0:00:02 > 0:00:05In just a few days, Scotland's netball team will
0:00:05 > 0:00:08take on the best in the world at the Commonwealth Games.
0:00:09 > 0:00:1312 amateur sportswomen - dentists, police officers
0:00:13 > 0:00:16and teachers who train in their spare time -
0:00:16 > 0:00:20will take the court against elite professional athletes
0:00:20 > 0:00:21from across the globe.
0:00:23 > 0:00:24For the past two years,
0:00:24 > 0:00:28we've been following their journey to the far corners of the Earth...
0:00:29 > 0:00:31That is some welcome!
0:00:31 > 0:00:34..and closer to home,
0:00:34 > 0:00:36through triumphs...
0:00:37 > 0:00:39..defeats...
0:00:39 > 0:00:41It was a bit of a disaster, to be fair.
0:00:41 > 0:00:44..joys...
0:00:44 > 0:00:45That's fantastic.
0:00:45 > 0:00:46..troubles...
0:00:46 > 0:00:48And if you think tonight was your A-game,
0:00:48 > 0:00:51you need to bring your Triple-A-game to trials, please.
0:00:51 > 0:00:52..and tears.
0:00:54 > 0:00:58Hosting the Commonwealth Games is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity
0:00:58 > 0:01:01for Scottish Netball to transform this little-played,
0:01:01 > 0:01:05under-funded sport and try to produce a world-class team.
0:01:06 > 0:01:08This is their story.
0:01:17 > 0:01:18A little bit.
0:01:18 > 0:01:20Just in that very last range.
0:01:20 > 0:01:24Two years to the Commonwealth Games and Scotland's star netballer,
0:01:24 > 0:01:29Lesley MacDonald, is battling an injury that could end her career.
0:01:31 > 0:01:35Without Lesley on court, the team haven't won a match in a year.
0:01:36 > 0:01:41I had ankle surgery 13 weeks ago.
0:01:41 > 0:01:44Wear and tear over the 14 years I've been playing
0:01:44 > 0:01:47at international level has taken its toll.
0:01:47 > 0:01:50I've never had an injury before so it's been frustrating.
0:01:50 > 0:01:54The Commonwealth Games is something that I definitely want
0:01:54 > 0:01:57to be a part of, it's the pinnacle
0:01:57 > 0:02:00of any netballer's career to be involved with.
0:02:00 > 0:02:04It's always going to be my decision to retire, no-one else's,
0:02:04 > 0:02:08and certainly not an injury that is going to make me retire.
0:02:11 > 0:02:15The Scotland squad - the Thistles - are training intensively.
0:02:15 > 0:02:17Denise Holland is the first full-time,
0:02:17 > 0:02:21professional coach Scotland has ever had.
0:02:21 > 0:02:24She's four years into a six-year programme to get the girls
0:02:24 > 0:02:27ready for the Commonwealth Games -
0:02:27 > 0:02:30a job that's pushed her to the limit.
0:02:32 > 0:02:36All coaches make personal sacrifices and I'm a very driven coach.
0:02:36 > 0:02:40I live in Kent, I've travelled every single week to Scotland.
0:02:40 > 0:02:43I've got two children and it's ten, six years,
0:02:43 > 0:02:47really, out of my life, and six years out of theirs
0:02:47 > 0:02:50to be able to get Scottish netball to where it needs to be
0:02:50 > 0:02:51in the Commonwealth Games.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55But that is an uphill struggle.
0:02:55 > 0:02:59Back in the 1980s, the Thistles were sixth in the world.
0:02:59 > 0:03:03Now, they're 15th - a ranking that would not get them
0:03:03 > 0:03:05to the Commonwealth Games on merit.
0:03:05 > 0:03:08To do that, they need to start winning matches
0:03:08 > 0:03:10and fight their way back to at least 12th -
0:03:10 > 0:03:12a key target for Denise.
0:03:14 > 0:03:17Time's running out for her to turn it around.
0:03:22 > 0:03:26Today, the sport's governing body, Netball Scotland,
0:03:26 > 0:03:30are packing up their cramped office in central Glasgow...
0:03:30 > 0:03:31Bye-bye!
0:03:37 > 0:03:40..and moving to the brand-new Emirates Arena,
0:03:40 > 0:03:43built to host the Commonwealth Games.
0:03:44 > 0:03:46The cards let us into the building.
0:03:47 > 0:03:50Maggie Murray has been tempted out of retirement
0:03:50 > 0:03:52to lead Scottish netball to the Games.
0:03:56 > 0:03:59A wee picnic out for everybody.
0:03:59 > 0:04:02She's under pressure to use this unique opportunity
0:04:02 > 0:04:04to grow the sport.
0:04:04 > 0:04:07It's overwhelming at times.
0:04:07 > 0:04:11It's a small sport, there has been considerable
0:04:11 > 0:04:15investment from Sport Scotland to bring us to where we are now.
0:04:16 > 0:04:20We've got to build netball from the bottom again in Scotland,
0:04:20 > 0:04:23because it's gone to sleep over the last 15 years,
0:04:23 > 0:04:26and we've lost out in many areas, so we've a lot to catch up on,
0:04:26 > 0:04:28and I think that's all possible.
0:04:34 > 0:04:37To try to raise the profile of netball,
0:04:37 > 0:04:40Maggie has enlisted expert help.
0:04:42 > 0:04:44I can't really hear you at the back, darling.
0:04:44 > 0:04:48I have traditionally worked in the hospitality industry,
0:04:48 > 0:04:50so how I've come back to netball, I don't know,
0:04:50 > 0:04:55but I think that you can get drawn back to things that you love.
0:04:56 > 0:05:00Today, Claire Nelson is meeting a sports bra manufacturer
0:05:00 > 0:05:03to try to negotiate a sponsorship deal.
0:05:03 > 0:05:05If she succeeds, this will be a rare
0:05:05 > 0:05:09and much-needed commercial sponsor for Scottish Netball.
0:05:10 > 0:05:12I thought this could be really great product to use,
0:05:12 > 0:05:15because it's one of our bestselling sports bras...
0:05:15 > 0:05:17- In Scotland colours! - ..in Scotland colours.
0:05:17 > 0:05:20'This meeting is incredibly important, as is every meeting
0:05:20 > 0:05:23'and every conversation I now have with any potential partners'
0:05:23 > 0:05:26and supporters, whether they are contributing financially
0:05:26 > 0:05:30or in terms of products in kind or PR, or whatever it is,
0:05:30 > 0:05:36because we cannot achieve what we need to achieve without support.
0:05:37 > 0:05:39I'm excited!
0:05:39 > 0:05:42I think they're great, I like them as individuals,
0:05:42 > 0:05:44they're passionate, I like their energy,
0:05:44 > 0:05:47and I think we can do some really good stuff together.
0:05:47 > 0:05:48So I'm excited!
0:05:57 > 0:05:59Claire Brownie's life is netball.
0:05:59 > 0:06:03One of Scotland's top players, she also works full-time
0:06:03 > 0:06:06as a PE teacher and coaches the school club at night.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13Claire grew up on a farm in Aberdeenshire.
0:06:13 > 0:06:17Her mother, Norma, also plays netball and coached her as a child.
0:06:20 > 0:06:23When they were playing at primary school,
0:06:23 > 0:06:26it was reasonably fun, really, at that age,
0:06:26 > 0:06:29but she showed her talent.
0:06:29 > 0:06:35Claire's room, which, as you can see, is pretty...all netball stuff.
0:06:36 > 0:06:38There's a big difference in the children,
0:06:38 > 0:06:41because I think you can see the ones who are naturally talented
0:06:41 > 0:06:45at sports, and the ones that need the help to develop.
0:06:45 > 0:06:49But Claire, she was quite determined to win those balls
0:06:49 > 0:06:52in front of her team-mates.
0:06:52 > 0:06:57It's just a cap that they got for playing for their country.
0:06:57 > 0:07:00It's amazing that they manage to fit everything in,
0:07:00 > 0:07:02all their training.
0:07:02 > 0:07:04And it's always the first thing, you know,
0:07:04 > 0:07:08when she comes up here it's always, "Right, I'm off to the gym."
0:07:09 > 0:07:12Sometimes when your alarm goes off at 5:45,
0:07:12 > 0:07:15you think, "Oh, an extra wee half-hour would be great,"
0:07:15 > 0:07:17but, no, you've always got the end goal in your mind
0:07:17 > 0:07:20and you know you've got to do it because everyone else is doing it.
