losing teaches humility, and winning is about celebrating with your teammates who you have worked so hard with over the season.

Q.What is your advice for netballers — club, school or professional?

You have to be enjoying yourself. The best way to foster that is to make sure your body is ready. Maintaining mental and physical health is critical.

Q.What is so special about the Christchurch netball environment?

Christchurch and the South Island is unique. It is like entering another country when you travel from the North Island. The netball here is a more ‘dogged’ style of play. The supporters are a bit like that too. They are super passionate and so, so loyal.

Q.What is so special about touring as a team?

My time touring through netball has taught me so much. It has been vital for me as a player and a person. Some of my most memorable moments over my career have been experiencing different cultures and meeting wonderful people. The opportunities for making off-court connections on tours are so much greater.

“The opportunities for making off-court connections on tours are so much greater.

Q.What has captaincy taught you about yourself, and about handling pressure?

My role really is to be like the glue that brings people together. The first person I need to lead is myself — by maintaining professional standards and focusing on my own role before supporting others. I basically handle pressure by building confidence that is built through successful repetitions at training.

“My role really is to be like the glue that brings people together.

Q.How do you build a successful team?

Making good selections is the key. Picking selfless, team-orientated, and coachable individuals is what makes the difference. Strong off-court connections, fostered through activities like ‘wingman’ pairings and small, light-hearted team-building exercises, are often more important than having star players.

Q.And what can you say about Total Sports Tours?

I have been around Phil and his team for a few years now. We love connecting with the groups they host. I have no doubt they are having the time of their lives on their tour, with great games, coaching and activities. We have seen them at our games and training sessions, and Donna, our coach, has even coached a few of them. Total Sports Tours are doing a top job.

‍