Football and Netball 2021

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WELCOME

LONG WAIT FINALLY OVER This time last year, no district football or netball fan could have foreseen what 2020 eventually threw at us.

By the time action resumes in the leagues McPherson Media Group’s annual Football and Netball Magazine covers it will have been more than 18 months since competitive matches were staged.

But it makes this, the 17th edition, the most rewarding of all.

Our sports journalists have heard from clubs across the Goulburn and Murray valleys ahead of the upcoming campaign, and the message is a clear one — how good it will be to just be back out there in 2021.

Along with the usual Goulburn Valley League, Kyabram District League, Murray Football Netball League and Picola District Football Netball League coverage, select teams from the Ovens and King Football Netball League and

Heathcote District Football Netball League have joined the magazine for the first time this year.

When you add the debut of AFL Masters teams as well, this product holds comfortably the most stories of any of its predecessors — and rightfully so as our team attempts to capture the cautious optimism emanating across the land and bottle it for your consumption.

Northern Country Women’s League, Shepparton District Junior Football League, Shepparton Netball Association and Goulburn Valley Football Umpires Association action returns, as does an assessment of the district exports trying their hand in the NAB League, AFL and AFLW ranks.

This season will be one like no other, and once you find your way to the end of this magazine make sure you join us online at sheppnews.com.au or look for the hashtag MMGSport on social media to come with us on the journey it will take us on.

Cover picture:

FOOTBALL &NETBALL 2021

Shepparton United’s Jessie Barnes and Kyabram’s Mick Mattingly have had long reigns at the top of the Goulburn Valley League tree as the respective Wellman Family and Morrison medallists from 2019. With netball and football back across the region this year, can anyone knock them from their individual thrones?

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Contributors: Tyler Maher, Aydin Payne, Rodney Woods, Andrew Johnston, Brayden May, Meg Saultry, Liam Nash, Alex Mitchell, Max Stainkamph, Jamie Lowe, Madeline Fogarty.

Photographers: Rodney Braithwaite, Megan Fisher, Bruce Povey, Luke Hemer, Cath Grey, Steve Huntley, Karl Phillipson, Ray Sizer, Holly Daniel, Julie Mercer, Tyler Maher, Greg Kirk, Erin Lyons, Bec Flisher, Werribee FC, Bruce McKean, Renee Fraser, Bethanie Sessions, AAP.

– TYLER MAHER MCPHERSON MEDIA GROUP SPORTS EDITOR

Editorial design: Brendan Cain Sub-editing: Ron Anderson Advertising design: Aaron Brown 5820 3187 Published by Shepparton News Melbourne Rd, Shepparton Phone 5831 2312 | www.sheppnews.com.au facebook.com/SheppNewsSport | twitter.com/sheppnewssport

TIPSTERS Tyler Maher

Aydin Payne

Liam Nash

Shepparton News sports reporter

Shepparton News sports reporter

PREMIERS

PREMIERS

PREMIERS

GVFL: Euroa GVNL: Mooroopna MFL: Congupna MNL: Rumbalara KDFL: Violet Town KDNL: Girgarre PDFL: Katamatite PDNL: Katamatite Morrison Medal: BJ Squire (Shepparton Swans) Wellman Medal: Ellie Warnock (Euroa) GVFL leading goal-kicker: Steven Stroobants (Rochester) Story of the year prediction: New ex-AFL talent dominates

GVFL: Rochester GVNL: Shepparton United MFL: Tongala MNL: Rumbalara KDFL: Avenel KDNL: Nagambie PDFL: Berrigan PDNL: Tocumwal Morrison Medal: Jack Hellier (Euroa) Wellman Medal: Laura Cole (Shepparton United) GVFL leading goal-kicker: Steven Stroobants (Rochester) Story of the year prediction: Shepparton Swans to go from

GVFL: Tatura GVNL: Shepparton Swans MFL: Nathalia MNL: Moama KDFL: Violet Town KDNL: Dookie United PDFL: Katamatite PDNL: Strathmerton Morrison Medal: Nick Fothergill (Tatura) Wellman Medal: Jessie Barnes (Shepparton United) GVFL leading goal-kicker: Kyle Mueller (Kyabram) Story of the year prediction: The stairs will drop down from the

finishing last in 2019 to securing a finals spot in 2021.

attic for Tatura in the competition’s latter stages, with Nick Fothergill booting five in the final to see the Bulldogs climb to their first flag since 2012.

McPherson Media Group sports editor

across the region, with the likes of Brock McLean, Logan Austin, Jackson Trengove, Jared Brennan and Sam Wright finishing on the podium of their respective league medal counts.

Rodney Woods

Andrew Johnston Riverine Herald sports reporter

Meg Saultry

Shepparton News sports reporter

PREMIERS

PREMIERS

PREMIERS

GVFL: Echuca GVNL: Seymour MFL: Nathalia MNL: Moama KDFL: Avenel KDNL: Ardmona PDFL: Katamatite PDNL: Katunga Morrison Medal: Jack Hellier (Euroa) Wellman Medal: Sarah Szczykulski (Seymour) GVFL leading goal-kicker: Chris Nield (Mooroopna) Story of the year prediction: Ardmona to harness the momentum

GVFL: Echuca GVNL: Shepparton MFL: Tongala MNL: Deniliquin KDFL: Girgarre KDNL: Merrigum PDFL: Waaia PDNL: Katunga Morrison Medal: Mick Mattingly (Kyabram) Wellman Medal: Tanner Edwards (Shepparton) GVFL leading goal-kicker: Kyle Mueller (Kyabram) Story of the year prediction: Tongala breaks through for its first

GVFL: Kyabram GVNL: Shepparton United MFL: Numurkah MNL: Tongala KDFL: Nagambie KDNL: Avenel PDFL: Tungamah PDNL: Picola United Morrison Medal: Mick Mattingly (Kyabram) Wellman Medal: Sarah Szczykulski (Seymour) GVFL leading goal-kicker: Nick Warnock (Benalla) Story of the year prediction: A flood of teams still in finals

Brayden May

Alex Mitchell

Ron Anderson

Riverine Herald sports reporter

Shepparton News reporter

Shepparton News sport sub-editor

PREMIERS

PREMIERS

PREMIERS

GVFL: Kyabram GVNL: Shepparton MFL: Tongala MNL: Rumbalara KDFL: Girgarre KDNL: Girgarre PDFL: Katamatite PDNL: Katunga Morrison Medal: Andrew Walker (Echuca) Wellman Medal: Jessie Barnes (Shepparton United) GVFL leading goal-kicker: Steven Stroobants (Rochester) Story of the year prediction: Expected battler wins the

GVFL: Kyabram GVNL: Euroa MFL: Nathalia MNL: Rumbalara KDFL: Violet Town KDNL: Nagambie PDFL: Katamatite PDNL: Picola United Morrison Medal: JD Hayes (Euroa) Wellman Medal: Sarah Szczykulski (Seymour) GVFL leading goal-kicker: Kyle Mueller (Kyabram) Story of the year prediction: Kyabam’s special Ks — Kyle Mueller

GVFL: Mooroopna GVNL: Echuca MFL: Nathalia MNL: Rumbalara KDFL: Nagambie KDNL: Lancaster PDFL: Tungamah PDNL: Strathmerton Morrison Medal: Liam Betson (Mooroopna) Wellman Medal: Maddie Wong (Mooroopna) GVFL leading goal-kicker: Steven Stroobants (Rochester) Story of the year prediction: Mooroopna comes from nowhere to

of an influx of talent to notch its first win in years.

premiership. Given no-one played in 2020 it is almost predicted to happen this season. Across all four competitions, there will be at least one surprise premier.

McPherson Media Group sports reporter

Murray Football League premiership — joining a host of 2019 runner-up sides as 2021 flag winners.

and Kayne Pettifer — will both kick 100 goals this season.

contention in the back half of the season, with the year away from the field offering scattered starts to the season for many.

knock off powerhouse Kyabram in the Goulburn Valley League grand final.

GVFL LADDER PREDICTIONS TYLER MAHER

AYDIN PAYNE

LIAM NASH

RODNEY WOODS

ANDREW JOHNSTON

MEG SAULTRY

BRAYDEN MAY

ALEX MITCHELL

RON ANDERSON

1

Kyabram

Kyabram

Kyabram

Kyabram

Echuca

Kyabram

Kyabram

Kyabram

Kyabram

2

Euroa

Rochester

Echuca

Echuca

Kyabram

Echuca

Euroa

Euroa

Mooroopna

3

Rochester

Echuca

Shepparton

Rochester

Rochester

Rochester

Rochester

Rochester

Rochester

4

Echuca

Euroa

Tatura

Euroa

Euroa

Benalla

Echuca

Echuca

Echuca

5

Benalla

Benalla

Mooroopna

Tatura

Benalla

Euroa

Benalla

Benalla

Euroa

6

Tatura

Shepparton Swans

Shepparton United Shepparton

Seymour

Tatura

Tatura

Tatura

Shepparton

7

Shepparton Swans

Tatura

Euroa

Seymour

Tatura

Seymour

Shepparton Swans

Mooroopna

Shepparton Swans

8

Shepparton United Mooroopna

Seymour

Benalla

Mansfield

Shepparton Swans

Shepparton United Shepparton United Tatura

Shepparton

Shepparton United Mooroopna

9

Mooroopna

Shepparton United Mansfield

Mooroopna

Shepparton

Shepparton United

10

Shepparton

Shepparton

Rochester

Shepparton United Shepparton United Mansfield

Shepparton

Shepparton Swans

Benalla

11

Seymour

Seymour

Shepparton Swans

Shepparton Swans

Mooroopna

Mooroopna

Seymour

Seymour

Seymour

12

Mansfield

Mansfield

Benalla

Mansfield

Shepparton Swans

Shepparton

Mansfield

Mansfield

Mansfield

Football and Netball 2021 5

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GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

PREMIER 2019 Kyabram

CHALLENGERS ARE READY The question on all lips heading into the past few Goulburn Valley League football seasons has been consistent.

Can anyone beat Kyabram?

The Bombers have been comfortably the best team of the past decade and will again prove tough to jostle from the top of the table.

Not only have they retained most of their list under coaching duo Brad Edwards and Mick Mattingly, the Bombers have added midfield guns Zac Keogh and Kaine Herbert.

It gives the rest of the competition plenty of chasing to do heading into the campaign.

The teams doing that legwork have all the confidence in their ability to hit the line first though.

Rochester under Steve Stroobants will be a huge

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE PAST PREMIERS 2019: Kyabram 2018: Shepparton 2017: Kyabram 2016: Kyabram 2015: Benalla 2014: Shepparton Swans 2013: Kyabram 2012: Tatura 2011: Shepparton United 2010: Shepparton United

threat — not only because it has added ex-AFL talent Logan Austin and Joe Atley.

The Tigers will enjoy the focal-point Stroobants provides in attack and will look to their mentor to do the bulk of their scoring if the right match-up presents itself.

Echuca will challenge again, even though a few key cogs have moved on from Victoria Park.

The loss of Tim Allan and Dan Willis could reshape the structure of the Murray Bombers — but with the likes of Ben Reid coming into the side it will still be one of the strongest in the league.

Euroa, Benalla and Tatura have recruited well and will be looking to take the next step this season.

The Magpies especially look dangerous on paper, adding a swathe of stars to their list headlined by former Collingwood

VFL captain Jack Hellier.

Mooroopna, Shepparton, Shepparton Swans and Shepparton United have not entered a campaign on such assumed level-pegging in a number of years, and the life it will breathe into their already fierce rivalries is reason to be excited.

The quartet will all push for finals action, but with only six post-season spots up for grabs may not all squeeze in.

Seymour will rely on the depth strong reserves and thirds squads in 2019 gave it after the loss of some stars at the top end, while Mansfield will have a point to prove after undergoing plenty of change in between matches.

– TYLER MAHER

PAST MORRISON MEDALLISTS

2019: Mick Mattingly (Kyabram) 2018: Nik Rokahr (Shepparton) and Sam Martyn (Benalla) 2017: Simon Buckley (Echuca) 2016: Simon Buckley (Echuca) 2015: Ash Watson (Rochester) 2014: Will Martiniello (Benalla) 2013: Luke Morgan (Benalla) 2012: Mark Blake (Mooroopna) 2011: Guy Campbell (Rochester) 2010: Kristian Height (Echuca) MickMattingly

Football and Netball 2021 7

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

BENALLA SAINTS

NickWarnock

FAST FACTS

Returning from a year without football, Benalla coach Jake Pallpratt’s desire this season is to strike the fine balance between striving for success and renewing players’ love of the game.

“Especially after the year off, we just want blokes to enjoy their footy,” Pallpratt said.

“Yeah, we want to be serious and we want to be winning, but I think everyone, with the year off, wants to come down and have fun, so we’ll be trying to make it as enjoyable as we can.

“But I’d be very disappointed if we didn’t play finals and really contend.

“I think our best is going to be good enough to contend with anyone at times.

“Obviously it’s about sustaining that for long periods of time and I’ve got no doubt at times we’re going to be good enough to beat anyone.”

With a good mix of old and new faces returning, Pallpratt said he would deploy the same game plan he had in the works ahead of last year’s failed season.

“We’ll keep it pretty simple, we’re not an overly big team,” he said.

“Patty’s had a really good pre-season, he’s barely missed a session and he’s got in the gym,” Pallpratt said.

“We’ll be looking to him to be really dangerous up forward and to own that position.”

With a round one clash against Shepparton Swans looming large for the Saints, Pallpratt said he expected a fierce return from many clubs across the league as football resumes.

“It will be interesting, I expect much won’t change. We’re going to have to be ready to go from round one if we want to win,” he said.