0:07:20 > 0:07:22And because there's a group of us it makes it easier
0:07:22 > 0:07:25because you know everyone else will be at training
0:07:25 > 0:07:27so you can't be that person that lets the team down.
0:07:27 > 0:07:31That makes it a lot easier, I think, being part of a team sport.
0:07:34 > 0:07:38The Thistles are training for a major test of their progress.
0:07:39 > 0:07:42They're going to the South Pacific to play
0:07:42 > 0:07:45a series of international matches in the Cook Islands and Samoa.
0:07:47 > 0:07:51If they win, they'll move towards that crucial 12th place.
0:07:51 > 0:07:55If they don't, Denise could lose her job.
0:07:55 > 0:07:57It comes down to results,
0:07:57 > 0:08:01and I totally recognise that we should be sitting around 10, 11
0:08:01 > 0:08:03right now in the world, and we're not.
0:08:03 > 0:08:06Netball Scotland have applied the pressure in terms of
0:08:06 > 0:08:09questioning whether or not I'm the person for the job.
0:08:09 > 0:08:13And it is a pressure which, you know, I haven't particularly
0:08:13 > 0:08:18enjoyed, but I'm a national coach and that's part of my job.
0:08:20 > 0:08:24Team Captain Lesley will go on the tour.
0:08:24 > 0:08:27But whether she will have recovered enough from surgery to play
0:08:27 > 0:08:29is not yet certain.
0:08:30 > 0:08:33It's hard to kind of keep your emotions in check,
0:08:33 > 0:08:36and there are times I've cried all the way home in the car,
0:08:36 > 0:08:38because it's just been one of those days,
0:08:38 > 0:08:42either work's been difficult and I've come onto the court
0:08:42 > 0:08:44and done some stuff and it's not been where I wanted it to be,
0:08:44 > 0:08:45and it's just...
0:08:45 > 0:08:50Yeah, it has been quite an emotional roller coaster.
0:08:51 > 0:08:56For both captain and coach, the Pacific Tour will either make
0:08:56 > 0:09:00or break their hopes of leading the team to the Commonwealth Games.
0:09:08 > 0:09:10- Very excited.- Super excited.
0:09:10 > 0:09:13Not a lot of sleep last night.
0:09:13 > 0:09:16Getting organised, but all set now, so looking forward to it.
0:09:16 > 0:09:19It is the first time that I've had away, the first, like,
0:09:19 > 0:09:22really long haul flight, so I'm really excited about it.
0:09:23 > 0:09:25The tour will cost £45,000 -
0:09:25 > 0:09:28a massive sum for an amateur sport.
0:09:30 > 0:09:32To justify it, the girls need to win matches
0:09:32 > 0:09:35and begin to move up the world rankings to 12th.
0:09:37 > 0:09:40It is a challenge, absolutely a challenge.
0:09:40 > 0:09:42You know, all of our athletes are
0:09:42 > 0:09:45in full-time employment or education,
0:09:45 > 0:09:49and myself, I'm a full-time accountant, as well,
0:09:49 > 0:09:52so it is very hard to work with that,
0:09:52 > 0:09:55but, you know, these guys work miracles with the little funding
0:09:55 > 0:09:59that we do have, and we've made it happen, and it's very exciting.
0:10:03 > 0:10:05First stop on the tour is New Zealand.
0:10:08 > 0:10:12Here, netball is huge, second only to rugby in popularity.
0:10:13 > 0:10:18It's a professional sport with multi-million dollar sponsorship.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21The athletes are superstars.
0:10:23 > 0:10:24- COMMENTATOR:- The noise is deafening!
0:10:25 > 0:10:29Being a netballer in New Zealand is the highest profile
0:10:29 > 0:10:34sport for women in New Zealand, so it is on television very often.
0:10:34 > 0:10:38You walk down the street and everyone recognises you,
0:10:38 > 0:10:42and I think it's because we are on TV at least once a week,
0:10:42 > 0:10:47it makes us quite a household name, and you inspire people.
0:10:47 > 0:10:48That is quite lovely.
0:10:49 > 0:10:51Netball, it's the number one sport in New Zealand.
0:10:51 > 0:10:54If you have a look at it, we go from primary school,
0:10:54 > 0:10:56it just develops all the way through,
0:10:56 > 0:10:57and that takes time.
0:10:57 > 0:11:01We've got a wonderful competition, I think that's what's helped a lot,
0:11:01 > 0:11:04the Ainslie Champs, so all your top players are playing
0:11:04 > 0:11:07week in, week out, and that is something that Scotland lacks.
0:11:09 > 0:11:10COMMENTATOR: What a finish!
0:11:10 > 0:11:14What a finish! The stars shine on New Zealand!
0:11:18 > 0:11:22The Thistles are training hard, and they've picked up a new player.
0:11:23 > 0:11:28I was playing over in the Super League season in the UK this year,
0:11:28 > 0:11:29and travelled a bit up to Scotland
0:11:29 > 0:11:32to see my family, my mum's side of the family,
0:11:32 > 0:11:33she was born in Scotland,
0:11:33 > 0:11:35so I had a bit of a training session
0:11:35 > 0:11:37with the team at a trial,
0:11:37 > 0:11:39and it turns out they needed an extra player for this
0:11:39 > 0:11:42Pacific series, so it came about pretty suddenly, I suppose,
0:11:42 > 0:11:45so it's been really exciting, definitely.
0:11:45 > 0:11:50If Denise has her way, Rachel will become a permanent fixture.
0:11:50 > 0:11:54Rachel's hoping to move to Scotland to look at selection towards
0:11:54 > 0:11:56the Commonwealth Games in 2014,
0:11:56 > 0:12:00so it's just a case of her finding herself a job in Scotland.
0:12:00 > 0:12:03But she would be a huge asset to the Scotland team.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07Next stop, the Cook Islands.
0:12:07 > 0:12:10The team will play a tournament against the Cooks and Wales,
0:12:10 > 0:12:12both ranked higher than Scotland.
0:12:14 > 0:12:18To start climbing towards 12th spot, Scotland need to win.
0:12:20 > 0:12:22We're not coming away with anything less, really.
0:12:22 > 0:12:26- No, we really want to win this one. - It is a win or... You know.
0:12:26 > 0:12:29Well, we will win. No question.
0:12:29 > 0:12:32I feel ready. We're ready to win now.
0:12:32 > 0:12:33Definitely.
0:12:40 > 0:12:41That's some welcome!
0:12:43 > 0:12:45The media pounce on the visiting squads,
0:12:45 > 0:12:49and even the Prime Minister invites them for breakfast.
0:12:51 > 0:12:56Netball is a very popular sport among the womenfolk of this country.
0:12:56 > 0:13:00And any politician ignores that at his or her peril.
0:13:00 > 0:13:02Once upon a time we were third in the world.
0:13:02 > 0:13:05We were the Pacific Queens of netball.
0:13:05 > 0:13:07But we're, what, tenth now?
0:13:07 > 0:13:10So we're trying to rebuild that back up.
0:13:10 > 0:13:13Actually, we're 13th. But we love our netball here.
0:13:14 > 0:13:17The first match is against the Cook Islands.
0:13:19 > 0:13:21It's a tense moment for the Scots.
0:13:21 > 0:13:23In terms of me personally,
0:13:23 > 0:13:25I know that there is an enormous amount of pressure,
0:13:25 > 0:13:29I suppose, to get results,
0:13:29 > 0:13:32but I really want them to feel success, it's really important,
0:13:32 > 0:13:35and I really do believe that if they start to feel success
0:13:35 > 0:13:36then they will be away.
0:13:36 > 0:13:39This will be a turning point in their,
0:13:39 > 0:13:42if you like, their journey now towards the Commonwealth Games.
0:13:50 > 0:13:54For this vital match, Lesley has made it back on court.
0:13:57 > 0:13:59And the Thistles storm through
0:13:59 > 0:14:02with their first international win in 17 months.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08- ANNOUNCER:- And our final score for tonight,
0:14:08 > 0:14:11Scotland 55, Cook islands 25.
0:14:11 > 0:14:13I think everyone performed out of their skins,
0:14:13 > 0:14:15everyone put in a really good performance
0:14:15 > 0:14:17and as a team it seemed to just come together.
