Silver Fern Bailey Mes has revealed why she’s decided to retire just two months out from the Netball World Cup.
The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic shooter will play her final ANZ Premiership game against the Southern Steel in Invercargill on Sunday.
The 33-year-old made her international debut in 2012 and went on to play 76 tests.
Mes featured in two World Cup campaigns, winning the 2019 tournament in Liverpool and claiming silver in Sydney in 2015.
She was also part of the Silver Ferns side which clinched bronze at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
The goal attack had surged into form this domestic season and looked to be in the mix for World Cup selection on June 7.
However, Mes said the management of Achilles tendon and knee injuries has worn her down.
”I’ve had to work really, really hard to keep my body in a place where I can perform on court. The timing might seem a little bit strange but knowing what’s ahead and where my body’s at, I just know deep down the timing is right.
”To be where I am now is honestly a lot further than I thought I would get to. It’s going to be another massive step up for those going to worlds in terms of the build-up and the loading. I just know deep down that my body’s not quite where I want it to be.”
Mes said no conversation took place with New Zealand coach Dame Noeline Taurua before the announcement, but she has Taurua’s backing.
”She’s always really supportive of making the decision that’s right for you. She’s seen everything that’s gone on over the last couple of years as well.”
As well as injuries, Mes was also the subject of frequent online vitriol earlier in her career.
”To be able to go through those tougher times and come out the other side, while it’s been tough at times, it makes me a better person. I’m really grateful I’ve got to the point where I’ve genuinely just enjoyed being on court.”
Mes has highlighted the 2019 World Cup win in the final over Australia as the pinnacle of her career.”That was just such a cool moment and Liverpool was a really cool atmosphere.”
Mes will continue fulltime work with Sky TV as a sports imagery editor.
The Netball World Cup runs from July 28 to August 6.