– MEG SAULTRY

JOINED LEAGUE: 1896 TO 1946, 1998 TO PRESENT NICKNAME: SAINTS GROUND: BENALLA SHOWGROUNDS COACH: JAKE PALLPRATT PRESIDENT: LLOYD JOHNSON PREMIERSHIPS: 1940, 2015 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: T. PASQUALI (1999), R. PRIEST (2008 JOINT), L. MORGAN (2013), W. MARTINIELLO (2014), S. MARTYN (2018 JOINT) 2019 FINISH: SEVENTH (9–9) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: WILL MARTINIELLO 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: BRODY WEBSTER (45)

AS LOCAL AS A WALK AROUND LAKE BENALLA

AS WISE AS 113 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS

8 Football and Netball 2021

“We’ll try to play to our strengths and as most teams do, we’ll try to put a lot of pressure on and move the ball as quick as we can.”

One of the biggest additions to the team will be ruckman Callum Crisp, who has remained committed to the Saints after crossing from South Bendigo last pre-season.

“With his positioning around the ground, I think if Cal can get his hand on the ball first, which I think he will most of the time, he’s going to be really important for us in the centre there,” Pallpratt said.

As for other major positional plans, Pallpratt will forge ahead with a return to the forward line for Nick Warnock, while Tom Bennett’s homecoming will further strengthen the backline.

“We’ll try and keep things really settled if we can,” Pallpratt said.

“But obviously we’ve got the option there to throw blokes around if we need to, so we’ll be pretty versatile.”

One player Pallpratt is expecting big things from this year, though, is young gun Pat Warner.

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GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

“

BENALLA’S SEASON FIXTURE

We’ll be looking to him to be really dangerous up forward and to own that position.

“

– JAKE PALLPRATT, COACH CallumCrisp

BrodyWebster

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Jack Doidge, Zac Amarant (Benalla All Blacks), Sam Harris (Holbrook), Jake Pallpratt, Zach Pallpratt (Sandhurst), Callum Crisp (South Bendigo), Dale Martin (Wangaratta), Reed Bonat (Yarrawonga), Darcy Laffy (Elmore), Nathan Hill (overseas), Tom Bennett.

OUT: Steve Murray (Wodonga).

PatrickWarner

GAME CHANGER

BRODY WEBSTER: Though he was the Saints’ leading goal-kicker in 2019, Webster looks set for a big year further up the ground as he moves closer towards his traditional role off half-back.

Already an X-factor player with his athleticism and marking ability, the move should have Webster getting further opportunity to shine with greater time on the ball.

ROUND 1

SHEPPARTON SWANS (A)

APRIL 3

ROUND 2

ECHUCA (H)

APRIL 10

ROUND 3

SHEPPARTON (A)

APRIL 17

ROUND 4

MANSFIELD (H)

APRIL 24

ROUND 5

EUROA (A)

MAY 1

ROUND 6

KYABRAM (A)

MAY 8

ROUND 7

SEYMOUR (H)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

TATURA (H)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

SHEPPARTON UNITED (A)

JUNE 5

ROUND 10

ROCHESTER (H)

JUNE 12

ROUND 11

MOOROOPNA (A)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

EUROA (H)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

MANSFIELD (A)

JULY 10

ROUND 14

KYABRAM (H)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

TATURA (A)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

SHEPPARTON SWANS (H)

AUGUST 7

ROUND 17

SEYMOUR (A)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

SHEPPARON UNITED (H)

AUGUST 21

SEASON PREDICTION

4TH–8TH: With the core of the Saints’ group coming into its prime, and little movement of players during the layoff, it’s hard not to see the Saints make the small strides required to return to finals once again. Its only downfall could be a failure to gel quickly enough, or struggle with the same consistency issues that plagued their 2019 season.

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GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

ECHUCA MURRAY BOMBERS For a year, footballers have been waiting to get back on the field.

For Echuca, it has felt so much longer.

The last time the Murray Bombers took the field in a Goulburn Valley League match was the 2019 grand final, a loss to Kyabram.

And while the fire burns for all clubs to resume their season, no-one is waiting more than Echuca to avenge its loss.

“If you spoke to some of our guys who played in that game, who were on the ground crying at the end after losing, I think they could tell you how much it still hurts,” co-coach Simon Maddox said.

“We’ve had a year off and that has energised a lot of people, but those things don’t go away easily. But they do motivate you and they will motivate this group even more for this season.”

Echuca will again look within its own backyard this season, replacing a number of Melbourne-based players with locals, as well as preparing to reap the benefits of an under-18 side that looked all

AngusByrne

FAST FACTS

but certain to claim a third straight premiership in the abandoned season.

“Those young guys who went through the under-18s, they’re now 19, 20, 21 years old, they’ve grown in size and developed as players,” Maddox said.

“They’re great young players and we know they will add a lot to our team in the next few years, and we can’t wait to see what they contribute to the senior side now.”

Maddox said while he and co-coach Andrew Walker had their plans and game style, his group had been quick to give its input when needed.

“They all want to win, so if they have an idea they are quick to put their hand up,” he said.

“You love to see that enthusiasm from all our players. And when you have a guy come back to the club like Ben Reid, a local who people look up to, who then gives his input and what he has learned, it’s a big deal.

“We want to get the best out of our players, they want to get the best out of themselves and it shows.”

Echuca has made it clear — it wants to be there at the pointy end of the season, playing off for the grand final once again.

But, as Maddox will tell you, it’s not just about what one team will do.

“A senior premiership would be a great outcome,” he said.

“But we want this group to go above that. We want grand finals and premierships in every grade, we want to be the champion club of the competition.

“This is about the whole Echuca Football Club and delivering success to our club and our town.”

– ANDREW JOHNSTON

JOINED LEAGUE: 1909 TO 1942, 1974 NICKNAME: MURRAY BOMBERS GROUND: VICTORIA PARK CO-COACHES: ANDREW WALKER AND SIMON MADDOX PRESIDENT: ASH BYRNE PREMIERSHIPS: 1977, 1979, 2001, 2002 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: S. EISHOLD (1995 JOINT), S. ORR (1997), C. SHOLL (2001), R. ARCHARD (2003 JOINT), C. DURIE (2006), K. HEIGHT (2010), S. BUCKLEY (2016–17) 2019 FINISH: RUNNER-UP (18–4) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: ANDREW WALKER 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: DANIEL WILLIS (42)

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10 Football and Netball 2021

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

“

“

A senior premiership would be a great outcome

BenReid

– SIMON MADDOX, CO-COACH

AndrewWalkerandSimonMaddox

ECHUCA’S SEASON FIXTURE ROUND 1

SEYMOUR (H)

APRIL 3

ROUND 2

BENALLA (A)

APRIL 10

ROUND 3

KYABRAM (H)

APRIL 17

ROUND 4

ROCHESTER (A)

APRIL 24

ROUND 5

UNITED (A)

MAY 1

ROUND 6

MANSFIELD (H)

MAY 8

ROUND 7

SWANS (A)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

SHEPPARTON (H)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

TATURA (A)

JUNE 5

ROUND 10

MOOROOPNA (H)

JUN 12

ROUND 11

EUROA (A)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

UNITED (H)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

KYABRAM (A)

JULY 3

ROUND 14

ROCHESTER (H)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

SWANS (H)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

SEYMOUR (A)

JULY 31

ROUND 17

TATURA (H)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

SHEPPARTON (A)

AUGUST 21

GAME CHANGER

PLAYER CHANGES

BEN REID: Returning to the Murray Bombers for the new season, the VFL-hardened Reid has the ability to be the best defender in the GVL. Reid’s ability to intercept and control across half-back will also take pressure off Cam Valentine, who has been Echuca’s best defender for a while.

Reid’s addition could make for the best one-two punch in the competition.

IN: Aaron Lonergan (Palmertson), Logan Prout (Leitchville-Gunbower), Liam Tenace (Monash Blues), Ben Fulford (Echuca United), Liam Guinan (Echuca United), Ben Reid (St Joseph’s), Lincoln Sieben (Leitchville-Gunbower).

OUT: Tim Allan (Murrumbeena), Riley Clarke (Strathfieldsaye) Darby Henderson (Grovedale), Ned Lanyon (Yarraville Seddon), Fraser Verhey (Moama), Dan Willis (club unknown), Brock Kennedy (Moama).

FINISHING RANGE

1ST — 3RD: An all or nothing year for Echuca.

It has been on the up since the Walker/ Maddox tandem took over for the 2018 season, and with young guns coming through from an unbeatable under-18 side, it should be a contender for a few years. But the pressure continues to grow after a grand final loss in 2019. It needs to strike while Walker, Kirkby and the elder players are still there.

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Football and Netball 2021 11

1300

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

EUROA MAGPIES

AdamGiobbi

FAST FACTS

If a side is to come from the clouds and topple the Goulburn Valley League’s elite this season, perhaps Euroa would be the best bet to do so.

Before the cancelled season, the Magpies appeared poised to shoot straight back into finals contention after a rare miss in 2019, and with just as much talent committed for this year, big things are forecast at Memorial Oval.

Leading the club’s — and perhaps the league’s — recruiting is former Collingwood VFL captain Jack Hellier, who after being set to split time between Magpie outfits will be full-time Euroa this season.

Ben Giobbi — brother of power forward Adam, who impressed greatly in 2019 — adds to the midfield and will combine with Hellier and elite talent JD Hayes to give the Magpies one of the competition’s best midfield trios, with new ruck Andrew Smith to put the ball on a platter for them.

Coach Scott Rowan, who returns for his second season in charge of

the Magpies, said things couldn’t be shaping up better for his side.

“We’re really happy with how we’ve recruited over the last year, everyone has stayed signed on other than Lewin Davis, and he’s gone to play in Bendigo with a mate,” he said.

“We wanted help in the midfield for the boys that have been there the last two or three years, and a bit more bulk through there. We also wanted some more forward targets to help out Jett Trotter, and a ruckman as well — we were lucky to land one of them too.”

Other additions include forwards Tristan Davies and Erish Uthayakumar, who with Adam Giobbi and Jett Trotter give the side seriously explosive potential to hit the scoreboard at will, while former player Adrian Karatzas returns having reinvented himself as a running half-back flank.

And that’s not all the Magpies boast to facilitate a speedy transition back to finals football

from a 6–12 2019; its next generation of stars including Tom Panuccio, Ben Bath, Lachie Hill and Robbie Paradzayi appear among the region’s finest.

All in all, Rowan expected his side to quickly show it was among the competition’s best.

“You’ve always got targets, you’d be crazy not to — we think we’re a genuine top three possibility, and who knows what happens after you get there,” he said.

“We feel we’ve got really good players on all lines and we’re all good mates after a couple of pre-seasons together, so the sky is the limit.”

Of remaining stars, Trotter took himself into the GVL’s upperechelon with a stellar, 38-goal 2019, while Hayes’ first season without the added pressure of coaching the side saw him net the club’s best and fairest.

– ALEX MITCHELL

JOINED LEAGUE: 1971 NICKNAME: MAGPIES GROUND: MEMORIAL OVAL COACH: SCOTT ROWAN PRESIDENT: SCOTT WATSON PREMIERSHIPS: 1971, 1990 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: ADAM BARKER (1998) 2019 FINISH: NINTH (6–12) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JD HAYES 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: JETT TROTTER (38)

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“

“

EUROA MAGPIES SEASON FIXTURE

We’re really happy with how we’ve recruited over the last year

– SCOTT ROWAN, COACH

AdrianKaratzas

JettTrotter

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Riley Aldous (Yea), John Baring, Adrian Karatzas (Old Melburnians), Lachie Cooke (La Trobe University), Tristan Davies (Sydney University), Dan Garside (St Bede’s-Mentone), Ben Giobbi (Rowville), Jack Hellier (Collingwood VFL), Liam Riley (Knox), Andrew Smith (Mt Gravatt), Erish Uthayakumar (Albury), Daniel Yogarajah.

OUT: Lewin Davis (Eaglehawk), Jimmy Ivill (Murchison-Toolamba), Jake Penman (Port Melbourne Colts).

RobbieParadzayi

GAME CHANGER

JACK HELLIER: Immediately there is a strong argument to call Hellier the GVL’s best player. The superstar midfield boasts more than 100 VFL games and as that side’s former captain, Rowan suggested his leadership could be the thing to gel the new-look Magpies. With Hayes, Giobbi and Hellier in the middle, no matter who opposition sides target, someone will get loose.

ROUND 1

TATURA (H)

APRIL 3

ROUND 2

SHEPPARTON UNITED (A)

APRIL 10

ROUND 3

ROCHESTER (H)

APRIL 17

ROUND 4

SEYMOUR (A)

APRIL 24

ROUND 5

BENALLA (H)

MAY 1

ROUND 6

SHEPPARTON SWANS (H)

MAY 8

ROUND 7

MOOROOPNA (A)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

MANSFIELD (A)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

SHEPPARTON (H)

JUNE 5

ROUND 10

KYABRAM (A)

JUNE 12

ROUND 11

ECHUCA (H)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

BENALLA (A)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

TATURA (A)

JULY 10

ROUND 14

SEYMOUR (H)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

MANSFIELD (H)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

SHEPPARTON (A)

AUGUST 7

ROUND 17

MOOROOPNA (H)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

ROCHESTER (A)

AUGUST 21

SEASON PREDICTION

2ND-4TH: The Magpies’ top-line talent is elite, as are the kids it has coming through the ranks. Its midfield group could be near-unstoppable, while a forward crew of Trotter, Giobbi, Davies and Uthayakumar seems tough to deal with too.

It speaks to Kyabram’s might that a side with this much talent isn’t a red-hot premiership favourite.

Suzanna Sheed MP

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Football and Netball 2021 13

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

KYABRAM BOMBERS Nothing prepares a playing group for a year out of the game.

But when you live and breathe for your jumper and everyone who wears it like they do in Kyabram, no challenge is too great.

Not even a fourth flag in five seasons.