0:14:17 > 0:14:21It was just an absolute privilege to be out with these guys tonight,
0:14:21 > 0:14:24really, the rewards just seeped in there
0:14:24 > 0:14:26and we're absolutely delighted with the win.
0:14:28 > 0:14:29SINGING
0:14:31 > 0:14:33Sunday is a day of rest in the Cooks.
0:14:41 > 0:14:43The squad make the most of it.
0:14:48 > 0:14:54Trying to find what's dry and what's not, and claiming back what's mine.
0:14:55 > 0:14:58But netball and their quest to improve
0:14:58 > 0:15:01is never far from their minds.
0:15:01 > 0:15:03If we get good results against the Cooks,
0:15:03 > 0:15:05against Wales tonight and then against Samoa,
0:15:05 > 0:15:09we'll hopefully be in a position that we should be in
0:15:09 > 0:15:12and not sitting at 15th, where we currently are just now.
0:15:14 > 0:15:17Their next match is against Wales - tenth in the world.
0:15:19 > 0:15:24We know that we are a bit of their arch nemesis.
0:15:24 > 0:15:28Every time we've played them in the last three years we've beaten them.
0:15:28 > 0:15:31So, you know, tonight's game is going to be...
0:15:31 > 0:15:34They're going to come out all guns blazing.
0:15:34 > 0:15:40We know that and we wouldn't expect anything less from Scotland,
0:15:40 > 0:15:42so we're looking forward to it.
0:15:42 > 0:15:44# Mighty, mighty, mighty, mighty, mighty, mighty, Scotland!
0:15:44 > 0:15:47- ALL:- # Mighty, mighty, mighty, mighty, mighty, mighty, Scotland! #
0:15:55 > 0:15:57For the first three quarters, it's neck and neck.
0:16:01 > 0:16:0515 minutes to go, and there's only one point between them.
0:16:11 > 0:16:14But, in the final quarter, Scotland crumble.
0:16:14 > 0:16:17They lose by 15 points.
0:16:18 > 0:16:21ANNOUNCER: And your full-time scores,
0:16:21 > 0:16:23Wales 48, Scotland 34.
0:16:25 > 0:16:28We kept driving, the timing was fantastic for the Scotland girls,
0:16:28 > 0:16:32and in the last quarter, they let themselves down and were unable to finish it.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35For me, for my goal, it was to come out there and play
0:16:35 > 0:16:38with the success and the ability I know I have,
0:16:38 > 0:16:41and unfortunately for that last quarter it just wasn't there,
0:16:41 > 0:16:43so for me that wasn't an accomplishment at all,
0:16:43 > 0:16:45it was a bit of a disaster, to be fair.
0:16:48 > 0:16:52In their final match against the Cook Islands, Lesley cannot play.
0:16:54 > 0:16:57This time, the Cooks up their game and win.
0:16:59 > 0:17:06ANNOUNCER: And the full-time score, Cook Islands 36, Scotland 31.
0:17:06 > 0:17:10The Thistles go on to play a three-match test series
0:17:10 > 0:17:13against Samoa, currently ranked 12th in the world.
0:17:13 > 0:17:15Scotland win it two to one.
0:17:17 > 0:17:21So, the Scots leave the Pacific with a mixed bag of results.
0:17:22 > 0:17:26The squad take the positives from their first wins in 18 months.
0:17:29 > 0:17:32We're all just thrilled that it all came together at the end there
0:17:32 > 0:17:35and we can just enjoy the success of our tour.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38Learned a lot throughout, it's been quite up and down, but I think
0:17:38 > 0:17:42as a squad we've really gelled well together and we've really enjoyed it.
0:17:43 > 0:17:45We won't know officially for a while yet,
0:17:45 > 0:17:48but it should mean that we go up in the world rankings.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50I think we'd have liked to have beaten the Cooks twice
0:17:50 > 0:17:53but, you know, a narrow defeat, but, nonetheless, we learned
0:17:53 > 0:17:56a lot from that, which we were able to take into the Samoa test series.
0:17:58 > 0:18:02Back at Netball Scotland HQ, the mood is different.
0:18:02 > 0:18:07There are some challenges that still remain in terms of our consistency.
0:18:07 > 0:18:12We have problems with depth and who replaces our experienced players
0:18:12 > 0:18:16when they go down, so there are concerns there still.
0:18:18 > 0:18:22But I think the main thing that I would gather from that tour
0:18:22 > 0:18:25is that we have set another benchmark here,
0:18:25 > 0:18:29and, you know, we should not drop below that now.
0:18:34 > 0:18:36But before they're back in action on court,
0:18:36 > 0:18:39there's a new role for the girls off court.
0:18:41 > 0:18:45Having clinched the sponsorship deal with the sports bra company,
0:18:45 > 0:18:49PR consultant Claire Nelson is on a mission to maximise publicity.
0:18:50 > 0:18:52Good morning!
0:18:55 > 0:18:57The squad must now play their part
0:18:57 > 0:19:00to promote both their sport and their new sponsors.
0:19:07 > 0:19:10But, just as her work to raise the profile of netball
0:19:10 > 0:19:14begins to pay off, there's a huge blow for Claire.
0:19:16 > 0:19:21At a strategy meeting between Netball Scotland and Sport Scotland,
0:19:21 > 0:19:24she learns that funding for her post is running out.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28This is my position we're talking about, you know,
0:19:28 > 0:19:30it's the white elephant on the table.
0:19:30 > 0:19:34I know that what I can bring into the organisation is funding...
0:19:35 > 0:19:39'Conflicts largely arise, you know, because we don't have the resources,
0:19:39 > 0:19:40'but we know someone'
0:19:40 > 0:19:43who will actually bring that sponsorship to us,
0:19:43 > 0:19:46who will bring that investment to us, you know,
0:19:46 > 0:19:50that will enable us to make all of the other things happen,
0:19:50 > 0:19:54and that's why Claire's position is pretty critical at this point.
0:19:54 > 0:19:57You know, step up, take the leap of faith and invest in our sport
0:19:57 > 0:19:59and make it real and make it happen.
0:20:01 > 0:20:03But Sport Scotland won't budge.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06There's to be no new money for Claire.
0:20:07 > 0:20:11She'll have to try to fund her own job by bringing in new sponsors.
0:20:18 > 0:20:21And there's an opportunity to do that soon after
0:20:21 > 0:20:26when Netball Scotland hosts the World Premier Club Challenge.
0:20:26 > 0:20:30You walk in here with a sponsor, it doesn't take us too much to
0:20:30 > 0:20:33persuade them to come on board because they can see where we are,
0:20:33 > 0:20:36they can how professional we want to be,
0:20:36 > 0:20:38they can see where our aspiration is,
0:20:38 > 0:20:43and the heights that we want to reach in order to make this game
0:20:43 > 0:20:48get into the heart and soul of every young girl and woman in this country.
0:20:48 > 0:20:51This isn't just a big day for sponsorship.
0:20:51 > 0:20:53Maggie will be watching to see
0:20:53 > 0:20:57if the costly Pacific Tour has improved the team's performance.
0:20:59 > 0:21:02By the final day, the Scots have yet to win,
0:21:02 > 0:21:06but this is their best chance against Northern Ireland.
0:21:11 > 0:21:14For Denise, it's crunch time.
0:21:14 > 0:21:17Maggie is looking for nothing less than a win
0:21:17 > 0:21:19in front of their home crowd.
0:21:23 > 0:21:25But Northern Ireland score the first goal
0:21:25 > 0:21:2919 seconds into the game and charge ahead of the Scots.
0:21:37 > 0:21:40By the end, Scottish hopes are in tatters.
0:21:40 > 0:21:43CHEERING
0:21:49 > 0:21:51We were outclassed today,
0:21:51 > 0:21:54and we need to go back to our planning and just see.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57We have 18 months left, and we need to make sure that we still
0:21:57 > 0:22:00build the skill base, still build the fitness and the power.
0:22:02 > 0:22:03In a further blow,
0:22:03 > 0:22:07Scotland learn that the mixed results on the Pacific Tour
0:22:07 > 0:22:11have not been enough to improve their world ranking after all.
0:22:14 > 0:22:16Denise resigns as national coach
0:22:16 > 0:22:19by mutual agreement with Netball Scotland.
0:22:22 > 0:22:28The definition of madness for me is to keep doing the same thing
0:22:28 > 0:22:30and expect a different outcome.
