With 2025 set to be a landmark year for Singapore netball – featuring major events like the SEA Games – goal shooter Priscilla Wong had been eager to break into the national team and earn her international debut.
That dream was nearly derailed in February, when a collision during a Netball Super League (NSL) match left the 23-year-old with a concussion, ending her season with the Fier Orcas and forcing her out of action for two months.
“I was in great shape before the season, knowing what was at stake,” Wong said. “When the concussion happened and I couldn’t finish the season, I thought my shot at the national team was gone.”
But in May, national coach Tara Steel called with the news Wong had longed to hear: she had been selected for Singapore’s first international assignment of the year — the UAE Netball Cup in Dubai from June 15 to 21.
Wong, a Nanyang Technological University undergraduate who joined the Opens squad in 2024, called the opportunity a reward for years of hard work.
“From school netball to Singapore A, it’s been a long journey,” she said. “Even being in the Opens doesn’t guarantee you a spot. Everyone’s fighting for a place, so I really want to treasure this chance.”
The call-up comes after a string of injuries over the past three years. Wong ruptured ligaments in her left ankle in 2023, followed by a Lisfranc injury and a meniscus strain in 2024. This year brought a torn ATFL in her right ankle — on top of the concussion.
Despite the setbacks, Wong never walked away. She stayed involved with the team even while sidelined and leaned on her coaches, family, and friends for support.
Originally a softball player, she found netball when her secondary school didn’t offer softball. That twist of fate led to a new path — and now, a place on the international stage.
“I’ve come too far to turn back,” she said. “Each setback has made me tougher and more determined to contribute to the team.”
Coach Steel, who took charge in March, believes Wong can make a big impact.
“She’s a very accurate shooter and strong inside the circle,” Steel said. “Internationally, she’ll be tested against taller, more physical players, but it’s the perfect environment for her to grow.”
Singapore, ranked 26th in the world, open their UAE Cup campaign against Ireland (28th) and will also face Kenya (25th), Namibia (18th), the USA (30th), and hosts UAE (23rd). The team will also play in November’s Nations Cup and December’s SEA Games in Thailand.
“These tournaments are great development platforms,” Steel added. “We’ll face different styles, sizes, and intensities. It’s all about playing smart, staying composed, and using our unique strengths.”