Kyabram — 83–1 in four seasons — will once again head into the Goulburn Valley League season as the favourites.

Coming into this season, it has undergone another change at the top, with reigning Morrison medallist Mick Mattingly joining 200-game club legend Brad Edwards as co-coach of the Bombers.

Edwards was appointed for the 2020 season, with the two now to walk in the gigantic footsteps of the great Paul Newman.

For Mattingly, it’s a challenge to embrace.

“No-one can replace a guy like Paul,” he said.

“He gave so much for our club, we loved him and we would have done anything for him on the field.

“But change can be a good thing, and I think having new voices has

BradEdwards

FAST FACTS

been really refreshing for the club.”

But with another season comes a new challenge — burnout.

When a club has been winning for so long, there comes an element of fatigue, and it’s one Mattingly is well aware of.

“It’s something as a group we really need to be aware of,” he said.

“It’s something that can be in the back of your mind and can play a part in your season.

“But we have such a driven group of individuals, and when they come together and are playing for

each other, they want to achieve success.”

And following a year off, there may be a few familiar faces around the club again.

“We made a real goal to recruit for guys around Kyabram who could train with us,” Mattingly said.

“Having locals come in who have good connections and live around town, they want to play for the jumper and be a part of the culture that has been built at Kyabram for a long time.”

Such is the Kyabram way.

– ANDREW JOHNSTON

Kyabram

JOINED LEAGUE: 1894 NICKNAME: BOMBERS GROUND: KYABRAM RECREATION RESERVE CO-COACHES: BRAD EDWARDS AND MICK MATTINGLY PRESIDENT: PETER LEARMONTH PREMIERSHIPS: 1919, 1921, 1922, 1926, 1927, 1928, 1948, 1950, 1958, 1975, 1996, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2019 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: J. COOPER (1958, 1961), C. STEWART (1963), R. CLAY (1964), P. GITTOS (1987), B. GUGLIOTTI (1993), M. MATTINGLY (2019) 2019 FINISH: PREMIER (21–0) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: MICK MATTINGLY 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: KYLE MUELLER (75)

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“

KYABRAM’S SEASON FIXTURE

“

We made a real goal to recruit for guys around Kyabram who could train with us

– BRAD EDWARDS AND MICK MATTINGLY, CO-COACHES

KyleMueller

MickMattingly

GAME CHANGER

PLAYER CHANGES INS: Zac Keogh (Seymour), Jarryd Pertzel (Eaglehawk), Kaine Herbert (Undera), Sean Dillon (NT), Nic Denahy (Echuca United), Jake Parkinson (Merrigum).

OUTS: Jake Reeves (Retired), Aaron Hayes (East Point), Tom Holman (LBU), Josh Pell, Jack Cattanach.

KYLE MUELLER: We wrote this a year ago, and nothing has changed.

The electric forward has 190 goals in the past three seasons alone for the Bombers — and 209 at senior level.

When a player of his calibre is getting the second-best opposition small most weeks, it is a recipe for carnage.

ROUND 1

ROCHESTER (A)

APRIL 3

ROUND 2

SWANS (H)

APRIL 10

ROUND 3

ECHUCA (A)

APRIL 17

ROUND 4

SHEPPARTON (H)

APRIL 24

ROUND 5

SEYMOUR (A)

MAY 1

ROUND 6

BENALLA (H)

MAY 8

ROUND 7

MANSFIELD (H)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

UNITED (A)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

MOOROOPNA (A)

JUNE 5

ROUND 10

EUROA (H)

JUNE 12

ROUND 11

TATURA (H)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

SWANS (A)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

ECHUCA (H)

JULY 3

ROUND 14

BENALLA (A)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

SHEPPARTON (A)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

UNITED (H)

AUGUST 8

ROUND 17

ROCHESTER (H)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

TATURA (A)

AUGUST 21

SEASON PREDICTION

1ST: There is nothing else much to say.

Kyabram has won every game but one in the past four seasons, it hasn’t lost much in terms of talent, and what it has it has picked up replacements for.

And a year out of the game may help to get the competitive juices flowing.

It again feels like the competition is doing anything it can to stop the mighty Bombers.

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GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

MANSFIELD EAGLES

JamesLawton

FAST FACTS

Many people are already labelling Mansfield as one of the teams who will make up the bottom places on the ladder in 2021.

With an extended list of outs which has only grown since 2020, the Eagles look set to field a young side with little senior experience.

It means new coach Chad Owens could be facing a baptism of fire after taking over from Andrew Browne.

But given his experience as a premiership coach in Queensland, Owens is well aware of how much work goes into tasting the ultimate success.

“The transition has been really easy and I’ve really been enjoying the role,” Owens said.

“Everyone wants to be right up there at the end of the season and we’re no different. Our goal is to be competitive and give it our best every week.

“Some of the older guys have been really invigorated by having more younger players around them.

“Despite what outsiders might say, we’re really excited about the season ahead.”

While the list of outs might make for heavy reading, the Eagles are also set to have a number of new and former players pull on the club colours this season.

“We put a real emphasis on having local guys in our playing group,” Owens said.

“We wanted to bring in people who know what we are all about and the standards the club carries.

“It’s important we give people the opportunity to play for their local club.”

Some of the new faces include Tom Burley, who had previously committed from St Kevin’s Old Boys and Will James.

While Owens is expecting the likes of Harry Mahoney to take their games to another level.

“I think our younger guys might surprise a few of the doubters throughout the year,” Owens said.

“We’ve got a real good balance of outside speed which will allow us to break the game open.

“We’re aiming to play a fast brand of footy which our supporters will enjoy.”

One player who could be key to that is Patty Marks who is set to

play a major role this season in the Eagles’ bid to play finals.

“We’ve got him on a full-time basis which is very exciting for us,” Owens said.

“He’s previously played as a defender, but we’re looking at using him more in the middle of the ground because of his bigger body.

“We’re probably a little light on for inside midfielders at the moment and we think Patty could help solve the issue.”

– BRAYDEN MAY

JOINED LEAGUE: 1998 NICKNAME: EAGLES GROUND: MANSFIELD RECREATION RESERVE COACH: CHAD OWENS PRESIDENT: BELINDA DE MARIA PREMIERSHIPS: 2004, 2009 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: T. HOTTON (2007) 2019 FINISH: EIGHTH (6–12) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: ANDREW BROWNE 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: JAMES LAWTON (49)

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16 Football and Netball 2021

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

“

MANSFIELD’S SEASON FIXTURE

We’re aiming to play a fast brand of footy which our supporters will enjoy.

“

– CHAD OWENS, COACH

HarryMahoney

BrettMahoney.

PattyMarks

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Tom Burley (St Kevin’s Old Boys), Will James, Lachlan Ritchie, Tim Costigan, Daniel Jones.

OUT: Brant Anselmi, Tom Gardiner, Jack O’Grady, Josh Stefanutti (Knox), Ryan Bartlett, Lachie Christopher, Tom German (Bacchus Marsh), Al Bennett, Will Foster, Guy Murray (Bonnie Doon), Brent Rose, Andrew Browne

GAME CHANGER

ROUND 1

MOOROOPNA (H))

APRIL 3

ROUND 2

TATURA (A)

APRIL 10

ROUND 3

BYE.

ROUND 4

BENALLA (A)

APRIL 24

ROUND 5

SHEPPARTON (H)

MAY 1

ROUND 6

ECHUCA (A)

MAY 8

ROUND 7

KYABRAM (A)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

EUROA (H)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

ROCHESTER (A)

JUNE 5

ROUND 10

SHEPPARTON UNITED (H)

JUNE 12

ROUND 11

SHEPPARTON SWANS (A)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

SEYMOUR (A)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

BENALLA (H)

JULY 10

ROUND 14

TATURA (H)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

EUROA (A)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

(1) ROCHESTER (H) (2) SEYMOUR (H)

JULY 31 AUGUST 7

ROUND 17

SHEPPARTON UNITED (A)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

SHEPPARTON SWANS (H)

AUGUST 21

PATTY MARKS: Eagles fans are well aware of this man’s talents and he looks set for a massive season. Poised to take on a new role which means he could take his game to another level in a warning for competition rivals.

SEASON PREDICTION:

10TH – 12TH: With such a young list, but it is hard to see the Eagles regularly challenging the competition’s top sides. But if their top tier talent is able to fire on a weekly basis opposition clubs could have a fight on their hands.

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Football and Netball 2021 17

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

MOOROOPNA CATS

LachieDevine

FAST FACTS

There is a real feeling of optimism beaming out of Mooroopna Recreation Reserve ahead of the upcoming Goulburn Valley League season.

The Cats have battled near the bottom of the ladder for some time now, but with John Lamont at the helm look ready to climb at least a few rungs this campaign.

Along with setting up the football department on the field, Lamont has also prioritised off-field tweaks.

Getting the best coaches as possible on every line and bringing the facilities up to the highest standard have been key to helping the players focus on what they do best.

“We are really trying to make sure all of the playing group is supported, that’s not to say they haven’t been in the past, but there’s been a renewed effort to give them the best chance possible to notch some personal bests and the like,” Lamont said.

“It’s something super simple, but with our new nets up behind the goals a bloke out doing some solo training is more likely to stick

around for longer doing goalkicking practice because he’s not having to chase his footy all over the place.

“Players have appreciated those little things.

“Darren (Ogier) will take the forwards, Travis Waters the backline and Jason Whittaker the midfield.

“Experienced people pass on that knowledge to the youth and that’s how they can develop really well.

“That specificity will hopefully help across the board at the club, it gives a player — whether they’re in juniors, 18s or all the way up to seniors — one coach they can report to and go to for help and development.”

Lamont is well aware better results won’t just be handed to his group, but in putting a solid structure around them he is giving them the opportunity to launch towards success.

“I’ve been pleased with the response so far from our whole group, but in particular our younger brigade and leaders,” he said.

“After missing a whole year, apart from a few juniors who got one

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– TYLER MAHER

JOINED LEAGUE: 1894 NICKNAME: CATS GROUND: MOOROOPNA RECREATION RESERVE COACH: JOHN LAMONT PRESIDENT: BILL DOWLING PREMIERSHIPS: 1894, 1895, 1896, 1907, 1923, 1924, 1936, 1937, 1938, 1985, 1986 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: L. DWYER (1936), B. MCCARTY (1962), R. WILLETT (1965, 1967, 1968), D. BUX (1972, 1973), G. SAUNDERS (1977), B. OUGH (1979), G. COOPER (1983, 1985), M. BLAKE (2012) 2019 FINISH: 11TH (4–14) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: KYLE GRAY 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: HUDSON THOMAS (36)

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game in, everyone is keen to get back out and play.

“We’ve certainly lost a few as well, had the year off and happy to be doing other things, but those who have come back really missed footy.

“There’s a group of about 10 players out of the under-18s and a few more from the year before who still haven’t gotten to play open-age footy who are bringing plenty of enthusiasm to training.”

Keelin and Liam Betson, Tim Karolidis, Jack Hunt and Chris Nield are just some of the names Mooroopna fans will be cheering this season.

“It’s really important to shape those young players with the standards of the older guys, having them lead the way is great,” Lamont said.

“Matt Deane, Ben Hicks, Lachie Devine have all had great pre-seasons and are in really good nick.

“Keeping your best players out there is key and at this stage the list is looking healthy.”

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

“

MOOROOPNA’S SEASON FIXTURE

Matt Deane, Ben Hicks, Lachie Devine have all had great pre-seasons and are in really good nick

“

– JOHN LAMONT, COACH

TimKarolidis

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Keelin Betson, Liam Betson, Tim Karolidis, Chris Nield, Alex Tattersall, Jack Hunt.

OUT: Kyle Gray, Hudson Thomas.

MORE THAN A GOLF CLUB

JohnLamont

ROUND 1

MANSFIELD (A)

APRIL 3

ROUND 2

SHEPPARTON (H)

APRIL 10

ROUND 3

TATURA (H)

APRIL 17

ROUND 4

SHEPPARTON UNITED (A)

APRIL 24

ROUND 5

SHEPPARTON SWANS (H)

MAY 01

ROUND 6

ROCHESTER (A)

MAY 08

ROUND 7

EUROA (H)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

SEYMOUR (A)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

KYABRAM (H)

JUNE 05

ROUND 10

ECHUCA (A)

JUNE 12

ROUND 11

BENALLA (H)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

SHEPPARTON (A)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

ROCHESTER (H)

JULY 03

ROUND 14

SHEPPARTON SWANS (A)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

SHEPPARTON UNITED (H)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

TATURA (A)

JULY 31

ROUND 17

EUROA (A)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

SEYMOUR (H)

AUGUST 21

GAME CHANGER

FINISHING RANGE

KEELIN BETSON: Betson’s return to Mooroopna Recreation Reserve — along with his brother Liam — drew much fanfare for good reason. The ability for Betson to strengthen Mooroopna’s spine on any line required will give coach John Lamont plenty of flexibility on game day and throughout the campaign.

6TH — 10TH: Mooroopna will be fighting against plenty of teams for that last spot in the finals, but the Cats are confident that even if it does not eventuate this year, their time is coming.

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Football and Netball 2021 19

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

ROCHESTER TIGERS Rochester may be a small country town, but something big is brewing under new coach Steve Stroobants.

After the false start, which was 2020, the Tigers have been quietly going about their business building a list to contend with the Goulburn Valley League’s best teams.

And that’s why Stroobants is not afraid to set big goals in his first season as coach.

“We want to finish top three,” he said.

“If that were to happen to come the end of the home and away season then we will go from there.”

On paper, it is clear Rochy are dreaming of a first senior premiership since 2008.

Stroobants’ name in the line-up is enough to strike fear into even the best defenders in the competition.

While at the other end, former Port Adelaide and St Kilda player Logan Austin will have the confidence to beat the premier goal-kickers on a weekly basis.