0:22:30 > 0:22:34We're not where we should be in terms of our results.
0:22:35 > 0:22:38It's also a pressure from our own board,
0:22:38 > 0:22:41they are asking what's happening with our team?
0:22:41 > 0:22:43Our performances are inconsistent,
0:22:43 > 0:22:47our national squad seemed to struggle, performing in front
0:22:47 > 0:22:51of their home crowd, and we're not drawing audiences in.
0:22:51 > 0:22:53They're looking to me for answers.
0:22:54 > 0:22:58Obviously, when I took the job, it was my goal to be a national coach
0:22:58 > 0:23:01of a side and take them to a major competition.
0:23:01 > 0:23:04And to complete my journey,
0:23:04 > 0:23:08if you like, having not achieved that, it is disappointing for me.
0:23:09 > 0:23:11Certainly, when I came into post,
0:23:11 > 0:23:14the organisation was a very small organisation
0:23:14 > 0:23:17and there was no framework for performance development,
0:23:17 > 0:23:21no structure, really no leadership,
0:23:21 > 0:23:24and now I leave it four and a half years later, there is
0:23:24 > 0:23:28much more in place, and I'm really proud to have built
0:23:28 > 0:23:31the framework for performance development.
0:23:31 > 0:23:34We know she did her absolute best but, at the end of the day,
0:23:34 > 0:23:36it's about THAT performance,
0:23:36 > 0:23:40under pressure, it'll be in the Commonwealth Games, the world
0:23:40 > 0:23:43will be looking in on that, and, under that pressure,
0:23:43 > 0:23:47we have to make sure that we have the right person leading that squad.
0:23:48 > 0:23:5118 months out from the Commonwealth Games,
0:23:51 > 0:23:53and Scotland have no national coach.
0:23:56 > 0:23:58It's obviously a shock when that happens,
0:23:58 > 0:24:01and it was, obviously, a big disappointment for the squad.
0:24:04 > 0:24:08I think what Denise brought was a lot of leadership skills,
0:24:08 > 0:24:09and in this modern time,
0:24:09 > 0:24:11it's probably one of the biggest challenges
0:24:11 > 0:24:15some of us will have to ensure that everyone's still motivated,
0:24:15 > 0:24:16still pushing themselves,
0:24:16 > 0:24:19still trying to achieve to the peak of their abilities,
0:24:19 > 0:24:24even though we don't have that leader in place at the moment.
0:24:24 > 0:24:25Until a new one is found,
0:24:25 > 0:24:29the gap will be filled by volunteer coach Mary Tough.
0:24:29 > 0:24:30Mary has a full-time job
0:24:30 > 0:24:35and already coaches the Scotland under-21 side in her spare time.
0:24:35 > 0:24:40So, it's a huge commitment. But, for the team, it's a lifeline.
0:24:40 > 0:24:42We might not like change,
0:24:42 > 0:24:44but I think it's in all aspects of our lives.
0:24:44 > 0:24:47So, for me, the message back to the players has been, you know,
0:24:47 > 0:24:50let's see this as a positive change,
0:24:50 > 0:24:53it was made by the board for whatever reason, they felt it was
0:24:53 > 0:24:57the right reason so let's just embrace it and move forward.
0:24:59 > 0:25:03Guided by Mary, the girls continue with a training regime
0:25:03 > 0:25:05that must fit around their jobs.
0:25:05 > 0:25:09Mornings, it's an early rise, and straight to the gym.
0:25:09 > 0:25:14Today, up at six o'clock, grab some breakfast, head over to here,
0:25:14 > 0:25:18get through a weight session, quite a short weight session this morning.
0:25:20 > 0:25:24Then grab a quick shower, head over to the south side of Glasgow to work.
0:25:26 > 0:25:29I'm a dentist at a practice over in Shawlands.
0:25:29 > 0:25:32Got lots and lots of patients this morning.
0:25:32 > 0:25:34And quite a busy afternoon as well.
0:25:36 > 0:25:38Then finishing work at about 6pm,
0:25:38 > 0:25:43heading over to the city centre for a wedding dress fitting.
0:25:46 > 0:25:48I'm marrying Gail Higgins,
0:25:48 > 0:25:52who is currently just trying to get back into the Scotland team.
0:25:52 > 0:25:55She's a dental nurse as well, so we work together
0:25:55 > 0:25:59we train together, so it is really good from my point of view,
0:25:59 > 0:26:02in terms of having someone who knows exactly what's involved.
0:26:03 > 0:26:05That's lovely, isn't it?
0:26:05 > 0:26:08Because it's so sturdy, you can't get it right to the sides...
0:26:10 > 0:26:13Several evenings a week, it's back to the stadium
0:26:13 > 0:26:14for a late training session.
0:26:14 > 0:26:16I love playing netball.
0:26:16 > 0:26:19I love playing netball, I love playing netball for my country,
0:26:19 > 0:26:22and that's what it takes, so, that is just the way it is, isn't it?
0:26:25 > 0:26:26On a rare day off,
0:26:26 > 0:26:29veteran player Nicola Collins is meeting up with her dad and her
0:26:29 > 0:26:33brother Neill who's a professional footballer with Sheffield United.
0:26:35 > 0:26:39He's come to the Institute for Sport in Largs for a coaching course.
0:26:39 > 0:26:43The two can't help comparing notes on their sporting lives.
0:26:43 > 0:26:47Often, me and my brother talk about it, and he's just amazed
0:26:47 > 0:26:50that I'm driving home from training knowing that I'm getting up
0:26:50 > 0:26:54to train again, to go to work, when they just need to wake up,
0:26:54 > 0:26:58get to training, and it's... It's not an easy lifestyle,
0:26:58 > 0:27:02but it's a lot easier than a netballer's lifestyle.
0:27:02 > 0:27:06I can't believe how she manages sometimes when I speak to her,
0:27:06 > 0:27:09she's travelling through from Edinburgh to Glasgow after
0:27:09 > 0:27:12a really hard day at work, and an intense session at netball.
0:27:12 > 0:27:16Then the same the following day, then spends her weekends,
0:27:16 > 0:27:20you know, training sessions, and really, they are full-time athletes.
0:27:20 > 0:27:23We hope they can get some success,
0:27:23 > 0:27:26maybe if it's the Commonwealth Games great, but huge respect for her
0:27:26 > 0:27:29and everything she's achieved so far has been phenomenal.
0:27:32 > 0:27:34For Maggie, there's just one priority.
0:27:34 > 0:27:36The search for a new coach.
0:27:36 > 0:27:40The job advert has attracted an outstanding application.
0:27:40 > 0:27:43It's from Gail Parata, a former New Zealand player
0:27:43 > 0:27:47who's tipped as the Kiwis' future national coach.
0:27:48 > 0:27:52When I opened the application, the sense of relief, you know,
0:27:52 > 0:27:53was immense.
0:27:55 > 0:27:59My hand almost shook on the mouse to try and open the document, you know,
0:27:59 > 0:28:02because I knew this was going to be a good one.
0:28:02 > 0:28:05You know, so I only needed to read just a few sentences
0:28:05 > 0:28:10or sections into the application to know our troubles were over,
0:28:10 > 0:28:13and, subject to everything going well with the process
0:28:13 > 0:28:16still in front of us, then tremendous opportunity.
0:28:21 > 0:28:22Closer to home,
0:28:22 > 0:28:26Netball Scotland have a new recruit with Olympic credentials.
0:28:27 > 0:28:29It's a really big, exciting day.
0:28:29 > 0:28:32There's a lot of excited staff out there in the office
0:28:32 > 0:28:34because we are welcoming our new patron,
0:28:34 > 0:28:38Katherine Grainger, CBE, 2012 London Olympics gold medal rower.
0:28:38 > 0:28:41I watched netball internationally for the first time
0:28:41 > 0:28:46years ago with New Zealand playing Australia.
0:28:46 > 0:28:48And it was a different thing I remembered from school.
0:28:48 > 0:28:52It's a very, very fast, dynamic, powerful, passionate game.
0:28:52 > 0:28:56And I think people have forgotten that, or don't know it,
0:28:56 > 0:29:00and, actually, to see it, I think it'll make people think,
0:29:00 > 0:29:02"Actually, I'd love to try that."
0:29:03 > 0:29:07It's a great day for the morale of the team, you know,
0:29:07 > 0:29:12but it also, for me, heralds the new dawn for Scottish netball.
