Laura Geitz says it's how normal, not miraculous, her return from maternity leave to play in the Commonwealth Games is that should inspire the next generation of Australian netballers.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Queensland defender and former Australian captain will play in April's Games despite missing the past Super Netball season and not playing for Australia since 2015.
While the 30-year-old admitted balancing motherhood and professional sport had not been easy, the selfless former captain said it was the normalisation of her return that should be celebrated.
"You pack his bag, his pram, throw everything in the car and get halfway down the road and realise that you forgot your joggers," Geitz said of life with son Barney, who was born last February.
Her transition has been made easier by Super Netball's new parental care policy, which provides athletes with carers while travelling for matches, private health contributions and a guaranteed two-year contract in the event of injury or pregnancy.
"Women return to the workplace with children and I hope this sends a message to our next generation of netballers coming through that you can do this and there is a great support network there from our sport allowing it," she said.
Geitz, who will chase her second gold medal in what will be her third Commonwealth Games, said she didn't have to look far for inspiration.
"I'm not the first mother to return to the game ... our assistant coach Margie Caldow captained the 1978 Diamonds with two children," she said.
Geitz's former teammate Renae Ingles played the 2017 Super Netball season after twins.
Janine Ilitch returned for the 2006 Commonwealth Games after impressing in selection trials just three months after her second child, while current Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander was part of the Australian squad and completed a university degree after children.
"I love that about Lisa; she hasn't made this a big deal, just said to take it in your stride," Geitz said.
"That's been a calming influence."
Geitz was given the opportunity to press her case for selection at a training camp last month before the side departed for a tour of England and South Africa.
It was there, despite a few nerves and a rusty start, she convinced Alexander she would be of value alongside impressive rookie goalkeeper Courtney Bruce.
"I'm thrilled to be back in the team; there's definitely been times when I didn't think this moment would happen and I'm exceptionally grateful," Geitz said.