And that’s without mentioning two sets of brothers, Dillon and Sean Williams, and Lachie and Jordan Harper, who join from

LoganAustin

FAST FACTS

strong competitions across Victoria and NSW. While Chris Jansen, who boasts VFL experience with North Melbourne, could also be available for the Tigers.

“We’re really happy with the guys we’ve been able to bring in over the past 18 months,” Stroobants said.

“I think they complement the younger guys we already had on our list. It’s imperative the less experienced guys are able to take a step forward because it will go a long way to helping us finishing in the top three.

“They’ve already shown good signs on the training track and I’m expecting that to continue.”

For all the positive news around Rochester, the Tigers will need to find a way to fill the hole left by Doug Wren.

“There’s no doubting he is a massive loss,” Stroobants said.

“But I’m confident our guys will be able to step up to the plate because there is a massive opportunity there for someone.

“Jackson McEwen has also left us, but both those departures were

understandable, and we wish the boys all the best.”

The Tigers are set to face some stern opposition in the lead-up to round one, as they prepare to play several Bendigo league sides in the coming weeks.

“Those games will give us a good indication of where we are at,” Stroobants said.

“We will try a few things which we’ve been working on and from there we can improve those.”

– BRAYDEN MAY

JOINED LEAGUE: 1913 TO 1914, 1973- NICKNAME: TIGERS GROUND: MOON OVAL COACH: STEVEN STROOBANTS PRESIDENT: JEFF BRIGHT PREMIERSHIPS: 1914, 1992, 1999, 2008 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: M. KEENAN (1988), P. MORGAN (1994), G. CAMPBELL (2011), A. WATSON (2015) 2019 FINISH: FOURTH (11–9) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: NATHAN MARRONE 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: LIAM BARTELS (38)

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20 Football and Netball 2021

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

“

ROCHESTER’S SEASON FIXTURE

They’ve already shown good signs on the training track and I’m expecting that to continue.

“

– STEVEN STROOBANTS, COACH

NathanMarrone

StevenStroobants

SeanWilliams

PLAYER CHANGES

ROUND 1

KYABRAM (H)

APRIL 3

ROUND 2

SEYMOUR (A)

APRIL 10

ROUND 3

EUROA (A)

APRIL 17

ROUND 4

ECHUCA (H)

APRIL 24

ROUND 5

TATURA (A)

MAY 1

ROUND 6

MOOROOPNA (H)

MAY 8

ROUND 7

SHEPPARTON UNITED (H)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

SHEPPARTON SWANS (A)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

MANSFIELD (H)

JUNE 5

ROUND 10

BENALLA (A)

JUNE 12

ROUND 11

SHEPPARTON (H)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

TATURA (H)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

MOOROOPNA (A)

JULY 3

ROUND 14

ECHUCA (A)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

SEYMOUR (H)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

MANSFIELD (A)

JULY 31

ROUND 17

KYABRAM (A)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

EUROA (H)

AUGUST 21

GAME CHANGER

IN: Chris Jansen (Port Melbourne), Jordan Harper (Canberra), Lachie Harper (Collegians), Dillon Williams (Eaglehawk), Logan Austin (AFL), Joe Atley (AFL), Sean Williams, Bailey Wileman (Wagga Tigers).

OUT: James Flaherty (Kangaroo Flat), Rhys Free (Cohuna Kangas), James McPhee, Harrison McPhee (Lockington-Bamawm), Brodie Montague (Sandhurst), Leigh Millard (Murrabit)

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GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

SEYMOUR LIONS

Sam Durham

FAST FACTS Russell Mawson

John Stringer

After 16 months on the sidelines, Seymour will back in a young cohort and strong culture to push the club forward this year.

With Ben Davey given full reins to lead the Lions into attack, with last year’s co-coach Ben Clifton moving into the senior assistant position, there has been little change at the top of the food chain.

Perhaps the Lions’ biggest challenge though will be adjusting to plenty of movement through their playing ranks.

Jason Cole’s continued absence with an elbow injury is further compounded by Zac Keogh’s defection to reigning premier Kyabram.

Add to those the loss of fullforward Jake Anderson to Avenel, and there are some huge holes to fill at Kings Park.

But that doesn’t mean the Lions are lacking the talent at Kings Park to make another charge for finals action.

Fellow midfielders Tom Freeman and Dylan Scopel will be tapped for more responsibility, while a fully fit Clifton should do wonders for the Lions’ chances of on-field success.

Meanwhile, the recruitment of midfielder Jack O’Sullivan is another boost for the program.

Formerly on Collingwood’s VFL list, O’Sullivan comes out of the Calder Cannons under-18 program, and as a former Assumption College student, knows plenty of faces around the club.

“That’s the angle we’ve gone for, trying to recruit through fellow contacts, get some local players back and back in the players we’ve already got,” Davey said.

“The local talent we have here is strong, they’re a close group and just need to play some footy.”

It’s that strong pool of talent, particularly from its 2019 under-18 team, the Lions will lean on heavily to filter up into their senior program, with players such as Sam Durham, Dylan Cook and Hudson all expected to make the jump up to regular senior football.

“They’ve virtually had 18 months with no training and footy, but they’ve come back bigger, stronger and quicker,” Davey said.

“They just want to play footy — they’re jumping out of their skins to play.”

Davey’s influence from the sideline, in what will be his first full season at the Lions, will also be of interest as the Lions look to tighten up a winning game plan.

“Yeah, we will have that set structure around the ground, but what I really want to encourage is for the boys to just play,” he said.

“Once the ball is in play, play with freedom and as fast and quick as you can.

“Once there is a stoppage, it’s then we need to know where we need to be.”

With continued on-field success undoubtedly wanted from those around the Den this year, Davey said an additional focus would be on bringing the group closer together this year — and for years to come.

“We’ve seen a couple of the leaders decide to go out and set up dinners through our sponsors, and we’re regularly getting 40–50 guys coming to that,” Davey said.

“That’s the sort of culture within the club. It’s very tight.

“And if we can take that into the next couple years, get 50 games into these young guys, we’re going to have a strong club and culture that’s sustainable for the next 10 years.”

– MEG SAULTRY

JOINED LEAGUE: 1940; 1976 TO PRESENT NICKNAME: LIONS GROUND: KINGS PARK COACH: BEN DAVEY PRESIDENT: GERARD O’SULLIVAN PREMIERSHIPS: 1976, 1981, 1982, 1991, 2005, 2006, 2007 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: C. FROELICH (1940), G. LIDDELL (1978, J. SOLOMON (1989), S. SCHOTTNER (2004) 2019 FINISH: FIFTH (9–9–1) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JASON COLE 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: JAKE ANDERSON (29)

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22 Football and Netball 2021

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GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

SEYMOUR’S SEASON FIXTURE

“

ROUND 1

ECHUCA (A)

APRIL 3

ROUND 2

ROCHESTER (H)

APRIL 10

That’s the sort of culture within the club.

It’s very tight.

ROUND 3

BYE

APRIL 17

ROUND 4

EUROA (H)

APRIL 24

ROUND 5

KYABRAM (H)

MAY 1

ROUND 6

SHEPPARTON (A)

MAY 8

– BEN DAVEY, COACH

ROUND 7

BENALLA (A)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

MOOROOPNA (H)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

SHEPPARTON SWANS (H)

JUNE 5

ROUND 10

TATURA (A)

JUNE 12

ROUND 11

SHEPPARTON UNITED (A)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

MANSFIELD (H)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

SHEPPARTON (H)

JULY 3

ROUND 14

EUROA (A)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

ROCHESTER (A)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

(1) ECHUCA (H) (2) MANSFIELD (A)

JULY 31 AUGUST 7

ROUND 17

BENALLA (H)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

MOOROOPNA (A)

AUGUST 21

“

TomFreeman

KyleWinter-Irving

BenClifton

DylanScopel

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Nick Davey, Tom Davey (VAFA), Harley Taylor-Lloyd (Picola United), Jack O’Sullivan (Romsey), Justin McKenna (Lakes Entrance), Jay Eager (Broadford), Nick Dundon (AFL Loddon), Tim Dundon (Murrumbeena), Ben Cooney.

OUT: Zac Keogh (Kyabram), Tom Martin, Jordan Zuccula, Max Jones, Bailey Clarke, Dom Russo, Max Mclean, Jake Anderson (Avenel), Lachlan Harrop (Adelaide), James Wooster (RDFL), Michael Bradbury (Golden Rivers), Chris Jackson (NFFL), Alex Johnson (WRFL), Mitch McLean (Heathcote District), Matt Martin (Nagambie), Tyler Clarke, Rhys Clarke (EDFL), Bryce Scoullar (MFL).

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GAME CHANGER

KYLE WINTER-IRVING: After spending time in the Top End off the back of the 2019 season, Winter-Irving’s experience in the NTFL should prove to be a big advantage for Seymour.

A key forward at the Den, Winter-Irving’s move into the ruck at Nightcliff will give the Lions greater versatility around the ground, while Winter-Irving will know what it takes to win it all after claiming a flag with Tigers — no doubt invaluable for the young Lions coming through.

SEASON PREDICTION

6TH — 10TH: With a vastly different looking group to its 2019 finals team, key outs, loss of depth, and the promotion of youth could unfortunately be Seymour’s downfall to returning to September action this year. There is no doubt the Lions should be able to compete with the best in the competition, but the question will be can they do it consistently enough to bank enough wins to sneak into finals.

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Football and Netball 2021 23

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

SHEPPARTON BEARS The next crop of senior players are ready to burst through and put their hand up at Shepparton this year.

A quick glance at the list of players that will be running around Deakin Reserve in the afternoon should have Bears supporters excited for the upcoming Goulburn Valley League season.

Despite the fact a truckload of premiership players from 2018 are now at other clubs, it has opened the door for the stars of tomorrow to push their case.

Rising stars such as Orien Kerr, Jayden Gagliardi, Jayden Dhosi, Achoung Agog, Jed Warrin, Ryley Yenco and Matt Pellegrino will don the maroon and gold.

Bears co-coach Sam Ahmet spoke glowingly of the club’s host of talented youth.

“Pre-season has been going smoothly, all the young boys have been terrific over summer,” Ahmet said.

“You can see how hungry they are. They’ve been at each training session. It could have gone either way after the year off, but we have found that they are keen to get out there.

MattShannon

FAST FACTS

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“I reckon they have all been very product Lachie Sykes will make a good. They’ve all impressed and we presence up forward. are really happy with them.”

Shannon returns to Deakin The departure of premiership Reserve after spending a season players Harry Boyd, Xavier at Tatura and Balwyn, where he Stevenson, Rhys O’Sullivan also spent time on Box Hill Hawks’ and Liam Duguid will be a solid VFL list. hit to Shepparton’s chances of “There is a really good contending this season. atmosphere at the club. Everyone Those players follow the is ready to get out there and they omissions prior to last year’s haven’t missed a beat,” Ahmet said. cancelled season, when Joel Brett, “All the young kids look up to Ash Holland, Matt Ryan and David those senior players like Nick, Stretton waved goodbye.

Rowan and Mitch. Even Matty Ahmet, who enjoyed a lengthy Shannon, who isn’t that old himself, playing career at the Bears, said he is really looking forward to teaching and fellow co-coach Ramadan Yze and helping the younger guys out.” wanted to help the next generation – AYDIN PAYNE become senior regulars.

“What we want to do is keep growing these young guys,” he said.

“Our goal is to make sure that they become super players in GVL footy.”

And helping those juniors earn their mark this year will be experienced campaigners Nick Allan, Mitch Brett and Rowan Hiscock along with gun talents Anthony Andronaco and Tom Boyd.

Former Bear and star midfielder Matt Shannon has returned, while former Murray Bushrangers

JOINED LEAGUE: 1894 NICKNAME: BEARS GROUND: DEAKIN RESERVE COACH: SAM AHMET AND RAMADAN YZE PRESIDENT: MARK WASHINGTON PREMIERSHIPS: 1899, 1903, 1906, 1908, 1909, 1911, 1912, 1913, 1920, 1925, 1929, 1934, 1952, 1957, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1972, 1973, 1978, 1993, 1994, 2000, 2018 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: E. JAMES (1935–37), J. DALGLEISH (1960), D. CODE (1980–81), G. REESE (1982 JOINT), S. ASH (2000, 2003 JOINT), M. BYERS (2005), N. ROKAHR (2018 JOINT) 2019 FINISH: THIRD (13–8) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: ANTHONY ANDRONACO 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: ANTHONY ANDRONACO (45)

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24 Football and Netball 2021

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

“

Our goal is to make sure that they become super players in GVL footy.

ROUND 1

SHEPPARTON UNITED (H)

APRIL 2

ROUND 2

MOOROOPNA (A)

APRIL 10

ROUND 3

BENALLA (H)

APRIL 17

ROUND 4

KYABRAM (A)

APRIL 24

– SAM AHMET AND RAMADAN YZE, CO-COACHES

ROUND 5

MANSFIELD (A)

MAY 1

ROUND 6

SEYMOUR (H)

MAY 8

ROUND 7

TATURA (H)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

ECHUCA (A)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

EUROA (A)

JUNE 5

ROUND 10

SHEPPARTON SWANS (H)

JUNE 12

ROUND 11

ROCHESTER (A)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

MOOROOPNA (H)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

SEYMOUR (A)

JULY 13

ROUND 14

SHEPPARTON UNITED (A)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

KYABRAM (H)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

EUROA (H)

AUGUST 7

ROUND 17

SHEPPARTON SWANS (A)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

ECHUCA (H)

AUGUST 21

PLAYER CHANGES

“

OrienKerr

RowanHiscock

BEARS’ SEASON FIXTURE

TomBoyd

GAME CHANGER

INS: Matt Shannon (Box Hill), Lachlan Sykes (Point Cook), Nathan Drummond (Old Melburnians) OUTS: Harry Boyd (Norwood), Matt Brett (Darley), Xavier Stevenson (Tungamah), Rhys O’Sullivan (Dookie United) Jonty Wardle (Katandra), Tyler Bell (Glenroy), Liam Duguid, Joel Brett (Golden Square), Ash Holland (Waaia), Matt Ryan (Strathmerton), David Stretton (Ocean Grove), Cam Wild (Whittlesea), Tom Thorsen (Barooga)

MATT SHANNON: One of the best movers in the competition when he is up and flying. Shannon can rack up possessions with ease and can also float forward and hit the scoreboard. The silky on-baller has spent time on VFL lists and not only will he add sublime talent to the Bears, he will pass on plenty of knowledge to his younger teammates.

