“I don’t think it ever becomes routine,” coach Tracey Hughes said.
“Going through a season undefeated is a fantastic achievement, but every season brings its own challenges, and you still have to earn it every week.
“The excitement is definitely there, particularly knowing we have the opportunity to finish another season with a premiership — three from three would be an amazing feeling and such an achievement.”
The Blues have been as dominant as ever, led particularly by their attacking end.
Hughes and fellow goaler, and recently crowned best-and-fairest, Tamara Cummins, are one and two on the league scoring charts, the Blues having drained 309 more goals than any other team.
“We’ve got experienced, accurate goalers who have been able to put up plenty of goals, but it’s certainly a team effort,” Hughes said.
“Our midcourt and defensive end work hard to create turnovers and opportunities, and that gives our attack plenty of ball to work with.
“Everyone plays their role, and I think that experience and trust across the whole team has been a big part of our success.”
Tongala rolled through Moama by 18 goals in the semi-final, and will take on the Mowers again in the grand final.
“We’re expecting them to bring plenty of pressure from the first whistle,” Hughes said.
“For us, it’s about sticking to what we’ve done well all year, and making sure we’re switched on for the full four quarters.
“We know what we’re capable of, and ultimately, we just want to enjoy it and go out there and play how we do each week.
We’ve worked hard all year to get ourselves into this position, and now it’s about going out there, playing for each other and giving ourselves the best chance of bringing home another premiership.”
Hughes herself recently reached the 500-game milestone last month and could be following it up with three titles as coach.
“I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” she said.
“Also, to still be there to play with my three daughters as well in under-15s and under 13s is pretty special.
“I’ve had some amazing coaches along the way (Michelle Muholland, Adam Sloan, Dylan Nexhip, Di Hanslow, just to name a few) and been lucky enough to play along some very talented people.
“To be able to follow that milestone with another premiership would be pretty incredible.”
“I’m so proud of this group and the way they support and encourage each other, as well as the incredible support they give me.
“They play for each other, lift each other up and, every time they step onto the court, it’s done with a smile.
“That’s what makes this team so special.
“We’ve had such a great year, and I’m really excited to run out with them all on Saturday and share the moment together.”
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