0:29:12 > 0:29:16And to have this fantastic Scottish sportswoman,
0:29:16 > 0:29:19this amazing role model, it's a dream come true.
0:29:19 > 0:29:23So, it kind of, for me, it's a lot of work, but it's exciting,
0:29:23 > 0:29:25and it's me starting to see
0:29:25 > 0:29:29the fruits of my long and laborious labour.
0:29:32 > 0:29:33Their personalities,
0:29:33 > 0:29:37their behaviour will be inspiring to lots of people who watch it.
0:29:37 > 0:29:40And that makes you a better athlete, a better person,
0:29:40 > 0:29:43when you are not just accountable to yourself or your team,
0:29:43 > 0:29:45but you feel the wider impact of what you do.
0:29:45 > 0:29:48I think if they get it right,
0:29:48 > 0:29:51they've just got this incredible opportunity ahead of them
0:29:51 > 0:29:54that will change their lives, but also the lives of a lot of people around them.
0:29:54 > 0:29:56And that is the best you could ask for in sport.
0:30:00 > 0:30:03Amidst all the excitement, there's a blow.
0:30:03 > 0:30:05As a New Zealander,
0:30:05 > 0:30:09the new coach Gail Parata needs a visa to work in the UK.
0:30:09 > 0:30:13But Maggie and Netball Scotland chair Freda Hutchison
0:30:13 > 0:30:15are informed of a delay.
0:30:16 > 0:30:20Just on the news last night, the UK Border Agency has imploded
0:30:20 > 0:30:25on itself and is about to be dismissed by Westminster.
0:30:25 > 0:30:29It's a nervous moment for us. This is critical that we have her here.
0:30:29 > 0:30:32If we have to go over there and kidnap her and bring her here,
0:30:32 > 0:30:34we're going to do that, but she has to be here,
0:30:34 > 0:30:37it's critically important for us at the moment.
0:30:37 > 0:30:40And, most importantly, for the players, that they have
0:30:40 > 0:30:42a coach in front of them right now.
0:30:46 > 0:30:49It's a bad time to be without a national coach.
0:30:49 > 0:30:52A week from now, it's the European Championships.
0:30:52 > 0:30:57And the team have also been missing one of their star players.
0:30:58 > 0:31:01Claire Brownie has had surgery on an injured ankle.
0:31:02 > 0:31:06Her place in the European Championships team is in jeopardy.
0:31:09 > 0:31:13She's on her way to find out the results of an MRI scan
0:31:13 > 0:31:14of her ankle.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18That will show whether she's fit to play.
0:31:21 > 0:31:24If anyone can get Claire back on court,
0:31:24 > 0:31:29it's Scotland's leading sports surgeon, Gordon Mackay.
0:31:29 > 0:31:32There's obviously been a serious reaction around the capsule.
0:31:32 > 0:31:34The joint itself has been swollen
0:31:34 > 0:31:36so that's going to restrict your range,
0:31:36 > 0:31:38and also inhibits your muscles, and causes extra give.
0:31:38 > 0:31:41An ex-footballer himself,
0:31:41 > 0:31:44he has treated some of the biggest names in football and rugby.
0:31:46 > 0:31:48He's not yet happy with Claire's ankle.
0:31:48 > 0:31:52We're in for a wee settling phase, that's what's really required.
0:31:52 > 0:31:56It'll let everything around that ankle joint calm back down,
0:31:56 > 0:32:00- but you have to be patient.- We've got European Championships next week.
0:32:00 > 0:32:05Next week? Well, do I need to answer that question?
0:32:05 > 0:32:09It would be lovely if you could, but I wouldn't recommend it for you.
0:32:09 > 0:32:13- Really... You probably think you can play...- I can play.- You can play?
0:32:13 > 0:32:15See, this is always the dilemma.
0:32:15 > 0:32:18What it boils down to is you feel you can play.
0:32:18 > 0:32:20But if I was looking at the scan objectively,
0:32:20 > 0:32:23you'd have to say that it needs a settling phase to come good.
0:32:24 > 0:32:29I wasn't expecting it when he said it. I was a wee bit shocked.
0:32:30 > 0:32:33And I think because I wasn't prepared for it,
0:32:33 > 0:32:34it took me back a wee bit.
0:32:36 > 0:32:40So, yeah, just shocked and, I guess, upset, disappointed,
0:32:40 > 0:32:44but, you know, it's sport, these things happen.
0:32:52 > 0:32:56This year, the European Championships are on home soil...
0:32:58 > 0:33:00..in front of a home crowd.
0:33:02 > 0:33:06But, as Scotland take to the court against Northern Ireland,
0:33:06 > 0:33:09there's only one spectator on everyone's mind.
0:33:09 > 0:33:11Gail Parata.
0:33:11 > 0:33:13Her visa hasn't been granted yet
0:33:13 > 0:33:17so she can't take up her intended post as the national coach.
0:33:17 > 0:33:21But she can advise as an international consultant.
0:33:21 > 0:33:25So she has come from New Zealand in her own time to catch
0:33:25 > 0:33:28a first glimpse of the girls in action.
0:33:30 > 0:33:31With so much at stake,
0:33:31 > 0:33:35Claire Brownie has decided to play against her doctor's advice.
0:33:37 > 0:33:42But she isn't on court for long before her bad ankle takes a hit.
0:33:45 > 0:33:47It is a toss-up. It's your heart over your head.
0:33:47 > 0:33:51You can go back and forth, but it's a decision you've got to make.
0:33:51 > 0:33:54And we all make mistakes.
0:33:56 > 0:33:58Scotland go on to lose the match.
0:34:02 > 0:34:05Next, they face England.
0:34:07 > 0:34:09Just a very strong side.
0:34:09 > 0:34:12We struggled to adapt to any changes that were put on.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15Really, if I'm honest, it's not really acceptable.
0:34:15 > 0:34:18And, finally, archrivals Wales.
0:34:22 > 0:34:25They finish without a victory but there is a feeling in
0:34:25 > 0:34:30the Scottish camp that this time the results don't tell the full story.
0:34:32 > 0:34:34We're always going to be disappointed when we lose,
0:34:34 > 0:34:37but we really nailed some good stuff out there today,
0:34:37 > 0:34:39so, we fought to the end, which was good,
0:34:39 > 0:34:43and we wanted to ensure that we put on a show for the crowd, to show
0:34:43 > 0:34:48how far we've come, but also how much more we can still bring to the game.
0:34:48 > 0:34:50We haven't managed a victory,
0:34:50 > 0:34:54but we are closing the gap on each of the teams significantly.
0:34:54 > 0:34:57They've had a long period of time now without a coach,
0:34:57 > 0:35:01but now we need that uber-performance coach who knows
0:35:01 > 0:35:04how to put them together as a team on the court.
0:35:05 > 0:35:08And there is one opinion everyone wants to know.
0:35:09 > 0:35:11There's some real, raw talent out there
0:35:11 > 0:35:13that I know that I can mould into
0:35:13 > 0:35:18really great players and I know they can do that in a short time.
0:35:18 > 0:35:21So, lots of potential in there.
0:35:23 > 0:35:25Good evening, everybody.
0:35:25 > 0:35:29And a very warm welcome to this special moment, this special day.
0:35:29 > 0:35:35We're here with Gail and June as they exchange their vows together.
0:35:36 > 0:35:39CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:35:47 > 0:35:49These occasions are great and they always bring teams together.
0:35:49 > 0:35:52It's nice to just relax and enjoy yourself
0:35:52 > 0:35:55and it's not all the serious training and things, so it's good.
0:35:55 > 0:35:59- And a different dress, for once. - Yes. A nicer dress.
0:36:00 > 0:36:04We spend so much time with each other now that they're like family to us.
0:36:04 > 0:36:07So, having them all here is just like having the rest of our family.
0:36:07 > 0:36:10- All here to have a great time and have a day off from training.- I know.
0:36:10 > 0:36:12A rare day off, actually.
0:36:15 > 0:36:17The girls, all of them look beautiful today
0:36:17 > 0:36:19and it is just nice to have that time outwith the court
0:36:19 > 0:36:24and intensity that we have to train at on a day-to-day basis.
0:36:24 > 0:36:27It's nice just to have that outlet as well.
0:36:37 > 0:36:39One year to the Games.
0:36:39 > 0:36:41As the countdown begins in earnest,
0:36:41 > 0:36:45Claire is achieving unprecedented media attention for netball.