FINISHING RANGE

7TH — 10TH: The exodus of players from the 2019 squad that reached the preliminary final is definitely one glaring query on whether the Bears can factor in finals action this year. However, Shepparton does have a plethora of talented youngsters coming through the ranks that, not only creates excitement for fans, but makes the future beyond this year bright.

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Football and Netball 2021 25

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

SHEPPARTON SWANS After being glued to the bottom of the Goulburn Valley League ladder, the return of football will also see the return of the mighty Shepparton Swans.

The Swans generated plenty of buzz ahead of last year’s cancelled season and the signs were there that they would finally fly up the ladder.

Fans of the boys in red and white can rest assured that the Swans will not look to spend another season on the bottom — after they assumed 12th spot from 2017 to 2019.

“I know we are coming from a fair way back, but it can all change pretty quickly,” Swans coach Paul Hawke said.

“I thought we improved from the end of the 2019 season and before last year’s cancelled season.

Hopefully we can take a big step forward this year.

“I don’t like to sit down and say this is how many games we need to win, if you commit yourself and prepare at 100 per cent then the wins will come.”

Hawke highlighted the concern he had less than six months ago

JessieFinnen

FAST FACTS

SHEPPARTON

JOINED LEAGUE: 1946 (AS LEMNOS FOOTBALL CLUB) NICKNAME: SWANS GROUND: PRINCESS PARK COACH: PAUL HAWKE PRESIDENT: JARROD SUTHERLAND PREMIERSHIPS: 1959, 1960, 1970 2014 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: B. TYQUIN (1949), R. ORRMAN (1951, 1954, 1959), N. SMITH (1975), M. LAMBOURN (1996), ALL AS LEMNOS; J. SUTHERLAND (2002), B. DURBRIDGE (2009) AS SHEPPARTON SWANS 2019 FINISH: 12TH (3–14–1) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: TOM PREECE 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: ROB STAFF (21)

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26 Football and Netball 2021

when the Swans began casting their Tom Campbell — who bring strong eye to a potential 2021 campaign. leadership qualities.

“Back in October, I was worried Former Tatura speedster Charlie about our young boys and how Hill has joined Princess Park, while they would react to having a year Finley’s Luke Moore and forward off,” he said.

Michael Cooke have jumped on “It was that concern that they board. would rather not play and have Reigning best-and-fairest winner time off on the weekends.

Tom Preece has waved goodbye “But it was actually the other way and is trying his hand at metro around. All the young guys were football, while Jack Threlfall has quick to put their hand up and say departed for Dookie United. they wanted to play.

“We reckon we have a good blend “They really missed that club feel.” of youth and senior players and it’s Young rising guns Zac Alderton, really exciting for the club going Luke Whyte, Ty Collison, Lachlan forward,” Hawke said.

McMahon, Rylen Damianopolous – AYDIN PAYNE and Nathan Rachele have all stuck around and look set to take the next step this year.

And Rachele’s younger brother Josh, along with Will Dwyer and Ethan Warburton, could feature between their representative commitments.

On the player movement front, the Swans have retained the incoming players that committed ahead of the 2020 season.

Star midfielder BJ Squires is back, along with former teammates Jessie Finnen and

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

“

I know we are coming from a fair way back, but it can all change pretty quickly

“

TomCampbell

– PAUL HAWKE, COACH

NathanRachele

GAME CHANGER

BJ SQUIRE: Squire will again become one of the premier on-ballers in the competition with his return to Princess Park after he spent two years at Congupna. The classy midfielder’s pace and skills are electric and he will add another element to the Swans’ on-ball brigade. He also strolls in with fivestraight best-and-fairest awards after he claimed Congupna’s past two, on top of his three-peat at Swans from 2015–17.

BJSquire

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: BJ Squire (Congupna), Jessie Finnen (Doncaster), Tom Campbell, Michael Cook (Calivil), Luke Moore (Finley), Charlie Hill (Wangaratta Rovers), Ryan Pfeiffer, Angus Harrington OUT: Tom Preece (East Malvern), James Bennett (Tatura), Jack Threlfall (Dookie United), Josh Wild (Murchison-Toolamba), Darby Walsh, Rob Staff

SWANS’ SEASON FIXTURE ROUND 1

BENALLA (H)

APRIL 3

ROUND 2

KYABRAM (A)

APRIL 10

ROUND 3

SHEPPARTON UNITED (H)

APRIL 17

ROUND 4

TATURA (H)

APRIL 24

ROUND 5

MOOROOPNA (A)

MAY 1

ROUND 6

EUROA (A)

MAY 8

ROUND 7

ECHUCA (H)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

ROCHESTER (H)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

SEYMOUR (A)

JUNE 5

ROUND 10

SHEPPARTON (A)

JUNE 12

ROUND 11

MANSFIELD (H)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

KYABRAM (H)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

SHEPPARTON UNITED (A)

JULY 10

ROUND 14

MOOROOPNA (H)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

ECHUCA (A)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

BENALLA (A)

AUGUST 7

ROUND 17

SHEPPARTON (H)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

MANSFIELD (A)

AUGUST 21

FINISHING RANGE

6TH — 9TH: The Swans have talented youth coming through and the youngsters showcased in 2019 that they had what it takes.

Many people fail to remember how competitive the young Swans were that season, with their three wins and one draw close to being five or six wins. The additions of Squire, Finnen and Campbell will complement a squad that features Quade Johnstone, Mitch Bell and talented youth.

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Football and Netball 2021 27

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

SHEPPARTON UNITED DEMONS If Deakin Reserve is the stage, Shepparton United has assembled an A-list cast to bring blockbuster football to the Goulburn Valley League this year.

Scrolling down the salivating list of ins, it’s hard to argue the club isn’t destined for a climb up the ladder from its 10th placing in 2019.

Thrilled to oversee an electric blend of youth and experience after a hefty football drought, coach Rob Osborne is strapped in and ready for a roller-coaster 2021.

“The year off was tough, but if anything, it has made our guys more hungry,” Osborne said.

“It’s pretty hard having two pre-seasons in a row, however, it has given us more time to work on our style of play.

“I believe we are ahead of where we were this time last year.”

AFL 157-gamer Brock McLean headlines the additions, while United has also brought in sparks such as midfield gun Doug Wren from Rochester and Waaia wizard Mitch Cleeland.

“Brock is 100 per cent committed for this year. Like everyone else he is extremely keen

to play footy again, and can’t wait to work with our young group,” Osborne said.

“Doug is going to be absolutely fantastic through the midfield and his leadership is of high quality, he’s a real workhorse.

“I’ve also been impressed at Mitch Cleeland from Waaia in how he has adapted so far, having done two pre-seasons in a row. He is a very mature and composed player that will be a key for us.”

Returning home are the likes of Elliott Cavallaro and Ed Adams, who have starred in their respective leagues since leaving the nest.

Meanwhile a nucleus of VFL-listed Demons, including Angus Hicks, Zane Barzen, Jesse Cuccinotta and Liam Fiore will cause havoc when available — a prospect Osborne was revelling in.

“We’ve got some extremely exciting young talent amongst the group,” he said.

“Especially with our VFL-listed boys, whenever we get the opportunity to have them playing here it will be a huge addition for us.”

But perhaps the most eyebrow-raising inclusion is Gold Coast Suns academy product

Fitzroy Greenwool — a player Osborne is sure will live up to the hype.

“Fitzroy has been involved at the highest level and is a player full of excitement, he has brought a lot of life to training,” he said.

“He’ll add a lot of forward pressure and will be exceptional in front of goals. We’re expecting a few miraculous moments out of him this season.”

Elated to chaperon the action from the sidelines, Osborne was keen to see how many backsides his rip-roaring United roster will get off seats during 2021.

“We want to be more competitive, we want to play an exciting brand of football and hope to win games,” he said.

“At the moment, however, win, lose or draw we are all just excited to be back playing footy.”

– LIAM NASH

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FAST FACTS

JOINED LEAGUE: 1950 NICKNAME: DEMONS GROUND: DEAKIN RESERVE COACH: ROB OSBORNE PRESIDENT: MATT CHILCOTT PREMIERSHIPS: 1954, 1955, 1956, 1962, 1967, 1974, 1980, 1987, 1988, 1989, 2010, 2011 2019 FINISH: 10TH 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: SHANE NEAVES 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKERS: JACK NORMAN AND TIM LOOBY (20)

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GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

“

The year off was tough, but if anything, it has made our guys more hungry

“

– ROB OSBORNE, COACH LiamFiore

DougWren

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GAME CHANGER

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Brock McLean (Doncaster East), Mitch Cleeland (Waaia), Fitzroy Greenwool (Gold Coast Suns), Kayden Napier (Mooroopna), Doug Wren (Rochester), Elliot Cavallaro (Altona), Ed Adams (Grovedale), Troy Damon (Rushworth), Dylan Baker (Murchison-Toolamba), Tyler Pedretti.

OUT: Tim Looby (Strathmerton), Ben Bingham, Matt Di Bella (Nathalia), Beau Caia (Tallygaroopna), Cam Calder (Katandra), Fraser Hicks, Ben Pedretti, Harrison Osborn (Congupna)

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SEASON PREDICTION

5TH — 9TH: The loss of Ben Pedretti is a significant one, but managing to lock in stars such as Brock McLean, Doug Wren and more sends a statement to the competition — United isn’t there to make up numbers. Fizzing to go after a football-less 2020, the Demons faithful can expect a scintillating style of play out of Deakin this year.

Proudly continuing our support and sponsorship with our local Football/Netball clubs.

Best of luck for the 2021 Season!

BUDGET TROPHIES Football and Netball 2021 29

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

TATURA BULLDOGS Finals football is what every team hopes to achieve and Tatura is no exception heading into 2021.

The Bulldogs have a similar squad to what they had planned for the 2020 season and are hungry to play after a year off.

“The group has been really good,” coach Paul Kirby said.

“I couldn’t imagine when I was playing to sit out a year.

“I don’t have to ask them to do extras, they just motivate each other and I hope that continues when the games start.

“It’s not easy to sit out 12 months.

“It’s hard work doing pre-season, no-one likes doing it, so everyone will be happy to kick off with some normality, but as we know anything can happen.”

While no-one wants to do the hard yards and not play, as Kirby said, the year off did allow the 2019 injury-riddled outfit to get back to full fitness.

“Twelve months has gone by, so everyone’s fit and raring to go.”

While he will get back some of his stars, Kirby was excited to see the growth of his younger players.

“I’m super excited by some of these kids — Sean McAllister, Morrie Serra, George Brisbane, Matt Rennie and Michael Archer,” he said.

“These young kids are improving every day.”

Mixed in with the upcoming youth are the experienced heads, who Kirby said were ones to watch.

“Our two main leaders Brad Ryan, who was training with Richmond (VFL) this time last year, and Nick Fothergill, who was signed up with Williamstown, are a massive help to me,” Kirby said.

“Billy Cooper — I think he’s going to be very good as will Mitch Elliott.”

The squad will be bolstered by former Shepparton Swan James

Bennett and Chaz Sargeant, who last played in the Northern Football Netball League.

However, they won’t have the services of Kirk Mahon and James Boyer, the latter heading to the Northern Territory Football League.

With these changes in mind, Kirby is hoping to see his team improve on its sixth-placed finish from 2019, which yielded 11 wins, one draw and seven losses.

– RODNEY WOODS

BradRyan

FAST FACTS

JOINED LEAGUE: 1894 NICKNAME: BULLDOGS GROUND: TATURA PARK COACH: PAUL KIRBY PRESIDENT: JOHN MAHER PREMIERSHIPS: 1898, 1900, 1901, 1902, 1904, 1905, 1952, 1953, 1995, 1998, 2003 AND 2012 MORRISON MEDALLISTS: W. PRITCHARD (1947), J. GREENWOOD (1969 AND 1970), N. SMITH (1974), T. ESLER (1995 JOINT WINNER) 2019 FINISH: SIXTH (11–1–7) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JAMASON DANIELS 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: NICK FOTHERGILL (35)

Even if your team doesn’t always play the best, our team always does.

Dawes & Vary Riordan are committed to their community and continue to offer quality legal services throughout the Goulburn Valley.

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30 Football and Netball 2021

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Phone 5824 0300 Shepparton | Kyabram | Tatura | Echuca | Rochester | Nathalia | Cobram

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

“

I’m super excited by some of these kids — Sean McAllister, Morrie Serra, George Brisbane, Matt Rennie and Michael Archer

TATURA’S SEASON FIXTURE

“

– PAUL KIRBY, COACH BillyCooper

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Tom Sullivan, Chris Ryan (Heidelberg), Bailey Bell (Nathalia), Michael Archer (Dunnstown), Tom Durward (Undera), Rob Kirby (Sandhurst), James Bennett (Shepparton Swans) and Chaz Sergeant OUT: Jamason Daniels, Charlie Hill (Wangaratta Rovers), Matt Shannon (Balwyn), James Sullivan (Strathmore), Jason Tutt (AFL Canberra), Jayden Thewma (Nathalia)

GAME CHANGER

NickFothergill

BRAD RYAN: If the AFL’s reigning premier had their eye on him, he must be doing something right. Set to train with the Tigers’ VFL side in 2020, the defender, who has represented the Goulburn Valley League, is sure to be one to watch.

