The Vixens claimed their maiden Super Netball title in the pulsating 66-64 over West Coast Fever at Brisbane's Nissan Arena.
Sunday's thrilling grand final win capped an incredible 12 months on the court for the Lions’ A-grade co-coach — who made her Vixens debut earlier this season.
Melbourne Vixens head coach Simone McKinnis said she was overcome with satisfaction and joy once the emotions started to sink in.
“It was just exhilaration that moment when the game was over, and pride and relief and everything in between and around that . . . and now it’s just satisfaction for what’s been a really full-on season and a full-on year,” McKinnis said post-match.
“I’m just proud of the girls (and) we can now actually breathe and enjoy what has been a well and hard-earned championship.
“There was a lot going on, particularly at the start of this week, but we had a moment yesterday where we sat together in the changeroom here and said this is about ourselves and each other and that’s what we focus on because the rest will come from that.”
It was the first time in history that the competition's minor premiers have been able to go on and lift the trophy.
But the Vixens were made to earn their title.
West Coast — led by star shooter Jhaniele Fowler — led the Vixens at quarter and half-time.
Fowler nailed a two-shot with one second left in the opening half to give the Fever plenty of momentum at the main break.
However, the Vixens had their own star goalie in player-of-the-match Mwai Kumwenda.
The talented shooter went at 92 per cent and wrestled the momentum back in Melbourne's favour as it hung on for a memorable win.
“One of the things we spoke about beforehand was being composed and controlled, and there’s going to be ups and downs and they’re going to be coming at you, and there’ll (also) be times when you are in front,” McKinnis said.
“But you just have to stick to what you need to do; just keeping it simple, don’t get distracted by score lines or two-point shots or intercepts — just keep at it and it will come.”
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