0:36:45 > 0:36:48One of 17 Commonwealth sports.
0:36:49 > 0:36:54The press and major activity around netball has been absolutely amazing.
0:36:54 > 0:36:57We've had the Prime Minister visit the Emirates Arena.
0:36:57 > 0:37:01And as always, I managed to have my netballers
0:37:01 > 0:37:03in the back of every picture of him
0:37:03 > 0:37:06across all the national press the next day.
0:37:07 > 0:37:11But money for Claire's PR role with Netball Scotland
0:37:11 > 0:37:12has finally run out.
0:37:14 > 0:37:17She's decided to keep working voluntarily for now
0:37:17 > 0:37:20but that creates pressure at home.
0:37:20 > 0:37:23I'm the luckiest woman in the world that I have a really supportive
0:37:23 > 0:37:28husband who sees that I need to do what's important to me
0:37:28 > 0:37:30and what I am passionate about.
0:37:33 > 0:37:34I don't ever cry.
0:37:37 > 0:37:39SHE SNIFFS
0:37:39 > 0:37:40And I feel guilty...
0:37:42 > 0:37:46..that I'm turning down jobs that can make a big difference because
0:37:46 > 0:37:53I'm stubborn and I'm ambitious and I'm passionate about what I do.
0:37:53 > 0:37:55But I believe that effort equals results.
0:37:56 > 0:38:02And I have worked too damn hard and had too many successes to just
0:38:02 > 0:38:04accept that this is going to be the way.
0:38:06 > 0:38:09There has got to be a solution.
0:38:15 > 0:38:18For the players, too, careers hang in the balance.
0:38:18 > 0:38:22The long squad for the Commonwealth Games is about to be selected,
0:38:22 > 0:38:25a group of 18 players from which the final squad of 12
0:38:25 > 0:38:27will eventually be picked.
0:38:30 > 0:38:34Gail Parata, the intended new national coach still
0:38:34 > 0:38:37doesn't have a visa to work in the UK.
0:38:38 > 0:38:42So, again, she's flown in from New Zealand in her own time to
0:38:42 > 0:38:44help advise in this vital selection.
0:38:46 > 0:38:50Tonight, she is watching the senior team play the Scotland under-21s
0:38:50 > 0:38:53who are also eligible to try out for the team.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58On court, the youngsters are more than holding their own.
0:39:00 > 0:39:04There are a group in there that are trialling for positions. All right?
0:39:04 > 0:39:09Now, tonight, I thought they played better than you guys.
0:39:09 > 0:39:13So, remember that, you are up against half of those players down there.
0:39:13 > 0:39:15You need to bring your A game to trials
0:39:15 > 0:39:17and if you think tonight was your A game,
0:39:17 > 0:39:20then you need to bring your triple-A game to trials, please.
0:39:22 > 0:39:26Competition is fierce. The trials are open to any eligible player.
0:39:28 > 0:39:31Rachel Forbes, who joined the Thistles on their tour of the Pacific,
0:39:31 > 0:39:34has flown in from Brisbane, Australia.
0:39:34 > 0:39:37It's going to be competitive, that's for sure,
0:39:37 > 0:39:40especially with the other girls I don't know. It just depends.
0:39:40 > 0:39:42Everyone is in the same position,
0:39:42 > 0:39:45it's always going to be competitive, no matter what.
0:39:45 > 0:39:47Every girl knows that her Commonwealth dreams
0:39:47 > 0:39:51depends on her performance on court.
0:39:51 > 0:39:54It's just fingers, toes, everything crossed now
0:39:54 > 0:39:56to hope that I make that 18
0:39:56 > 0:40:00to then have the chance to be in the 12 to represent Scotland.
0:40:01 > 0:40:05Obviously, Gail is holding her cards very close to her chest at the moment.
0:40:05 > 0:40:08So, we all just have to do our best and hopefully that's good enough.
0:40:10 > 0:40:12But doing their best is harder for some.
0:40:12 > 0:40:16Hayley Mulheron gave up her job as a police officer to
0:40:16 > 0:40:18focus on netball.
0:40:18 > 0:40:21But in this crucial week of trials, she's fallen ill.
0:40:23 > 0:40:24At the moment,
0:40:24 > 0:40:27I'm currently unwell. I have been since Tuesday.
0:40:27 > 0:40:28I have managed to get through
0:40:28 > 0:40:31but I don't think I will be able to play today.
0:40:36 > 0:40:40Last week in our training matches I had a slight injury.
0:40:40 > 0:40:42So, today I won't be doing any fitness tests,
0:40:42 > 0:40:44possibly not any of the trials at the weekend,
0:40:44 > 0:40:46so it's causing a lot of stress and worry.
0:40:51 > 0:40:54One player who isn't on court is Nicola Collins.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57She's decided to withdraw from the squad.
0:40:57 > 0:41:01Deciding to leave the squad was a really difficult decision.
0:41:01 > 0:41:03It absolutely cut me up.
0:41:03 > 0:41:06I knew the Commonwealth Games were coming up
0:41:06 > 0:41:08and that was something that I had focused on for years and years.
0:41:08 > 0:41:13But I have been juggling my job in Edinburgh alongside
0:41:13 > 0:41:16netball training for ten years.
0:41:16 > 0:41:19I'm starting to think, I'm getting a bit older,
0:41:19 > 0:41:22am I really enjoying this as much as I should be?
0:41:22 > 0:41:28And at that point, I realised that perhaps it was time to step down
0:41:28 > 0:41:31and retire from the international scene.
0:41:32 > 0:41:35I almost feel that a weight has been lifted off me and I feel
0:41:35 > 0:41:40a new lease of life so I am happy with the decision that I have made.
0:41:45 > 0:41:49After five days of trials, the senior players can do no more.
0:41:49 > 0:41:53But they will have to wait an agonising two weeks to
0:41:53 > 0:41:58learn their fate while their rivals in the under-21 squad have
0:41:58 > 0:42:02an ideal opportunity to show Gail what they can do.
0:42:09 > 0:42:13Glasgow is hosting the major tournament for under-21s,
0:42:13 > 0:42:17the World Youth Netball Championships.
0:42:17 > 0:42:2020 nations are gathering for the biggest netball event
0:42:20 > 0:42:22Scotland has ever hosted.
0:42:24 > 0:42:26How are you feeling about it?
0:42:26 > 0:42:27Aargh!
0:42:27 > 0:42:30SHE LAUGHS That's how I'm feeling!
0:42:30 > 0:42:32SHE LAUGHS
0:42:32 > 0:42:35It's just exciting. Very exciting.
0:42:36 > 0:42:37It's just amazing.
0:42:37 > 0:42:40I think it's surpassed my expectations of what this
0:42:40 > 0:42:41could look like.
0:42:41 > 0:42:44It's just the realisation of actually how wonderful
0:42:44 > 0:42:48this is going to be and we are just really excited. It's fantastic.
0:42:48 > 0:42:50I can't wait to see our girls play down there
0:42:50 > 0:42:52in their new Scotland dresses.
0:42:53 > 0:42:57And as the Scotland under-21s prepare for their first game,
0:42:57 > 0:43:00a surprise visitor arrives.
0:43:00 > 0:43:01Hello.
0:43:01 > 0:43:04ALL: Hi.
0:43:04 > 0:43:06The chance to deliver in front of home crowd
0:43:06 > 0:43:10and to deliver your ultimate performance, that is so good.
0:43:10 > 0:43:12That is just what athletes live for.
0:43:14 > 0:43:16For Scotland's younger players,
0:43:16 > 0:43:19it is a chance to catch the eye of Gail Parata.
0:43:21 > 0:43:25It's the opening match of the tournament.
0:43:25 > 0:43:28The Scots win comfortably against the Cayman Islands.
0:43:29 > 0:43:31But the opposition gets tougher.
0:43:36 > 0:43:39Then, a vital win against Northern Ireland.
0:43:45 > 0:43:47Two more hard-fought matches,
0:43:47 > 0:43:50and the young Scots finish in the top 12 -
0:43:50 > 0:43:54the highest position for a Scotland team in years.
0:43:57 > 0:43:59Though Claire has been working flat out on the event,
0:43:59 > 0:44:02there is still no new funding for her post.
0:44:02 > 0:44:05We're all exhausted, we have been working 16-hour days
0:44:05 > 0:44:08and I've been so proud of how we've delivered the event
0:44:08 > 0:44:11but the future's a little bit uncertain.
