QAI talks to coach Genevieve Gibson about the Dropbears world cup campaign

Genevieve Gibson was chosen as coach of the Australian Dropbears late last year, taking on the role of helping to manage the team, organise training camps, and plan the quest for gold in Germany. The introduction of the training camps has been especially helpful, helping to change the dropbears from a group of individual players to a team.Gibson said that "the training camps were perhaps the best change we made to the process, compared to last global games. They have allowed the team to train as one and to also get to know each other as players and people. They know how the other players move, pass, beat, and make decisions."This has seen the team go from 21 talented athletes, to 21 team players that can work with anyone else within the 21. The cohesion we have is one of our biggest strengths coming into the World Cup."

One of the largest challenges for Australia will be how the team copes on an international stage. "The team has not played together at an international level yet. Every country has sent their best 21, I have no doubt that there are going to be some hard won victories during the cup." she said.For Gisbon, training the Dropbears has been an absolute privilege; she had this to say: "The most rewarding part of coaching the team has been watching the players grow and improve as athletes. Every single player has improved leaps and bounds since selection and their dedication and determination will never cease to amaze me. It has been a privilege to be able to work with such talented and genuinely kind and caring players."Follow the Australian Dropbears here -https://www.facebook.com/events/252367068481321