In Focus: Emma Sykes and her golden opportunity

Mon, Nov 28, 2016, 6:30 AM
Marty Cambridge
by Marty Cambridge
Ever wondered what it would be like to debut for the World Series Champions and Olympic gold medalists? We introduce Emma Sykes, part of generation next, as she prepares to make her pull on the Australian jersey for the first time.

It's rare that as a journalist you get behind the scenes access to any team, let alone World Champions and Olympic gold medalists. 

However, last tournament I got to do exactly that, allowed by head coach, Tim Walsh, to film the inner workings of the Australian Women's Sevens team as they prepared for the Oceania Rugby Sevens Championships in Suva. 

It was a squad that had some experienced campaigners and plenty of fresh faces from the side that won gold in Rio, with three members of generation next in line to make their debut. 

This is the story of one of those debutants. 

Share
John Williamson and the Wallabies are reunited once again, with the legendary performer set to feature before the Sydney Test against Argentina. Photo: Getty Images
Waltzing back: Iconic Australian musician John Williamson confirmed to perform at Wallabies Test
Johnny Fisher has gone from wearing the Red Rose to plotting its defeat with the Wallabies. Photo: Getty Images
A rose by another name: Johnny Fisher and the English influence helping give Wallabies Twickenham edge
England: The Ultimate Guide for the Wallabies next opponent
The Springboks are hunting for the Nations Championship. Photo: Getty Images
South Africa, France eye bragging rights in inaugural Nations Championship