Perth Steel ready to defend their crown
After taking out the title in 2023, Perth Steel’s men’s team are gearing up for another thrilling season in the Mahindra Super League, reflecting on their achievements whilst also focusing on the journey ahead.
“Looking back on last year’s win, the thing that stands out to me the most is how much joy it brought our family and friends back home in Perth,” captain Daniel Piggott said.
“Especially for the people who have been part of the Perth Steel from the very start and along the way, it was extra special to share that moment with them as they have given so much to volleyball in Perth.”
Piggott describes the 2023 final against Adelaide Storm in Bendigo as a whirlwind of emotions and intensity.
“The game itself was a blur, and I’m still not quite sure how we managed to get it done against a very good Adelaide side with a couple of commanding leads,” Piggott said.
“Reflecting on the match, it brought me so much pride seeing everyone having their moment and shining on the big stage playing the Perth way!”
One of the key philosophies that guided the team to success was the coach’s emphasis on the collective strength of the squad.
“It all started at training for us, with all players and coaches creating a high intensity, competitive environment pushing each other to be better. The grand final was a perfect example as all 12 players entered that game at different stages to help secure gold.”
As captain, Piggott believes in fostering a positive environment for the team.
“With such a talented and experienced side, my main focus as captain is to make sure that the team feel supported and confident to go out and put on a show,” he said.
“I’m a big believer in training the way you want to play, so maintaining that high standard and challenging one another is something else I put a lot of effort into.”
Following the 2023 season win, Piggott transitioned back to the beach volleyball tour and the skills and confidence honed during the Super League season proved invaluable on the sand.
“Volleyball is a huge passion of mine, so being able to step onto the sand and do what I love while challenging myself is something that I’m really proud of,” Piggott said.
The lead-up to the 2024 indoor season, however, hasn’t been without challenges. A significant ankle injury sidelined Piggott for several weeks.
“Being out of action for a number of weeks is something I’m not used to,” Piggott admitted.
“But with the help of Diamond High Performance and the Steel coaches, I feel reinvigorated and hungry to attack the 2024 AVSL season fully fit and healthy.”
As reigning champions, the Perth Steel enter the new season with expectations riding on them, but they aren’t worried about that.
“As a team, we aren’t living in the past. Although we are last year’s champions, we feel that we haven’t played our best game yet, so that has been the focus for us ever since,” Piggott said.
“We are super excited to take our game to the next level. Having a target on our back is something we can use as motivation to make sure we are always doing things to the best of our ability. We can’t wait.”
The season opener promises to be a thrilling Grand Final rematch against the Storm.
“What a great way to start the season,” Piggott said.
“No doubt Adelaide will want to get revenge for last year’s championship match. We have a lot of respect for Adelaide and will have to be firing early in the season to get the win. The fans can expect a high intensity, fast-paced game with hopefully a Perth Steel win.”
With their eyes set on defending their title, Perth Steel are prepared to face whatever challenges the new season brings.
Perth Steel will take on Adelaide Storm in Round 1 of the 2024 Mahindra Super League on Saturday 31 August at Warwick Stadium, Perth.
Click here for more information on the 2024 Mahindra Super League.
