Airman named to USA Netball Squad Published March 10, 2010 By Tech. Sgt. DaKita Bailey 81st Medical Operations Squadron KEESLER AFB, Ms. -- The 81st Medical Group has a rising sports star in its midst. Alisa Taka, an Airman 1st Class assigned to the 81st Medical Support Squadron logistics flight as a medical material technician, has been named to the USA Senior Netball Squad. What is netball? Think basketball with no backboards, no dribbling and just three seconds to catch and pass the ball. Taka was first introduced to the game in her native country of Fiji. Growing up, she earned several awards and accolades playing the sport. She has even been sought after to play for numerous teams. "I represented my high school for the under 15, 17 and 19 age group," she explained. "I was nominated as the team captain for the under 15 and under 17 age group. "When I was 15, I was invited to join the Tailevu Netball Club, similar to a league, which is played for eight months. At this level I played netball with experienced players, which was tough at times. Being the youngest player on the team and playing against national reps and experienced players was one of the challenges I had to face. "I've learned that if you want to be the best in what you do, learning from your mistakes is a basic element. My dream has always been to succeed in my education and play international netball. "Well, my dreams came true when I learned Jan. 30 I had been selected to play for the USA Senior Netball Squad. I'll find out if I will be a member of the team in April. If selected, I will compete in the World Netball Championship Qualifying Tournament being held on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia. "Being selected for the USA Senior Netball Squad for the World Championships next year in Singapore is an achievement and I'm proud and honored to represent this country in a sport that I love." She added, "I hope someday I will be able to teach people how to play. I'd also love to put the United States on the international netball scene and remind people netball was originally born in the United States. It has never being an easy journey to where I am today but with God anything is possible. I believe we should always do our best and leave the rest to God. "I would like to thank my family for supporting me and also my 'LOGDOG' family for always supporting and encouraging me." Taka has been a member of the Air Force for 10 months and at Keesler for six months. Wanting more information about the sport? Visit www. usanetball.com.