You can find Jess Anstiss at the UWA Recreation Centre where she helps people work on their fitness as a UWA Sport Fitness Trainer. However when she’s not putting people through their paces you’ll probably find her on the netball court battling it out in arguably the toughest domestic competition in the world.

For the second year Jess is a core member of the West Coast Fever, WA’s Suncorp Super Netball team which is currently at the top of the ladder.

“I have a degree in Exercise Sport and Rehab Science, and it’s great to transfer what I learnt into my role at UWA Sport.

“It’s my first job out of University and its great working with such a variety of clients, and learning from the other trainers.

“It’s also really rewarding to pass on my knowledge to clients, some of it learnt at university and some through my Fever strength and conditioning coach, who’s up-to-date with the latest training techniques,” Jess says.

UWA is a proud supporter of the West Coast Fever and last year began an official three-year partnership through the Community Partnership Program.

The partnership represented an unprecedented step in Western Australian women’s sport, the first between an elite female sporting team and tertiary education institution.

“It was coincidental timing that the role came up with UWA Sport as I entered the workforce, but working with one of the Fever’s partners definitely creates a special connection.

“On my first day I worked UWA O-Day and some of my Fever team mates were there too – so it’s great having that crossover,” Jess says.

After being recognised as the Fever’s Most Valuable Player in her first season, Jess is again a key player this year and is relishing the challenge.

“Last year was my first season, and it was incredible to play against some of the idols I grew up watching.

“This season we’re going really well as a team, I think we’ve really stepped up the level we’re playing at, and it’s important we keep building,” Jess says.

Around half way through the season the team are looking good to make the finals which begin next month, which would be a first for the Fever.

“Our goal is to make finals, especially after missing out last year – so while we’re taking it one game at a time that’s definitely what we’re working towards,” Jess says.