The NSW Swifts start their campaign against Queensland Firebirds tomorrow night at the Gold Coast Exhibition Centre.

Pratley, who turns 26 on Tuesday, said she was reasonably happy with her preparation.

“We had a short pre-season because of plenty of interruptions which was a bit tough, but we’re ready,” she said.

“Queensland have recruited well and added Australian representative Natalie Medhurst at goal-attack and up and coming defender Amy Stewart who will be two key recruits.

“The Firebirds are one of the toughest teams but I think we’re up to the challenge.

“I’m not looking forward to turning a year older, but hopefully I can celebrate with a win.”

The netball season un-officially started recently with the annual Netball Cup at Olympic Park in Sydney.

The pre-season tournament saw seven of the 10 domestic teams compete in 21 matches across three days.

Matches were played as a four x 10 minute quarter format.

Pratley starred as the Swifts finished the tournament third overall, winning four out of seven games, including a bye.

NSW suffered a narrow two-game loss to West Coast Fever in the opening match but bounced back to win 30-29 over Melbourne Vixens.

Pratley then posted 17 goals from 23 attempts as NSW defeated South-ern Steel 33-23.

After receiving a bye, the side lost to eventual cup winners Queensland Firebirds 29-24, but won their remaining contests against Central Pulse and Adelaide Thunder-birds.

Pratley finished the tournament with 64 goals from 84 shots.

“I was reasonably happy but there is always room for improvement and I’ll keep hoping those shots go through,” Pratley said.

“We tried different combinations so we didn’t really focus on winning but the girls looked sharp.”

The Swifts enter the championship looking for redemption after they fell from being premiers in 2008 to finishing second last.

Unfortunately, the team played in eight thrillers, losing seven by five goals or less.

Pratley said it was significant for NSW to get off on the right foot this year.

“After coming close in so many games last year, it’s important for us to start well and build our confidence,” she said.