Cardwell delighted to play second fiddle
Other athletes would be heartbroken to miss out on a Commonwealth Games playing berth but not Sarah Cardwell.
Cardwell, 22, has been named as a reserve in the Australian squash team and could end up playing singles, doubles or not at all in Glasgow.
But she's not complaining.
Instead, she sees it as a platform on a long-term mission.
"I am perfect for that spot because I'm so excited for the experience," she said.
"I've heard people not be happy with the reserve spot before but I'm so keen for the experience even if I do just watch every match."
Cardwell, the daughter of former world number one Vicki Caldwell, said her goal was to medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
"This way I can get all the exctiment and the overwhelming feeling out of the way."
Her acoomplished mother gave Sarah a backhanded compliment last month, saying Sarah "was not endowed with a huge amount of natural talent".
But the former champion meant it kindly, suggesting it gave rise to fighting qualities that will hold Cardwell in good stead for the future.
Cardwell has overcome a health scare to make the team - a freak eye injury in the WA Open.
"It wasn't even a shot, she just flicked it up and bang," she said.
"I got the tests done and it was a bit worrying at first ... but when there was no permanent damage, I was so happy."
Cardwell, the youngest member of the Australian squad, is clearly seeing a long future in the sport.