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EUROA (A)

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ROUND 2

MANSFIELD (H)

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MOOROOPNA (A)

APRIL 17

ROUND 4

SHEPPARTON SWANS (A)

APRIL 24

ROUND 5

ROCHESTER (H)

MAY 1

ROUND 6

SHEPPARTON UNITED (H)

MAY 8

ROUND 7

SHEPPARTON (A)

MAY 15

ROUND 8

BENALLA (A)

MAY 29

ROUND 9

ECHUCA (H)

JUNE 5

ROUND 10

SEYMOUR (H)

JUNE 12

ROUND 11

KYABRAM (A)

JUNE 19

ROUND 12

ROCHESTER (A)

JUNE 26

ROUND 13

EUROA (H)

JULY 10

ROUND 14

MANSFIELD (A)

JULY 17

ROUND 15

BENALLA (H)

JULY 24

ROUND 16

MOOROOPNA (H)

JULY 31

ROUND 17

ECHUCA (A)

AUGUST 14

ROUND 18

KYABRAM (H)

AUGUST 21

SEASON PREDICTION

5TH — 8TH: Tatura finished sixth last season and has lost 2019’s best-and-fairest winner Jamason Daniels and other contributors in Matt Shannon and Jason Tutt, but should have greater access to Brad Ryan (training with Richmond’s VFL side) and Nick Fothergill (Williamstown) than they would have if 2020 went ahead. Whether these two leaders will be enough to see the improvement coach Paul Kirby is after will remain to be seen and hence why a similar finish to 2019 could also be on the cards.

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Football and Netball 2021 31

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE PAST PREMIERS 2019: Seymour 2018: Echuca 2017: Kyabram 2016: Kyabram 2015: Seymour 2014: Shepparton United 2013: Shepparton Swans 2012: Kyabram 2011: Kyabram 2010: Shepparton United

WELLMAN FAMILY MEDALISTS

9 1 0 2

R E I M E R P

Seymour

READY FOR ACTION By the time round one arrives it will have been more than 18 months since Seymour stood atop the Goulburn Valley League netball dais.

Since then the region’s best netballers have been itching for the chance to play again — and begin their quest to take down the Lions and win a premiership of their own.

Despite losing Elle McDonald to the Super Netball ranks as well as star defender Meg Grbac, Seymour will again be among the top teams this season.

There will be plenty of outfits hunting them down though.

Chief among them will again be Shepparton United, with Tania Orchard steering the Demons once more.

Mooroopna will look to take another step up the rungs of the ladder by bringing Bree Hanslow into its ranks, while watch out for the development a number of young stars making their way onto VNL lists.

Euroa could be the dark horse of the campaign, looking to pull off a Chautauqua-esque raid on the flag from last position.

Ellie Warnock will take the reins and has already assembled a new-look A-grade squad to attempt the feat.

Shepparton Swans fans will be delighted by the inclusion of Erin Hopkins and Klarindah Hudson under coach Jana Bruinier, but Annie Cobbledick will miss through injury once more.

Echuca and Shepparton cannot be counted out for a run at the title, especially with Steph Vick and Tracey Brereton at their respective helms, while the next group of chasers all have plenty to prove.

Kyabram, Tatura, Benalla and Rochester will be pushing to make an impact early in the season, with Mansfield still looking for a mentor to guide its young squad at the time of writing.

– TYLER MAHER

2019: Jessie Barnes (Shepparton United) 2018: Emma Ryan (Tatura) 2017: Steph Vick (Kyabram) 2016: Steph Vick (Kyabram) 2015: Elle McDonald (Seymour) 2014: Jacinta Todd (Shepparton) 2013: Jade Heinrich (Mansfield) 2012: Ash Mangan (Kyabram) 2011: Kathryn Hard (Seymour) 2010: Ash Mangan (Kyabram)

LADDER PREDICTIONS

JessieBarnes

1: Shepparton United 2: Mooroopna 3: Euroa 4: Echuca 5: Shepparton Swans 6: Seymour 7: Shepparton 8: Benalla 9: Kyabram 10: Rochester 11: Tatura 12: Mansfield

THE LEADING TEAM GOOD PEOPLE | GREAT RESULTS

You’ll find us here: | 5831 1800 | www.gagliardiscott.com.au We wish all the Football & Netball players best of luck for their 2021 season 32 Football and Netball 2021

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

BENALLA

Under the difficult circumstances of the past year, Benalla is coming out of the fire already a little battle worn.

With a core group of players and support staff working hard to get all teams onto the court, Saints netball co-ordinator Meg Morrison said the aim this year was to be as competitive as possible.

And perhaps the biggest boost to that ambition is the re-signing of Bridget Hill, who finished equal seventh in the 2019 Goulburn Valley League bestand-fairest count after a move from defence into attack.

Add in defender Rhiannon Dolahenty, who will play her first season in the red, white and black after initially signing with the club last year, and you have the spine of a budding team.

“We didn’t get to see what Rhi could do last year, so she’s definitely one to look out for,” Morrison said.

“And Bridget as well, she’s definitely got the drive there, and having those two experienced heads at either end will be really good for us.”

Others expected to make the jump up to the top senior sides are former junior stars Isabella Riley and Georgie Uebergang.

With senior success still a major focus, after the loss of a full year of netball, Morrison said the club’s biggest mission this year was to solidify its junior ranks.

Bringing back club stalwart Robyn Smith to run its pre-season training, the Saints have gone back to basics to smoothen players’ transition back to competitive netball.

“Robyn’s helping get the basics back into the girls.

She breaks it right down, even to slo-mo strides, to show the girls,” Morrison said.

“A lot of these young girls have missed out on that and it’s even getting it back into the older girls with the year off.

“She’s been really good for our development.”

COACH: TBC 2019 FINISH: 10TH (5–13)

ECHUCA

In 2020, Echuca had high hopes for its netball side.

Coming off a preliminary final loss, there was belief it could push for another premiership.

A year removed, and with some of the senior players moving on and an influx of juniors and new talent, coach Stephanie Vick says that belief is still alive.

“We naturally came back from the season off with a different outlook,” Vick said.

“There is an excitement about just getting back on the court and playing, and I think that’s going to be the case for all the clubs. But that won’t last.

Once you are back into the swing of things it’s about competing again.

“We have a lot of talent in our team, there is a strong belief around the group in how we go about

things and the work we have done, so we still think we are capable of winning a premiership.

“It becomes a case of doing our best work, we need to play our best netball and have everything go right if we are to get there.”

And the preparation didn’t just start in pre-season.

“We were very close during the time off,” she said.

“We were constantly communicating as a group, keeping each other posted on our lives and how we were going, and that kept the group really close while we couldn’t train together or play together.

“That had an impact on us when we came back, it helped us to build quickly on the court, and hopefully we see that have a long term impact.”

BridgetHill

COACH: STEPH VICK 2019 FINISH: THIRD (16–5)

EUROA

To call Euroa’s A-grade side “new-look” would be putting things mildly.

Along with new coach Ellie Warnock, the Magpies welcome former Victorian Netball League talent Kellie Davidson and friend Karly Wappett, while former Ovens and Murray league players Bree Poole and Amelia Unthank remain committed.

When you add in existing emerging stars Hannah Broughton and Eliza Hoare, a jump from the bottom of the ladder to somewhere near the top appears on the cards.

“Kellie is an electric mid-courter and defender.

She brings a wealth of experience to the side and will be looking to have an instant impact on the court,” Warnock said.

“Karly is a clever utility who will most likely find a home in our goal circle, but also has the quality to swing into defence when required.

COACH: ELLIE WARNOCK 2019 FINISH: 12TH (1–17)

“Bree Poole is going to be pivotal in attack as a shooter who arrives from Albury Tigers, and Amelia Unthank is a versatile mid-courter from North Albury.”

With talent across the court, combined with versatility, experience and leadership, the Magpies loom as the stock ready to go to the moon in a short timeframe.

“We want to build on the existing core players by adding our new recruits to the squad, focusing on developing on-court chemistry and understanding,” Warnock said.

“We feel significant improvement in the win-loss column is certainly attainable, but our success this season will be measured by the culture we create on and off the court which we hope can build the platform to launch, not only in 2021 but in the years to come.”

HannahBroughton

Football and Netball 2021 33

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

MollyCunningham

KYABRAM

Kyabram’s netballers are never down for long.

After a down season in 2018 and an injury-ravaged year in 2019, the group is back as fresh as ever and looking to return to the finals of Goulburn Valley League.

Coach Sara Kent said the year off, while a challenge for the personnel of her team, had allowed the opportunity to fully recover and make another run at the flag.

“It was tough being away,” Kent said.

“We are a really close group of players, so being away from each other was tough for the year, but now everyone has come back feeling fresh and ready to go.”

BreeHanslow

Being a regular premiership contender in the past, the Bombers are now looking at their desire to return to that status.

“We obviously will set out to play finals again this year,” she said.

“We have that discussion as a team as to what our goals are, not just in A-grade, but across the entire club, and that’s extending beyond the GVL with our team of younger players in a different competition.

“But we will set ourselves a high goal and aim to play our best netball throughout the season and, hopefully, it takes us back to the finals.”

COACH: SARA KENT 2019 FINISH: NINTH (5–2–11)

MANSFIELD Mansfield had every reason to be excited about the 2020 season before it was cancelled.

And 2021 is no different.

That’s despite all the adversities the club has been faced with since it last stepped out on the court.

Emily Hutchins, who coached the club between 2017 and 2019, has stepped down from her role as A-grade coach.

Meanwhile, fellow Melbourne trio, Samantha Nunan, Madeline Smith and Jess Walker have all returned to the big smoke.

It means the Eagles are going to be relying heavily on their homegrown talent which means they are more than capable of springing a surprise or two.

In the lead up to the last campaign, Dempsey Parsons — who had been named as Hutchins’ replacement — suggested a large portion of junior players would make up the senior grades.

And you would expect a familiar storyline to follow in 2021.

COACH: TBC 2019 FINISH: SEVENTH (6–1–11)

34 Football and Netball 2021

ShaniClark

In their first three games, Mansfield will face Mooroopna, Tatura and Benalla, sides who all finished around the Eagles in 2019.

With those fixtures ahead of them — including a bye in round three — Mansfield should know where they sit in the Goulburn Valley League pecking order after the first month of action.

At the time of writing, Mansfield had not officially named its A-grade coach.

But it had managed to secure the services of experienced mentor Kendyl Hopley as senior netball training coach.

Hopley has a long association with Bendigo Football Netball League having coached Golden Square A-grade and A-reserve teams to four premierships.

She was an independent assessor at the club’s netball trials and has overseen some practice matches.

Hopley has worked closely with all already named coaches and assistants.

MOOROOPNA Mooroopna is on the march in the Goulburn Valley League netball ranks.

The Cats have been amassing a horde of talented juniors over the past few seasons — and with a couple of additions at the top level are ready to make the jump from competitors to challengers.

“We’re looking to have an exciting season, there’s lots of players progressing nicely at the club,” coach Di Hanslow said.

“It’s exciting to have Maddie Wong back this year, she’s one of the most talented defenders in the league and her and Ash Lancaster always cause plenty of grief for the opposition.

“We’re expecting Ash back midway through the season after having a child.

“We’ve also bolstered our mid-court with Bree Hanslow coming across, she brings lots of experience for the likes of Georgia Gattuso, Shelby Britten and Paigan Impey to learn from.”

As well as being strong on the A-grade front, the Cats have focused on having depth across

COACH: DI HANSLOW 2019 FINISH: SIXTH (11–1–6)

the grades to help further their pursuit for success.

With a trio of young stars splitting their time between Mooroopna Recreation Reserve and the Victorian Netball League it also gives Hanslow’s charges plenty of room to grow even more this season.

“Dayna Williams is one of the best juniors in the league, she’s signed with Melbourne Uni.,” Hanslow said.

“It’s exciting to see how far she can take her netball this season. Taylah Lloyd (North East Blaze) and Jazmin Clark (Geelong Cougars) have also earned VNL squad spots.

“There’s young talent pushing to come through the grades, which is exciting for the club.

“We’re still going to be a young side, but everyone is working really hard.

“There’s lots of positive feeling around the club.

We’re a club that’s in the process of building, and hopefully before too long we can be held in the same regard as the top teams.”

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

SHEPPARTON BEARS After a year off, excitement levels are at an all-time high at Shepparton according to A-grade coach Tracey Brereton.

The Bears mentor, heading into her 14th campaign in charge, highlighted the positive buzz ahead of the 2021 Goulburn Valley league season.

“The atmosphere at training has been really good. We have got a really good group of girls,” Brereton said.

“There is a lot of excitement and the vibe is really positive.

“Everyone is tracking along nicely and we are excited to get out there come round one under lights against United.”

One player that can get Shepparton supporters up off their seat is former Echuca United star Tanner Edwards.

The 2019 premiership player and club best-and-fairest winner has crossed leagues and joined the Deakin Reserve outfit.

“We’ve been lucky enough to pick up Tanner Edwards,” Brereton said.

“She’s been a fantastic asset, she’s very team-orientated, and she’ll add plenty to the team.”

Edwards will help bolster the Bears’ core group of players from the 2019 squad.

Jacinta Todd, Ash Cann and Hannah Crawley are all going around again, while midcourter Laura Ryan has departed for Tatura.

And then the next crop of stars are bursting through the ranks.

Andriana Oliver, Erin Scott, Ella Sidebottom and Ellie Dowling are all expected to heavily feature this year.

“We have got heaps of juniors coming through. It’s a great chance for them to step up and play senior netball,” Brereton said.

“Ella, Ellie, Andy and Erin are very versatile and I can’t wait to see them develop.”

