Heart rates were beating fast and fierce when the marine technicians of HMAS Choules challenged the officers of the watch to a game of 'netball gridiron' while at sea in the Pacific.
Netball gridiron combines netball and American football and the rules are simple: no running with the ball; to win a point, get one foot at the end zone while holding the ball; and, most importantly, don't lose the ball overboard.
Physical training instructor Leading Seaman Melanie Bowman, the competition organiser, said it was important to stay physically active while at sea, and netball gridiron was a crew favourite.
"Everyone is always keen to play sport on the flight deck as it's a huge space and the fresh air is invigorating," Leading Seaman Bowman said.
"Games like netball gridiron are great for team building and ship morale, especially when you're at sea for long periods of time."
The rivalry was passionate during the eight-minute halves, and the officers of the watch fought valiantly, but the marine technicians prevailed in the end with a 10-9 score.
Choules was at sea for a five-week south-west Pacific regional presence deployment aimed at deepening Australia's relationships with its Pacific neighbours.
