Hankin Predicts Fast Start For Northumbria

Hotshot Sophie Hankin is confident Team Northumbria can set the pace in this weekend’s inaugural British Fast 5 All-Stars event.

The former Hertfordshire Mavericks favourite has been honing her long-range shooting at Sport Central this week.

And Hankin admitted that her eyes are firmly fixed on the five-point line as she chases glory at London’s O2 Arena.

“I’ve played Fast 5s Netball once but I don’t remember too much about it,” admitted the part-time personal trainer. “It’s been a case of going back to school.

“From an attacking point of view it’s all about hitting shots from range and I’ve been practicing my long bombs. My background in basketball helps.”

Hankin and her TN team-mates were put through their paces by playcaller TeAroha Keenan last weekend in anticipation of a Fast 5s baptism of fire.

And a double training session provided the perfect opportunity for Worldwide All-Star pick Erena Mikaere to bed in before the real action starts.

“I think it’s going to go well for us in London,” added Hankin. “We’ve got a great looking team. There are the Northern Ireland girls and Erena has flown in off the back of winning the Suncorp Super Netball title in Australia and New Zealand.

“I know we have the potential to perform really well.”

Legendary Silver Fern Daneka Tuineau jets into Tyneside later this week after performing in France’s professional basketball league last weekend.

And her arrival will complete Keenan’s line-up ahead of Saturday’s trip into the unknown.

Hankin is convinced those players with a basketball background will have an advantage and hopes hoops fans will embrace netball’s fast-paced offshoot.

“I’d like to think that the Fast 5s will open up netball to a new audience,” she added. “Even having the Fast 5s on the same weekend as the Basketball All-Stars could be good for both sports. I don’t think many basketball fans really understand netball and how fast-paced it can be. This will give them a good idea.”