0:44:11 > 0:44:13That is what's kind of weighing heavy on my shoulders
0:44:13 > 0:44:16but I'm looking forward to getting to the end of it
0:44:16 > 0:44:17so that I can see my children,
0:44:17 > 0:44:20I can eat properly and I can get a bit of a life again.
0:44:21 > 0:44:24For the players, the wait is nearly over.
0:44:24 > 0:44:28The long squad for the Commonwealth Games has been chosen.
0:44:31 > 0:44:35That's probably my phone call. I'm going to take that, if that's OK.
0:44:36 > 0:44:40- Hello.- Hi, Jane, Gail speaking. - Hi, Gail.
0:44:40 > 0:44:42Just calling to let you know congratulations,
0:44:42 > 0:44:45- you have made the long squad. - Congratulations.
0:44:45 > 0:44:47Yep. That's fantastic.
0:44:47 > 0:44:51All right, Jane, well, well done and congratulations.
0:44:51 > 0:44:52Thank you, Gail, thanks for your call.
0:44:52 > 0:44:54Oh, wow.
0:44:54 > 0:44:56That's good. Good girl.
0:44:56 > 0:44:57You worked so hard.
0:45:06 > 0:45:08PHONE RINGS
0:45:08 > 0:45:11- Hi, is that you, Gemma?- Yes. Hi, Gail?
0:45:11 > 0:45:14Well, I'm just calling to say congratulations,
0:45:14 > 0:45:16you are in the long squad.
0:45:16 > 0:45:18Thank you very much.
0:45:18 > 0:45:21Gemma comes from a sporting family.
0:45:21 > 0:45:25Her dad is the former Scotland rugby captain David Sole.
0:45:26 > 0:45:30Capped 47 times for Scotland and the British Lions,
0:45:30 > 0:45:36he has had many an anxious wait for selection news.
0:45:36 > 0:45:39This is why I didn't want to be filmed.
0:45:39 > 0:45:41Because there would be blubbers!
0:45:41 > 0:45:44- Yeah.- Very pleased.
0:45:44 > 0:45:48I was saying to Mum, I've been picked for Scotland, picked for the Lions,
0:45:48 > 0:45:51but nothing is as nerve-racking as waiting for that call, I tell you.
0:45:51 > 0:45:53- Really?- Oh, God.
0:45:53 > 0:45:55A gibbering wreck.
0:45:55 > 0:45:57THEY LAUGH
0:45:57 > 0:46:00PHONE RINGS
0:46:00 > 0:46:04- Hello.- Is that you, Hayley?- Yes, hiya. How are you doing?
0:46:04 > 0:46:07- Congratulations. You're in the long squad.- Whaaaaay!
0:46:07 > 0:46:11I can stop pacing up and down now, like. Oh, my God.
0:46:11 > 0:46:12SHE LAUGHS
0:46:12 > 0:46:17- So, well done.- Thanks very much. Thanks, Gail. Thanks.
0:46:17 > 0:46:20See you soon. Bye.
0:46:20 > 0:46:24Woo! Yaaay!
0:46:25 > 0:46:29So, Scotland have their long squad for the Commonwealth Games.
0:46:29 > 0:46:31Now, they need their coach.
0:46:31 > 0:46:34But Gail's visa still hasn't come through.
0:46:39 > 0:46:41Before heading back to New Zealand,
0:46:41 > 0:46:43she takes the squad away for the weekend.
0:46:45 > 0:46:46WOMAN SCREAMS
0:46:48 > 0:46:50We're all so competitive.
0:46:50 > 0:46:52We're in two teams, and we've done really well
0:46:52 > 0:46:56on the first three tasks, we're just going to our last one now.
0:46:56 > 0:46:57So, hopefully, we'll win that.
0:46:57 > 0:47:00We're pretty convinced we've won them all so far.
0:47:00 > 0:47:04It's about us trying to get to know the players from this weekend,
0:47:04 > 0:47:06just to see who are the talkers,
0:47:06 > 0:47:08who are the motivators,
0:47:08 > 0:47:10who are the ones that show you leadership.
0:47:10 > 0:47:12Cos that will help us take the squad forward.
0:47:14 > 0:47:17Gail must now return to New Zealand, hoping that the next time
0:47:17 > 0:47:22she comes to Scotland, it'll finally be as the national coach.
0:47:30 > 0:47:32Tonight is a glittering awards ceremony.
0:47:32 > 0:47:37But on a deeply personal note, this is also the last job that
0:47:37 > 0:47:40I will be delivering for Netball Scotland for the foreseeable future.
0:47:40 > 0:47:42We knew that funding was going to run out.
0:47:42 > 0:47:45And I have been offered a role that I can't turn down
0:47:45 > 0:47:47because I have four children.
0:47:47 > 0:47:52So, you know, it is really sad but I'm sure there will be a few tears
0:47:52 > 0:47:56later but I am here to do a job, still, and to go out with a bang.
0:47:57 > 0:48:00Unfortunately, she moves to another job.
0:48:00 > 0:48:03- We will retain her on the board. - AUDIENCE BOO
0:48:03 > 0:48:05If we could afford her, we would keep her.
0:48:05 > 0:48:06LAUGHTER
0:48:06 > 0:48:08We'd lock her in a room and never let her go.
0:48:08 > 0:48:11'A particularly emotional night tonight'
0:48:11 > 0:48:14because it is devastating for us to lose her at this stage,
0:48:14 > 0:48:18so close to the Commonwealth Games.
0:48:18 > 0:48:21She's been the lifeblood of everything
0:48:21 > 0:48:24that is the image of our organisation.
0:48:25 > 0:48:28And she is one of the reasons that I would get up every morning
0:48:28 > 0:48:31and come to work because I knew that she was
0:48:31 > 0:48:34there in the background inspiring me to do what I do.
0:48:34 > 0:48:38I was very surprised by them bringing me out on stage
0:48:38 > 0:48:42but I am very grateful for her words and I think she loves me
0:48:42 > 0:48:44just as I love her.
0:48:44 > 0:48:47- Oh!- A wee bunch of flowers from us.
0:48:48 > 0:48:50I was just talking about you two.
0:48:50 > 0:48:51Was you?
0:48:51 > 0:48:53Thank you.
0:48:53 > 0:48:55But soon there is some better news.
0:48:56 > 0:49:02We just found out two weeks ago that her visa was on its way.
0:49:02 > 0:49:07And ten days ago, she confirmed that she actually had it in her hands
0:49:07 > 0:49:09and she could make arrangements immediately
0:49:09 > 0:49:12so we're going to make sure that we look after her
0:49:12 > 0:49:14and she is going to look after us.
0:49:14 > 0:49:16because she's going to pull the best performance ever
0:49:16 > 0:49:18out of this group of players for the Commonwealth Games.
0:49:18 > 0:49:21I've been travelling I think it is 32 hours
0:49:21 > 0:49:25and we are going to squad training tonight.
0:49:25 > 0:49:26So, straight into it.
0:49:35 > 0:49:38Gail is on a mission to improve the team's performance.
0:49:38 > 0:49:42First, she takes them south to play a top English county side.
0:49:42 > 0:49:44There's a delay on the road.
0:49:44 > 0:49:47The bus that we have got,
0:49:47 > 0:49:49evidently, there's something wrong with the gearbox.
0:49:49 > 0:49:54So we are currently causing mayhem on the M25 on a Saturday afternoon.
0:49:54 > 0:49:57So, yes, not ideal preparation.
0:50:00 > 0:50:02But on court, the pace is quicker.
0:50:05 > 0:50:09Next, a masterclass with the coach of the world number one side,
0:50:09 > 0:50:10New Zealand.
0:50:10 > 0:50:13I'm doing some coaching here for the Thistles.
0:50:13 > 0:50:16I'm a friend of the newly appointed national coach Gail Parata
0:50:16 > 0:50:20and she asked if I was over here if I could come and help with some defensive work.
0:50:20 > 0:50:23She's going to be working us quite hard
0:50:23 > 0:50:27so everyone's a bit excited and a bit nervous at the same time.
0:50:27 > 0:50:29And, then, a match against the Kiwis themselves.
0:50:35 > 0:50:38Next, off to Cardiff to play Wales.
0:50:39 > 0:50:43And, this time, finally a win for Scotland.
