Cat Tuivaiti and Liana Leota are both mothers. They know the difficulties of managing parenthood with being an elite sportswoman – similarities which mean their on-court connection is as strong as ever.
With Tuivaiti joining Severn Stars, where Leota has been settled since 2019, the experienced New Zealand duo are reunited for the 2022 Superleague season.
“We know what each other is thinking before it even happens,” the 35-year-old Tuivaiti told BBC Sport of the connection with her former international team-mate.
“We’ve grown up in a similar system so we want to bring what we’ve learnt over here and share it. I keep thinking man… I can’t believe we’re back together doing this.”
Tuivaiti is well-known for her skills and tricks at goal shooter which, paired with mid-courter Leota’s deadly feeds into the circle, could form a formidable partnership this season.
“If something happens on court there’s a connection between us through the eyes that gives you an entire paragraph of what just happened, what should’ve happened and why it didn’t happen,” Tuivaiti added.
“It’s not always nice either. There are some really deep, angry conversations happening with one glance!”
Leota said she welcomes Tuivaiti’s “leadership and presence” and knows her skill and height in the circle will give them an extra edge when it comes to setting up goals.
“I know I can let balls go and even if they’re too high she’ll still pull them in and she’ll have my back – I have complete trust and faith,” Leota added.