COACH: TRACEY BRERETON 2019 FINISH: FOURTH (13–7)

ROCHESTER

A year off may well have been a blessing in disguise for Rochester’s netball program.

If the 2020 season was not cancelled, Bridgette Holt and Morgan Dingwall would have missed the campaign due to serious knee injuries.

But with the return of netball on the horizon, the duo is now fit and firing as it aims to help Rochester end its Goulburn Valley League finals drought.

And A-grade coach Linda Rasmussen could not be happier.

“Both girls are going to make a massive difference for how competitive we can be,” she said.

“Playing finals netball is one of our goals and having Bridgette and Morgan available makes that much more realistic.

“They’ve been terrific throughout pre-season. I’m confident Bridgette will be right to go from the first game, but Morgan could be a couple of weeks behind her.

EllaSidebottom

“The other girls are really enjoying having them back out there as well.”

Backing up the duo will be the exciting under-17 netball team which is coming off the 2019 under-15 premiership.

Rasmussen said she was looking forward to giving those players senior opportunities.

“In a small town it’s important we continue to develop our junior players,” she said.

“Having players step up into the senior grades is going to make a massive difference for their careers.

“But at the same time, we need to be careful about how we do it because we don’t want to put a dent in their confidence.

“It’s also important they enjoy their final year of junior netball.”

COACH: LINDA RASMUSSEN 2019 FINISH: EIGHTH (6–11).

SEYMOUR

Seymour will defend its A-grade title in the most unusual of circumstances, with plenty changing at Kings Park in the 16 months since that fateful day in September, 2019.

With Ronni Hager stepping up to the plate as A-grade coach due to playing coach Elle McDonald’s departure to the Super Netball ranks, the Lions will also be without one of their most dynamic defenders in Meg Grbac.

But with two doors closing, others are expected to open for those rising up the ranks at the Den. “We were incredibly lucky to have had two of the best players in the competition in Elle and Meg, and they are going to be huge holes to fill,” Hager said.

“But it gives our young players the opportunity to step forward.

“A lot of these girls were coached under Elle, everyone trained together, so the bar was set high and they know what is expected of them.

“From a club perspective we are really blessed, we’ll be fairly competitive in all grades.”

COACH: RONNI HAGER 2019 FINISH: PREMIER (17–2–2)

MorganDingwall

Hager said she expected teenager Ruby Martin to be one such player to take the step up, with her work in goals potentially freeing up Jess Lallo for more midcourt minutes.

Meanwhile the year off has also rejuvenated veteran mid-courter Sarah Douglas and she will return for another year.

Ahead of round one, Hager said she expected the competition to throw up a “bit of jungle netball” early in the season as players adapt to the rigours of returning to the court.

“Our practice matches will be key to finding our game flow,” she said.

“Once we find that, we can move more into our structures and get that training flow going.

“It’ll just take everyone a while to get into the mix.”

JessLallo

Football and Netball 2021 35

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

ErinHopkins

JanaBruinier

SHEPPARTON SWANS Shepparton Swans are quietly building and bolstering their squad for the upcoming Goulburn Valley League A-grade season.

The Swans, who were ravaged by injuries in their 2019 campaign which ended in the elimination final, have welcomed a string of new and old faces to the club.

Once again, the Princess Park outfit will be led by playing coach Jana Bruinier — after the premiership mentor took over the helm ahead of the cancelled 2020 season.

But also back in the fray is Bruinier’s premiership teammate Erin Hopkins, along with attacking option Sophie Atkinson.

Tall defender Klarindah Hudson crosses from Rumbalara, while midcourt option Bessie Hammond is set to feature.

Unfortunately, gun talent Annie Cobbledick will be absent again after the versatile player re-injured her knee.

“We are opting for an A and B-grade squad this year. We have depth and we want to see both teams make finals,” Bruinier said.

“We have a couple of new faces which is always great. Erin has been away for five years and she will strengthen our defence along with Klarindah.

“And Bessie has been a great find, she’ll help out through the midcourt.

“We also have got some exciting juniors coming through.

“I’d like to see development in our young group, it’s great seeing the next generation come through.”

Bruinier highlighted that pre-season had been a nice reminder of how much everyone missed netball during the year off.

“Training has been going really well. Everyone has been working hard and it just feels great to have a netball back in your hand,” she said.

“We’ve worked on getting that fitness and skill level back up because after a year off playing, you are going to have a bit of rustiness.”

ElsieBoyer

GeorgiaWalpole

COACH: JANA BRUINIER 2019 FINISH: FIFTH (12–7)

SHEPPARTON UNITED TATURA Same animal, same ambitions.

That’s the warning shot Shepparton United’s brains trust Tania Orchard is sending out to the rest of the competition with all eyes at Deakin Reserve fixed firmly on another grand final berth.

“Top two again, I think the girls will be really pushing for that,” Orchard said.

“Nothing has changed, I feel if they put in the same amount of work then there shouldn’t be any reason why we shouldn’t achieve it.

“Obviously, it depends on how other clubs have gone, how they’ve recruited and how they’ve stepped up, but that is what we’ll be focusing and setting our sights on.”

Orchard noted prominent goaler Tamara Skinner had relocated to Nathalia, but was relishing Sarah Bohn’s return following a lengthy knee injury.

Gaining the services of Victorian Netball Leaguelisted Zoe Davies adds to the Demons’ frighteningly potent stocks, while blooding youth will also be a key component if the side is to touch the competition’s heights come September.

“We’re lucky enough to have Zoe back, which is fantastic; she will still be running around with the Falcons,” Orchard said.

“I’m excited about young Molly Kennedy too; she is really focused and keen to get her debut in the A-grade side.”

COACH: TANIA ORCHARD 2019 FINISH: RUNNER UP (17–1–4)

36 Football and Netball 2021

Improving the basics of the game will be key to Tatura’s chances of flying up the Goulburn Valley Netball League A-grade ladder.

Coach Georgia Ryan, who is also overseeing the other grades at the club, has one goal in mind for season 2021.

“Being the head coach from A-grade to under-15s, my goal is to see all grades make finals,” Ryan said.

“We’re trying to focus a lot more on our footwork and perfect the basics and hopefully that will set us up for a good year.”

Ryan said the squad was itching to play since balls had been introduced at training.

“I think it will be nice to be back out there and playing again,” she said.

“The girls are pretty excited after starting to handle the balls.

COACH: GEORGIA RYAN 2019 FINISH: 11TH (2–16)

“They are a good group off court and if we can match that on court, I think we will be in for a ripper season.”

One of the players to watch will be teenage sensation Elsie Boyer, who will be preparing for her third A-grade season, despite her age.

“Elsie Boyer, she’s only 16, but she’s always one to watch,” Ryan said.

“She’s hoping to gain a contract with the Altona Falcons.”

Boyer won’t be the only up-and-coming star to get a taste of A-grade action this season.

“I’ve got three training partners with A-grade coming up from the under-17s,” Ryan said.

“Mia Earl, Charlotte Gray and Tayla Albury-Mills, will be some of the youngsters to watch for us.”

EXPORTS

FAMILIAR FACES LIGHTING UP BIGGEST STAGE Only two new faces joined the ranks of football’s top tier over summer, with Cohuna’s Josh Treacy already making waves at Fremantle and Will Shaw being picked up from Deniliquin.

Treacy joins former Seymour veteran David Mundy and Moama’s Lachie Schultz in purple, while Shaw will form part of a youthful brigade at Greater Western Sydney Giants.

Lachie Ash will take on a crucial role in the Giants’ backline following the departure of Zac Williams after his trade to Carlton in the off-season, with the number four pick set to use his dash and pace to great effect for GWS. At the other end of the age scale, Sam Reid will go around again in the number 50 for the Giants.

Julia Crockett-Grills (Kyabram), Becky Webster (Benalla) and Millie Brown (Mooroopna) have donned the blue and white hoops of Geelong in the AFLW competition, while Tom Hawkins (Finley) and Esava Ratugolea (Mooroopna) will line up for the men’s side.

Angela Foley has been a key leader for Adelaide on and off the field in the AFLW, while Jordan Butts will be hoping to get more time on the track for the men’s side with the Crows undergoing a rebuild.

Grace Egan (Shepparton) is on the list for Carlton after being picked up from Richmond’s VFLW side, while Brodie Kemp (Echuca) and Caleb Marchbank (Benalla) will be hoping to overcome injuries — with Kemp still hunting an AFL debut.

Mansfield’s Bonnie Toogood has also lined up for the Western Bulldogs, while Alex Keath (Kialla) should hold a key post for the AFL side in 2021.

Mooroopna’s Laitham Vandermeer, Seymour’s Josh Schache and Euroa’s Will Hayes will be searching for senior games this season as the Dogs shoot for finals.

Echuca’s Ollie Wines has re-signed with a mega deal for Port Adelaide to keep him alongside Benalla’s Tom Rockliff, Deniliquin’s Todd Marshall and Katamatite’s Tom Clurey.

Tom Cole (Seymour) will be hoping his run of games from the back-end of last year continues, while Shaun Atley (Rochester) and Jy Simpkin (Mooroopna) will be part of North Melbourne’s rebuild.

Leitchville’s Marty Hore will miss most of Melbourne’s season, while Clayton Oliver (Mooroopna) will continue leading the Dees’ midfield, and Will Brodie (Shepparton), Jarrod Harbrow (Mooroopna) and Nick Holman (Kyabram) will be on the fringe of the Suns’ side.

Hawthorn has the leading number of exports on its list, with Daniel Howe (Rennie), James Cousins (Mansfield), Jarman Impey (Shepparton) and Harry Morrison (Benalla) set to play in 2021.

JoshTreacy

LachieAsh

MillieBrown

GV’S AFLW PLAYERS Angela Foley — Adelaide (Shepparton) Grace Egan — Carlton (Shepparton) Julia Crockett-Grills — Geelong (Kyabram) Becky Webster — Geelong (Benalla) Millie Brown — Geelong (Mooroopna) Bonnie Toogood — Western Bulldogs (Mansfield)

GV’S AFL PLAYERS Jordan Butts — Adelaide (Shepparton) Brodie Kemp — Carlton (Echuca) Caleb Marchbank — Carlton (Benalla) Jamie Elliott — Collingwood (Euroa) Steele Sidebottom — Collingwood (Tallygaroopna) David Mundy — Fremantle (Seymour) Lachie Schultz — Fremantle (Moama) Josh Treacy — Fremantle (Cohuna) Esava Ratugolea — Geelong (Cobram) Tom Hawkinis — Geelong (Finley) Will Brodie — Gold Coast (Shepparton) Jarrod Harbrow — Gold Coast (Mooroopna) Nick Holman — Gold Coast (Kyabram) Lachie Ash — GWS (Invergordon) Sam Reid — GWS (Echuca) Will Shaw — GWS (Deniliquin) Daniel Howe — Hawthorn (Rennie) James Cousins — Hawthorn (Mansfield) Jarman Impey — Hawthorn (Shepparton) Harry Morrison — Hawthorn (Benalla) Clayton Oliver — Melbourne (Mooroopna) Marty Hore — Melbourne (Leitchville) Shaun Atley — North Melbourne (Rochester) Jy Simpkin — North Melbourne (Mooroopna) Tom Rockliff — Port Adelaide (Benalla) Ollie Wines — Port Adelaide (Echuca) Tom Clurey — Port Adelaide (Katamatite) Todd Marshall — Port Adelaide (Deniliquin) Tom Cole — West Coast (Seymour) Alex Keath — Western Bulldogs (Kialla) Josh Schache — Western Bulldogs (Seymour) Laitham Vandermeer — Western Bulldogs (Mooroopna) Will Hayes — Western Bulldogs (Euroa)

Wendy Lovell MP

Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Region

GOOD LUCK TO ALL CLUBS FOR THE 2021 SEASON p: (03) 5821 6668 e: wendy.lovell@parliament.vic.gov.au /wendylovellMP Authorised by Wendy Lovell MP, 222 Wyndham Street Shepparton. Funded from Parliamentary Budget

Football and Netball 2021 37

UMPIRES

PICK UP A WHISTLE THIS SEASON Every weekend for the past 11 years — last year excluded — Tony Caia has popped along to some district footy.

And, as he tells it, he gets the best seat in the house each and every week.

Caia is a central umpire for Goulburn Valley Football Umpires Association, and is champing at the bit to get back out in the middle for season 2021.

He said it was just about love at first sight after being talked into coming down to umpire training by Greg Sidebottom.

He laughed at recounting Sidebottom’s “clever play” to bring some fathers who’d been helping out with umpiring and running school footy down to the regional umpires training.

Caia said he was hooked.

“I absolutely love it,” he said.

“I wish I’d found it when I retired instead of coming back several times. I could have had a 20 to 25-year career in it.

“It keeps you involved, you’re in the best seat in the house.

You’re in the centre of a game of footy.”

Caia played footy until his 40s, in Melbourne before he made the move north and then with Tatura and Katamatite.

He said the camaraderie between umpires was “like being part of a club”, and was something he missed during 2020’s lockdowns.

“It (2020) was a challenge, because of restrictions we were limited last year, but we got together when we could,” Caia said.

Watching AFL be played in Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia — and watching umpires going about their business — was also frustrating.

“It highlights how much you do miss it — watching AFL I’d think ‘you lucky buggers’,” Caia said.

“Because of restrictions we were limited last year, but we (the umpires) got together when we could.”

What did he do?

Caia turned back to hobbies to keep himself fit and occupied, with kayaking and bike riding at the top of the list, but he can’t wait to get back on the field come the start of April.

– MAX STAINKAMPH

Umpiresacrosstheregionarechampingatthebittogetback on the field

Between the big sticks: Umpires, from goal umps to those in the middle, will be back in action in 2021

Fraternity:Tony Caia,Tom Ford, AndrewWright, Ben Munro, Craig Brauman at an old awards night

MASTERS

MASTERS OF THEIR CRAFT It may have taken a hit due to COVID-19, but Masters football will be back for 2021.