0:50:45 > 0:50:48To beat the number eight in the world is a huge achievement.
0:50:48 > 0:50:52Probably the biggest thing that came out of that week was just
0:50:52 > 0:50:54the belief has skyrocketed for them
0:50:54 > 0:50:58and they know they can challenge those teams in the top ten.
0:50:58 > 0:51:01Four months from the Commonwealth Games,
0:51:01 > 0:51:03there is a major test of how far the team have come.
0:51:05 > 0:51:09A three-match test series against top ten side Trinidad and Tobago
0:51:09 > 0:51:11in front of a home crowd.
0:51:27 > 0:51:31The Scots take the series in style, winning every match.
0:51:32 > 0:51:36Winning a test series against Trinidad and Tobago was great
0:51:36 > 0:51:40but winning three matches in a row against them has been fantastic.
0:51:42 > 0:51:46What happened tonight was just absolutely wonderful to watch.
0:51:46 > 0:51:49A good score, with ten goals on the night.
0:51:49 > 0:51:52I must say I was very happily surprised.
0:51:52 > 0:51:55We couldn't be in a better place than where we are right now.
0:51:55 > 0:51:59We just want to keep that momentum going, going forward into the world
0:51:59 > 0:52:02champ qualifiers and then obviously on into the Commonwealth Games.
0:52:05 > 0:52:08Eight weeks to the Commonwealth Games.
0:52:08 > 0:52:13Scotland's recent wins have finally improved their world ranking.
0:52:13 > 0:52:16They've made it to the crucial number 12 spot
0:52:16 > 0:52:19so they will be at the games on merit.
0:52:20 > 0:52:23Now, it's time to choose the final squad of 12 players who will
0:52:23 > 0:52:24represent their country.
0:52:26 > 0:52:29These girls have been pushing each other really hard.
0:52:30 > 0:52:34So, I won't know myself until tomorrow for the trials
0:52:34 > 0:52:38when we sit down together and run through what we've seen. So, yes.
0:52:39 > 0:52:42Today has been one of the most nerve-racking days
0:52:42 > 0:52:43I can remember in a very long time.
0:52:43 > 0:52:47It was a case of having to put everything that we have learned,
0:52:47 > 0:52:51particularly in the recent months, under Gail's supervision,
0:52:51 > 0:52:53being able to put it on the court and trying to showcase
0:52:53 > 0:52:55what you can do to get a place in the team.
0:52:55 > 0:53:00If I was honest, I think I have been nervous since about August.
0:53:00 > 0:53:03So, every day, this is what's on my mind.
0:53:03 > 0:53:04It maybe slips my mind for a second
0:53:04 > 0:53:06but it's always at the back of my mind.
0:53:06 > 0:53:09And then it comes straight back to the forefront of my mind.
0:53:09 > 0:53:12If I get selected, this is the pinnacle of my career.
0:53:12 > 0:53:14I've been to three world championships already
0:53:14 > 0:53:17but we've never made it to the Commonwealth Games.
0:53:17 > 0:53:20And now there's 18 girls to 12, and hopefully I'm one of those.
0:53:20 > 0:53:23The Commonwealth Games is the last thing I wanted to do before I retire.
0:53:23 > 0:53:27I just have to hope that I have done enough to get picked.
0:53:29 > 0:53:33After six years of training towards the Commonwealth Games,
0:53:33 > 0:53:35the girls wait to learn their fate.
0:53:37 > 0:53:41This player has a bright future for Scotland.
0:53:41 > 0:53:44Yep.
0:53:44 > 0:53:46We're ready to go.
0:53:46 > 0:53:48Well, a great week this weekend.
0:53:48 > 0:53:51- Congratulations.- Thank you. - You are in the squad.- Right.
0:53:51 > 0:53:55- So, you're going to the Commonwealth Games.- Thank you.
0:53:55 > 0:53:57How do you feel?
0:53:57 > 0:54:01Over the moon. Proud. Glad that all my hard work has paid off.
0:54:01 > 0:54:05I'm in! I got into the 12. I actually cannot believe it.
0:54:05 > 0:54:07I'm so excited.
0:54:07 > 0:54:10Congratulations.
0:54:10 > 0:54:13- You've made the squad. - Yes! Thank you.
0:54:17 > 0:54:20But not everyone can make the cut.
0:54:20 > 0:54:22SHE SNIFFS
0:54:22 > 0:54:26Gail is told before June she is on the reserve list
0:54:26 > 0:54:29but has not made the final 12.
0:54:35 > 0:54:37Congratulations, you're in.
0:54:37 > 0:54:41- Thanks.- You're in.
0:54:45 > 0:54:47Mixed emotions. That's all I can say.
0:54:59 > 0:55:02Yeah. Full of emotions at the minute.
0:55:02 > 0:55:04Absolutely delighted for myself that I got in.
0:55:04 > 0:55:08And, obviously, just disappointed for her.
0:55:12 > 0:55:16I have a whole range of emotions. I don't know. Clearly upset as well.
0:55:16 > 0:55:19Yes. Good.
0:55:19 > 0:55:22Hi, Hayley.
0:55:22 > 0:55:25Well, congratulations.
0:55:25 > 0:55:26Woo-hoo.
0:55:26 > 0:55:29And we'll be naming you as vice-captain.
0:55:29 > 0:55:33You're doing a great job for us. OK? You really deserve that.
0:55:33 > 0:55:36Leading from, I was going to say the front, but also the back. OK?
0:55:39 > 0:55:44- How do you feel?- Fantastic. On top of the world. Awesome.
0:55:44 > 0:55:48Absolutely awesome. That's five years I have been waiting on this.
0:55:48 > 0:55:50So, awesome.
0:55:58 > 0:56:00The final squad is chosen.
0:56:00 > 0:56:04The first thing they have to do as a team is nothing less than
0:56:04 > 0:56:06assure the future of the sport.
0:56:09 > 0:56:12They've come to Cardiff for the 2015 World Cup qualifiers.
0:56:14 > 0:56:17Current funding for Scottish netball is only guaranteed
0:56:17 > 0:56:19until the Commonwealth Games.
0:56:19 > 0:56:22Future funding depends on winning here.
0:56:23 > 0:56:26It's four days of nail-biting matches.
0:56:26 > 0:56:29Only two of the four teams will qualify.
0:56:32 > 0:56:35First, Northern Ireland,
0:56:35 > 0:56:37the teams battle point for point all the way.
0:56:41 > 0:56:45And Scotland snatch the win with the final goal.
0:56:45 > 0:56:46Absolutely amazing.
0:56:46 > 0:56:50I can't believe it, it was so nerve-racking out there, so nerve-racking.
0:56:50 > 0:56:52It makes all the hard work and all the effort
0:56:52 > 0:56:56and early mornings just worth it, it is just the best feeling.
0:56:56 > 0:56:57Next, Wales.
0:57:00 > 0:57:02The Scots come close but do not finish.
0:57:08 > 0:57:10Now, they must defeat the Republic of Ireland.
0:57:13 > 0:57:18This time, the Scots win by a huge margin. 60 points.
0:57:20 > 0:57:23But then, it's an agonising wait
0:57:23 > 0:57:26as Wales and Northern Ireland play the final game.
0:57:26 > 0:57:29For Scotland to qualify, Wales must win.
0:57:34 > 0:57:36CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:57:41 > 0:57:45That's us qualified. In second place. The job is done. Tick the box.
0:57:45 > 0:57:47Excellent by everyone.
0:57:47 > 0:57:50And then we can move on now to the Commonwealth Games.
0:57:52 > 0:57:57Two years ago, we were a small organisation. We had big dreams.
0:57:57 > 0:58:02Our journey has been up, it's been down, it's been sideways.
0:58:02 > 0:58:06It's been off the Richter scale, it's been on other planets at times.
0:58:07 > 0:58:09We stand on a platform
0:58:09 > 0:58:11probably that we have probably never stood on before.
0:58:11 > 0:58:13The first time in the Commonwealth Games,
0:58:13 > 0:58:16Sport Scotland have taken a leap of the faith
0:58:16 > 0:58:18to keep investing in us.
0:58:19 > 0:58:21It just means so much to our sport
0:58:21 > 0:58:23and to Scotland to have achieved this.
0:58:23 > 0:58:26It makes me very proud, very proud,
0:58:26 > 0:58:30and proud to be associated with this international team
0:58:30 > 0:58:32because they've written their own history.