Ten seasons, two premierships, and now 100 national games in pink, Adelaide Thunderbirds premiership captain Hannah Petty is set to celebrate a significant milestone this weekend.
After making her debut as an 18-year-old in 2016, Petty has represented her home club for the past 10 seasons and is now just one game away from reaching her 100th.
In 2020, she was voted in by her teammates and coaches to lead the club as captain, a role she has thrived in ever since.
Hailing from Wudinna, a town of just over 1,000 people on the Eyre Peninsula, Petty said it was surreal to reflect on what she’s achieved.
“Never did I expect a little girl from Wudinna to grow up and play for the Thunderbirds, let alone achieve 100 games,” Petty said.
“It means the world to me and I’m so excited to get out there with the girls and hopefully contribute to a win.”
She acknowledged she would not be where she is today without her family and community back home.
“I’m so grateful for my family, I wouldn’t be where I am today without them and my parents especially,” Petty said.
“I remember the 12-hour round trips we’d make for a three-hour training each week when I was representing South Australia in the state teams – I wouldn’t be here without their support.
“I love going back home when I can and keeping in touch with the wider community too.”
Reflecting on her 10 seasons at the club, she identified the moments that stuck out the most.
“Your debut is always very special - to go out on court and play in the pink dress for the first time – and I can’t go past our last two premierships,” Petty said.
“There were a few really tough seasons in the years leading up to the premierships, so it was a good experience for me to be on the whole journey and achieve the ultimate success twice.”
For Petty, it was the people she’s met along the way that meant the most.
“My team is a great group, and I have been lucky enough to have strong connections with of the past players too,” Petty said.
“I love the relationship side of things and being able to connect with different people, it makes it even more special to go out each week and play for one another.”
The Adelaide Thunderbirds will take on the Queensland Firebirds in Brisbane this Saturday from 4:30pm ACST.
The club will also celebrate Petty’s milestone at its next home game on Saturday, May 17 at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.
