A Word with... Jade Topia

Friday, April 27, 2007 5:00

# Congratulations on selection to accompany the Ferns to England as a training partner, Jade.

It was a bit of a shock. It's going to be a really good experience for me, soaking up the environment, the expectations and the intensity of their training ? things like that.

# Been to Britain before?

No, I was supposed to go over with Jodi Tod to play for Northumberland at the end of last year but I couldn't go because of New Zealand A commitments.

# You had a great first season in National Bank Cup last year ? is it more difficult now opponents know you?

No, not really. I just pretty much keep going. Training has been a lot harder and I've learned a lot more, and also a bit more responsibility as well with Julianna Naoupu and Erin McDuff being in there. I might have to be a role model for them instead of me looking up to everyone else! But I'm not a mother figure yet ? I'll leave that up to Shelley Norris.

# Tomorrow you have the Flyers at Westpac. The team will be out to bounce back from the loss to Magic, but young players like you must learn from a big game like that?

Yes, against a top team like that you learn a lot of crucial things. We want to get back on that winning road after we took a detour last week!

# What do you do away from netball?

I work part-time with our manager Gail at Hauora Matauraka, promoting Maori health, like Aukati Kai Paipa (Quit Smoking) and healthy eating and exercise. It's really good for me because it fits around training during the week as well.

# Being from Auckland, what other teams do you support?

Of course the Crusaders! And me and Shelley, we go along to the Rams games and support the basketball guys. So does Jodi Tod when she can.

# You and Jodi flat together ? who's the cook?

We both do. I do most of it ? Jodi has Emerson, her eight-year-old daughter, so I try and do my bit to help her out, and cooking is one of my many talents!

# All-time favourite movie?

Quite a few actually ? but The Notebook, I love The Notebook.

# Worst?

The Blair Witch Project, that was the most horrible movie ever.

# TV favourite?

I love Prison Break. Michael Scofield ? pheew! And I love Home and Away.

# Favourite places for dining out?

I don't eat out a lot cos of training and stuff. Mu ? good steaks!

# Favourite meal?

Chicken and mushroom pasta. I cook that!

# What are your big likes and dislikes?

I love the mirror, as Maree Bowden put in this column recently! Or it's a toss up between me and Bessie.

# Dislikes?

Waking up in the morning. And chasing hedgehogs out of the garage.

# Best thing about being in Christchurch?

The company, the girls, and the Flames environment and training atmosphere. Jason Gregory (trainer) has us fine-tuned.

# What do you miss most about Auckland?

My family and friends.

# What sort of music do you like?

Hip-hop, R & B, I love a bit of all sorts. Music you can dance to.

# What sportsman is your pin-up?

That guy Ronaldo who plays for Manchester United. Hot?!

# Here's Jodi Tod. Jodi, do you have any tales about Jade?

I could tell so many. But you'll never find her without her Ipod. Or phone. Lose her phone and it's a disaster! We always have this competition when we get home from training... we have to guess who's got the most texts on their phone and how many they have!