Tuesday 6 February 2018 19:11, UK
Rising star Jodie Gibson says 2017 was the year her life changed forever, as she became a member of the England netball programme.
Gibson made her international debut against Malawi in November, and the 27-year-old said she now has a much greater confidence in her own abilities than before.
The defender is part of the national squad which has its next outing in the forthcoming Quad Series, which starts this weekend at the Copperbox Arena, in London's Olympic Park.
Looking back on her recent elevation in the women's game, Gibson told Sportswomen: "In 2017, it was the year netball became the centre of my life.
"I didn't have to worry about going to work anymore and became a full-time athlete - and really saw the benefits.
"I'm in England's full-time programme and in camp four days a week.
"But I don't have to rush to work. I can wake up and be me, and just focus on netball and I'm grateful.
"It's given me confidence. In the past I'd look at other girls and think 'I'm not on your level.'
"But I'm now hoping to make the Commonwealth Games. The first time I ever watched netball was at the Games in Manchester [in 2002].
"So, if I am involved, it'll be all I ever wanted. I'm hoping people look at me and think 'Jodie Gibson is good'."
Watch the Quad Series - featuring England, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand - live on Sky Sports.
