4TG
4TG (For The Girls) is the podcast empowering the next generation of female athletes to build confidence, break barriers, and thrive — in sport and in life. Through real, raw conversations with elite athletes, coaches, and changemakers, we share the stories, tools, and inspiration young women need to chase bold goals and shape the future of women’s sport.
4TG
Sidelined, Selected, Seen: Whitney Souness on Injuries, Non‑Selection & Fighting for Your Place in Women’s Sport
In this episode, we sit down with Silver Ferns midcourter Whitney Souness , our first professional netballer and first Kiwi guest. Whitney talks through her rise in elite sport, the expectations placed on her and the tough realities that come with high-performance environments. She talks about major setbacks, including a ruptured ACL and the emotional weight of non-selection, most recently missing out on the Silver Ferns squad.
Key Takeaways
- Your journey isn’t linear: injuries, setbacks, and non-selection don’t define you — they often redirect you.
- Support systems matter: family, coaches, and mentors have played a massive role in Whitney’s resilience.
- Non-selection is not a reflection of your worth: sometimes it’s timing, fit, or one coach’s preference.
- Women’s sport needs investment: pay, resources, and visibility gaps still impact performance and longevity.
- Balance is essential: journaling, faith, and creative outlets like DJing help keep her grounded.
Timestamps
00:00:00 – Introduction
00:00:48 – Growing up around netball and first club.
00:03:39 – Netball became serious.
00:05:32 – Early belief from coaches; support network.
00:06:37 – Family backing through highs/lows.
00:08:46 – Recent non-selection from the Silver Ferns.
00:11:42 – Family reassurance and mindset shift.
00:12:26 – Selection is subjective; timing + fit.
00:14:04 – When doors close, opportunities open.
00:17:47 – ACL rupture early in career.
00:19:19 – Returning in eight months.
00:20:17 – Mental toll of rehab + identity.
00:22:09 – Reality of being a woman in pro sport.
00:27:36 – Needed change in women’s sport.
00:29:30 – Importance of funding support staff.
00:31:58 – Resilience tools: journaling + routine + wellbeing
00:35:10 – DJing as a creative outlet.
00:41:47 – Message to young Whitney.
00:43:28 – Planning life after sport.
00:45:35 – Final reflections.
Connect with Whitney - Insta @whitneysouness
Fuel your game the right way - 4TG listeners get 10% off Younify Active supplements designed for athletes. 👉 Grab yours here - https://younifyactive.com/
Recover Smarter with P3 Recovery Port Melbourne - P3 Recovery are helping our 4TG community feel and perform their best 💪 Use code 4TG20 for 20% off casual visits.
If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a five-star review, and share it with a female athlete or coach who needs to hear it.
Stay connected with us on Insta at @4TG_Podcast. Support the 4TG mission on Buy Me a Coffee, every contribution helps us spotlight
For brand collaborations or sponsorships, reach out at kylie@4tg.com.au.
Fuel your game the right way - 4TG listeners get 10% off Younify Active supplements designed for athletes. 👉 Grab yours here
Recover Smarter with P3 Recovery Port Melbourne - P3 Recovery are helping our 4TG community feel and perform their best 💪 Use code 4TG20 for 20% off casual visits. Because recovery isn’t a bonus — it’s a non-negotiable.
If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a five-star review, and share it with a female athlete, parent or coach who needs to hear it.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at @4TG_Podcast.
For brand collaborations or sponsorships, reach out at kylie@4tg.com.au.
Production Credit: Edited and produced by @the32collective_ / https://www.the32collective.co/