With just four rounds of the 2017 Super Netball season remaining, the Thunderbirds treated their fans to the ultimate Girl’s Night Out on Saturday.
After a hard-fought start to the season, an evening of pampering and indulgence at the Glam Aviary – as part of the pregame festivities – went down a treat for the Thunderbirds’ supporters who were out in force and ready to inspire their team ahead of a crucial match up with the NSW Swifts.
The grounds of Titanium Stadium were given a chic transformation, with fairy lights, gorgeous blooms from Petite de Flower and a pop-up bar stocking local brands, marking the entrance to the Glam Aviary that was hosted by Adelady.
When we arrived there was less than an hour until game time and the aviary was buzzing with excitement. Making our way through the crowds,we stopped by each of the three bespoke tepees from Boutique Tents Special Events where fans were getting glammed up. The cosy tents might have looked small from the outside, but inside, the pop up beauty salons were a hive of activity.
Fans queued up to visit Make-up Artist Soph Ruston who added some stunning glitter detail to their makeup. While in the next tent, the team from My Style Bar took their braiding to the next level, producing a host of creative hair styles and braids.
After enjoying a cheese platter with fresh fruit, we headed inside as the Thunderbirds’ anthem ‘Thunderstruck’ rung out through the stadium. The crowd got behind the Thunderbirds as they enjoyed a strong start and led by six points at end of the first quarter. The Swifts came back firing and by half time NSW held a two-point lead over the Thunderbirds, 25-23.
Momentum built during the second half of the game. The Thunderbirds’ fans were relentless in their support as the Thunderbirds rallied with just four points the difference with three minutes left in the fourth quarter. Despite a fast-paced finish, the Thunderbirds fell three goals short of a win, finishing 51-48.
A huge congratulations to former Thunderbird Maddy Proud who was awarded Player of the Match/Vivian Bullwinkle Medal!
Images: Sports in Focus & Taylah Minchington