All matches and training sessions remain suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, the Blaze's open and under 23s teams continue to work hard ahead of their inaugural season.

The players train at home under a program designed by their strength and conditioning coach Maddie Stephens, from BaiMed Performance.

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"The girls are looking the best they've ever looked," Stephens, 24, said.

"It's essential, you can't go into a season without preparation - that's when massive injuries happen.

"I've issued them a general program, mainly doing body work and band work because we weren't sure what equipment they'd have at home.

"They also have the option to get a more personalised program.

"I also do a wellness check so I can see when they're doing their program.

"But the girls are pretty good."

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Stephens comes from an extensive gymnastics background, including 16 years in coaching.

She has a Masters of Exercise Science and also completed her level two ASCA strength and conditioning course.

The Berry resident said when BaiMed was approached to support the new Blaze franchise last year, she jumped at the chance to help out.

"I was into netball myself growing up," she said.

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"The girls have had a long pre-season, I started working with them back in December.

"When they couldn't come to the gym, they wanted to be able to do something from home because they'd been training three or four times a week: they missed it.

"They're quite well motivated."

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