Illawarra sisters ready to take on Australia at National Netball Championships

Born 18 months apart, neither girl was willing to give an inch as they sought to triumph in regular battles.

Now in their teenage years, that fierce competition has paid off, with the girls set to represent their state for the first time at the National Netball Championships in Brisbane, starting Thursday.

For 15-year-old Selene, the younger of the pair, it's great to have her big sister alongside her. 

"It's quite cool we're both representing the state for our first time together, which is quite exciting," Selene said. "We kind of get to give each other a bit of feedback and question each other and I can get her honest opinion, which is great.

"We're both very competitive, we like to compete with each other. So if I see her out in the backyard throwing the ball around, I think I better get out there and throw the ball around as well. We compete with each other, which is really good."

The two girls are members of the Illawarra Academy of Sport's netball program and for Annalise, 17, it's that extra training that she hopes will help her excel in Brisbane.

"They've developed me both physically and mentally," Annalise said. "With the training sessions they've helped me prepare and the Academy Games were a good step. 

"They've also helped us with interviews, mentally and with nutrition. I feel like the program and the information that they have provided us with have definitely helped me with my step up to NSW."

Read more: Eaton chasing mental edge in Super Netball pursuit

The girls were selected for the NSW Under 17 team back in December, with four months of arduous training and warm-up matches leaving Selene confident the side will challenge for a gold medal at the championships.

"I think we'll do really well," Selene said. "Our goal is to be top four, so to make the finals.

"But I think if we play how we've been training and how we played at the competition in Orange at the HeartKids Cup, where we came second, I think we can definitely come home with the gold."

While you're with us the Illawarra Mercury is offering sport readers 20% off an annual digital subscription. Sign up to stay up to date with all the local sports you love for only $3.00 a week. Terms and conditions apply.