There’s a wonderful story behind the extraordinary success of Adelaide Thunderbirds coach Tania Obst.
Tania served a lengthy apprenticeship in coaching, working extensively in pathways and developing an exceptional eye for talent along the way. She also learned from some of the best in the business, including legendary Australian coach Julie Fitzgerald and England great Tracey Neville.
Her journey took her to England, where she was part of a coaching team that won Commonwealth Games Gold, but when the Adelaide Thunderbirds coaching job first became available, Tania was overlooked.
Rather than letting it define her, she used it as a line-in-the-sand moment — a point where she decided she would back herself, continue learning and prove that she belonged at the highest level.
And prove it she has.
Tania has now created a genuine Thunderbirds dynasty — three Grand Final victories in the past four seasons, including a record-breaking Grand Final win over the Melbourne Vixens in 2026 after Adelaide finished as minor premiers.
I first met Tania during my time with the NSW Swifts and Giants Netball, so it has been particularly rewarding to watch her journey unfold. From identifying and nurturing talent through the pathways to building an incredible culture at Adelaide, Tania has become one of the most respected coaches in Australian sport.
She also comes from a famous sporting family. Her father was an AFL legend in South Australia and a winner of the competition’s Best and Fairest.
In this episode of The Perfect 10, Tania opens up about the setbacks, mentors, lessons and people who shaped her coaching career — and how being overlooked ultimately became one of the defining moments of her journey.
It’s a terrific conversation with an outstanding coach who has gone from serving her apprenticeship to building one of the great modern dynasties in Australian netball.
We also have something special for you – Tania names the best Starting Seven that she has seen in her time as a coach.
Discover more episodes and conversations with champions at https://www.theperfect10.com.au
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