Silver Ferns’ amazing sisterhood

They may have narrowly lost out in a hard-fought battle for the Netball World Cup this year, but Silver Ferns stunners Maria Tutaia, Katrina Grant and Casey Kopua are still queens of the court in our eyes!

We chatted to the talented trio before their final match against Australia to get the goss on their off-court antics and their close bond.

“It’s nice to be reminded that we are in fact girls, and we love getting all glam from time to time,” says Katrina, 28.

The trio are more likely to be found in sports gear than all glammed up, but they look like naturals in front of the camera!

The women have forged a fast friendship over many years of competing together, and Katrina says the three of them are family.

“These girls, honestly, are amazing,” says Maria, 28.

“It’s hard to describe, but when you’ve been through what we’ve been through…”

“The three of us get along like a house on fire,” Katrina adds.

“They’re very, very special friendships,” Katrina says.

Captain Casey says both Maria and Katrina are “easy-going” but have a definite competitive streak.

Katrina says it’s what fans don’t know about her fellow teammates that really make them click.

She describes Maria as “generous”, “family-oriented” and “funny”, despite the “stone-cold” demeanour she often displays during games.

Meanwhile, Katrina reveals Casey was her first-ever rommmate – making her “just a little bit tidier!”

The trio have formed a close-knit sisterhood.

They’ve even got nicknames for each other – Case, Ria and Pole.

Their unique bond was forged after more than 10 years playing netball together, as well as the tough times they’ve weathered along the way.

“We’ve been through hell and back,” Maria says.

“Last year was a tough year not just for myself, but for everyone,” Maria says.

It has been a difficult road for the Ferns, with high-profile losses to arch-rivals Australia as well as career-threatening injuries for Maria and Casey.

However, the girls know their friendship and determination will see them through any challenges ahead.

Katrina Grant

“We can lean on each other when we need to,” Casey says.

In this week’s issue, Maria also opened up about her newfound positivity after battling through one of the toughest periods in her career.

“I realised I wasn’t enjoying the little things,” she told Woman’s Day. “I lost my joy and had to change.”