Former Diamond Bec Bulley set to make Canberra coaching debut with Giants

The twice retired Super Netball star landed her first coaching role in the Australian Netball League late last year, signing on as Mel Clarke's assistant.

With a new look squad and a new look coaching staff, Bulley admitted she doesn't know what to expect ahead of the Giants' opening round match against Victoria Fury.

"It's a really good opportunity for me to learn about all the things that go on behind the scenes that I wasn't really aware of as a player," Bulley said.

"I don't really know what to expect because I haven't really been in a role like this before. It'll be great to see this level of netball between Victoria Fury and the Canberra Giants, so I'm just really looking forward to it."

But Bulley isn't the only Giant set to make her debut.

Teenage duo Eliza Burton and Amber Brophy could take the biggest step of their netball careers this weekend if Clarke awards the pair with court time against Melbourne.

The Canberra duo returned from the ACT state program last week so have had limited preparation with the 12-strong squad. But Bulley is confident the pair will fit right into the experienced side.

"It's really nice to have them back in the mix and they've combined well with the other players," Bulley said. "The positions on court are tightly contested and I know whoever is out on court will do a really good job.

"I hope that they do get that opportunity and make their debut for the Giants."

Bulley had nothing but praise for centre-court Burton, who was recently selected in the under-19 Australian squad.

"She's a really smart player," Bulley said.

"She reads off other players and fills the gaps where we need but she's also just one of those lovely girls who takes on board everything that you say to her. We'll continue to see her grow and progress as a netballer."

ANL ROUND ONE:

Victoria Fury v Canberra Giants 5pm Saturday, at the State Netball and Hockey Centre in Melbourne.