The format has been growing steadily over the past few years, and while a year off didn’t do anyone any favours, sides from across the region will rejoice at the chance to get back on the park.

Goulburn Valley Giants president David Davis said the competition “nearly” got games in 2020, and was keen to get back as soon as possible.

“We don’t have any bells and whistles of a usual football league, we’re just out there for a kick and to have some fun with our mates,” Davis said.

“After the 12 months everyone has had, just getting out of the house will be great.”

Davis encouraged anyone to get in touch with their local side.

“Come down, you don’t have to have played football before or even been good at it if you did,” Davis said.

“Everyone’s fitness and skill levels are different, but we all enjoy ourselves at the same level.”

38 Football and Netball 2021

This season will be a big one for the Giants as they look to honour late mate and club co-founder David “Buck” McPhee, who lost his battle with cancer last year.

A Buck McPhee Memorial day is planned for March 27 before round one kicks off on the weekend of April 10 and 11.

The Giants will take on Echuca-Moama United EMUs for the Buck McPhee Cup following a curtain-raiser between other Masters players from near and far in a North v South contest at Kialla.

“Buck was a great mate to so many people in the football community, Masters or not,” Davis said.

“We all miss him and the response to the memorial day was so huge that we had to put on a second game to fit everyone in who wanted to be involved.

“Due to restrictions we weren’t able to properly say good bye to Buck, so the memorial game will hopefully give his family, friends and former teammates the opportunity to do that.”

Echuca-Moama was undefeated last season, leaving new coach Lucas Walker with some “pretty big shoes to fill”.

LucasWalker,PaulLavars,DuaneKelly,JasonVerhovenandChris Hagan of the Emus’over-35s representingVic Country in 2016

Having coached Tongala’s under-18s in Goulburn Valley League during the mid-1990s and a brief stint coaching under-10s at Echuca United, it’s been a while since Walker took the whiteboard as coach.

But when his club needed someone to step into the role, he was more than happy to put his hand up.

“It came out of filling a need,” Walker said.

“But it was an easy decision for me because I love being a part of this club. The environment around the Masters competition is something I really enjoy.

“It’s hard to get footy out of your blood, but you get to a stage where you step away from taking it super serious.

“Coming to the Masters gave me the opportunity to still play the game I love, but also to just enjoy it.”

– MAX STAINKAMPH

JUNIOR FOOTY

FLEXIBILITY THE KEY IN 2021 Shepparton District Junior Football League president Mark Lambourn has his “fingers, toes and legs” crossed for an uninterrupted season.

After the 2020 season became an off-again, on-again proposition week-by-week before being scrapped by Victoria’s second wave of coronavirus, Lambourn can’t wait to see juniors back on the track.

“I’m very excited, not so much personally, but for all the boys and girls and coaches and parents,” Lambourn said.

He said there’d likely be some lingering coronavirus restrictions on this season, with parents still encouraged to not head out to the middle during breaks, and having players turn up closer to game time.

He also raised the prospect of a floating fixture for some age groups, under-14s in particular, to create almost an A and B-grade after wildly fluctuating results in several games in 2020.

“What was happening was margins were blowing out, we want to get the average margin down to 50 points or so,” Lambourn said.

“It’s no good for anyone to be winning or losing by 100 points each week.”

He said whether two sets of finals would be played hadn’t been decided, but had no doubt clubs would be able to adapt.

“Last year showed us just how willing clubs are to adapt to organise a game of footy,” he said.

While the season doesn’t begin until the end of April, he said boys’ numbers looked positive, with under-14s looking at least 12 teams and strong numbers in under-10s and under-12s.

He said how strong numbers in the youth girls’ competition was still to be confirmed, with clubs only just beginning training at the end of February, but he was hoping to retain all clubs’ sides for 2021.

Splitting youth girls — which is currently for 13-year-olds to 17-year-olds — into two age groups is also something

Lambourn said the junior leagues would explore depending on the data on age groups they could collect.

– MAX STAINKAMPH

MarkLambourn

JUNIOR NETTY

LOOKING TO FILL THE COURTS Shepparton Netball Association players will play a 15-round season, starting on April 24 after the association confirmed the season’s details at the February 24 annual general meeting.

The 2021 season will include a two-week bye during school holidays and another bye over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend in June.

Finals will be played over three weeks, with the grand final set for September 11.

After securing the services of ex-Melbourne Vixens coach Julie Hoornweg last season to perform a mentoring role for the league’s coaches, Hoornweg will be back again.

“Julie will return for our targeted mentoring program, which will start three weeks prior to the season,” association president Tracey Toy said.

“She will develop up to 20 coaches and the program is just for SNA coaches and we believe this will also better develop our players.”

As is the case with many clubs fielding teams in the senior leagues across the district, the association is currently short of players.

“The word on the street is clubs are struggling for players to get back,” Toy said.

“We are running a few events alongside Activities in the Park with Greater Shepparton City Council to hopefully get people interested again.”

In addition to player numbers, the association is also looking for an all-abilities convener to help keep the sport as inclusive as possible.

“There were a number of clubs that didn’t attend the AGM and it meant we didn’t fill all our committee positions,” Toy said.

“At SNA, we have an all-abilities team and we have a convener, who organises the time they play and gets in contact with carers (etcetera).

“We need someone to put their hand up to be the convenor for our all-abilities team as we want netball to be a sport for everyone.”

For more information, visit Shepparton Netball Association’s Facebook page.

CaitlynWright

Football and Netball 2021 39

LEAGUE FIXTURES KYABRAM & DISTRICT FOOTBALL & NETBALL LEAGUE Round 1: Sat, April 10 Ardmona v Violet Town Lancaster v Girgarre Tallygaroopna v Merrigum Shepp East v Dookie United Murch-Tool v Longwood Undera v Rushworth Avenel v Nagambie BYE: Stanhope Round 2: Sat, April 17 Girgarre v Ardmona Merrigum v Lancaster Dookie United v Tallygaroopna Longwood v Shepp East Rushworth v Murch-Tool Stanhope v Undera Violet Town v Avenel BYE: Nagambie Round 3: Sat , April 24 Ardmona v Merrigum Lancaster v Dookie United Tallygaroopna v Longwood Shepp East v Rushworth Murch-Tool v Stanhope Undera v Nagambie Violet Town v Girgarre BYE: Avenel Round 4: Sat, May 1 Dookie United v Ardmona Longwood v Lancaster Rushworth v Tallygaroopna Stanhope v Shepp East Nagambie v Murch-Tool Avenel v Undera Merrigum v Girgarre BYE: Violet Town Round 5: Sat, May 8 Ardmona v Longwood Lancaster v Rushworth Tallygaroopna v Stanhope Shepp East v Nagambie Murch-Tool v Avenel Girgarre v Dookie United Merrigum v Violet Town BYE: Undera Round 6: Sat, May 15 Rushworth v Ardmona Stanhope v Lancaster Nagambie v Tallygaroopna Avenel v Shepp East Violet Town v Undera Longwood v Girgarre Dookie United v Merrigum BYE: Murch-Tool Round 7: Sat, May 22 Ardmona v Stanhope Lancaster v Nagambie Tallygaroopna v Avenel Murch-Tool v Undera

Girgarre v Rushworth Merrigum v Longwood Dookie United v Violet Town BYE: Shepp East Round 8: Sat, May 29 Stanhope v Girgarre Avenel v Lancaster Undera v Shepp East BYE: Ardmona, Dookie United, Longwood, Merrigum, Murch-Tool, Nagambie, Rushworth, Tallygaroopna, Violet Town Round 9: Sat, June 5 Ardmona v Avenel Tallygaroopna v Undera Shepp East v Murch-Tool Girgarre v Nagambie Merrigum v Stanhope Dookie United v Rushworth Longwood v Violet Town BYE: Lancaster GENERAL BYE: June 12 Queen’s Birthday Round 10: Sat, June 19 Undera v Lancaster Murch-Tool v Tallygaroopna Violet Town v Shepp East Avenel v Girgarre Nagambie v Merrigum Stanhope v Dookie United Rushworth v Longwood BYE: Ardmona Round 11: Sat, June 26 Ardmona v Undera Lancaster v Murch-Tool Tallygaroopna v Shepp East Merrigum v Avenel Dookie United v Nagambie Longwood v Stanhope Rushworth v Violet Town BYE: Girgarre

Round 12:

Sat, July 3 Murch-Tool v Ardmona Shepp East v Lancaster Violet Town v Tallygaroopna Undera v Girgarre Avenel v Dookie United Nagambie v Longwood Stanhope v Rushworth BYE: Merrigum Round 13: Sat, July 10 Ardmona v Shepp East Lancaster v Tallygaroopna Girgarre v Murch-Tool Merrigum v Undera Longwood v Avenel Rushworth v Nagambie Stanhope v Violet Town BYE: Dookie United

GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE

Round 14: Sat, July 17 Tallygaroopna v Ardmona Violet Town v Lancaster Shepp East v Girgarre Murch-Tool v Merrigum Undera v Dookie United Avenel v Rushworth Nagambie v Stanhope BYE: Longwood Round 15: SPLIT ROUND Sat, July 24 Lancaster v Ardmona Girgarre v Tallygaroopna Shepp East v Merrigum Dookie United v Murch-Tool Sat, July 31 Undera v Longwood Avenel v Stanhope Nagambie v Violet Town BYE: Rushworth Round 16: Sat, August 7 Girgarre v Lancaster Violet Town v Longwood Nagambie v Avenel Ardmona v Rushworth Dookie United v Shepp East Merrigum v Tallygaroopna Stanhope v Murch-Tool BYE: Undera Round 17: Sat, August 14 Murch-Tool v Nagambie Girgarre v Violet Town Lancaster v Merrigum Rushworth v Undera Shepp East v Avenel Tallygaroopna v Dookie United Longwood v Ardmona BYE: Stanhope Round 18:

Sat, August 21 Nagambie v Ardmona Violet Town v Murchison Rushworth v Merrigum Longwood v Dookie United Undera v Stanhope BYE: Avenel, Tallygaroopna, Shepp East, Lancaster, Girgare

Elimination and Qualifying finals

August 28 & 29

1st & 2nd Semi Finals September 4 & 5

Preliminary final

Saturday, September 11

ROUND 1 — Easter

Fri, April 2 Shepparton v Shepp United (N) Rochester v Kyabram (N) Euroa v Tatura (N) Sat, April 3 Echuca v Seymour Shepp Swans v Benalla Mansfield v Mooroopna

ROUND 2:

Sat, April 10 Kyabram v Shepp Swans Mooroopna v Shepparton Seymour v Rochester Benalla v Echuca Shepp Utd v Euroa Tatura v Mansfield

Round 4: ANZAC ROUND Sat, April 24 Rochester v Echuca Shepp Swans v Tatura Shepp United v Mooroopna (N) Kyabram v Shepparton Seymour v Euroa Benalla v Mansfield

Round 6: Sat, May 8 Rochester v Mooroopna Tatura v Shepp United Shepparton v Seymour Kyabram v Benalla Euroa v Shepp Swans Echuca v Mansfield

Round 7: Sat, May 15 Shepp Swans v Echuca Rochester v Shepp United Shepparton v Tatura Benalla v Seymour Mooroopna v Euroa Kyabram v Mansfield

Sat, May 22 Interleague TBC

Round 8:

Sat, May 29 Shepp Swans v Rochester Shepp United v Kyabram Echuca v Shepparton Seymour v Mooroopna Benalla v Tatura Mansfield v Euroa

Round 9:

Round 3: Sat, April 17 Echuca v Kyabram Mooroopna v Tatura Shepp Swans v Shepp United (N) Shepparton v Benalla Euroa v Rochester Mansfield — Bye BYE: Seymour

Round 5: Sat, May 1 Tatura v Rochester Mooroopna v Shepp Swans Shepp United v Echuca Seymour v Kyabram Euroa v Benalla Mansfield v Shepparton

GENERAL BYE:

Sat, June 5 Tatura v Echuca Mooroopona v Kyabram Seymour v Shepp Swans Shepp United v Benalla Euroa v Shepparton Rochester v Mansfield

Round 10 — Queen’s Birthday Weekend Sat, June 12 Echuca v Mooroopna Shepparton v Shepp Swans Tatura v Seymour Benalla v Rochester Kyabram v Euroa Mansfield v Shepp United Round 11: Sat, June 19 Kyabram v Tatura Rochester v Shepparton Shepp United v Seymour Mooroopna v Benalla Euroa v Echuca Shepp Swans v Mansfield

Round 12: Sat, June 26 Rochester v Tatura Shepp Swans v Kyabram Echuca v Shepp United Shepparton v Mooroopna Benalla v Euroa Seymour v Mansfield Round 13: Split Round

Indigenous Round (NAIDOC) Sat, July 3 Kyabram v Echuca Mooroopna v Rochester Seymour v Shepparton Sat, July 10 Shepp United v Shepp Swans Tatura v Euroa Mansfield v Benalla

Round 14: Sat, July 17 Echuca v Rochester Shepp Swans v Mooroopna Shepp United v Shepparton Benalla v Kyabram Euroa v Seymour Mansfield v Tatura Round 15: Sat, July 24 Echuca v Shepp Swans Mooroopna v Shepp United Shepparton v Kyabram Rochester v Seymour Tatura v Benalla Euroa v Mansfield Round 16 — SPLIT ROUND Sat, July 31 Tatura v Mooroopna Seymour v Echuca Mansfield v Rochester Sat, August 7 Kyabram v Shepp United Benalla v Shepp Swans Shepparton v Euroa Mansfield v Seymour Round 17: Sat, August 14 Kyabram v Rochester Echuca v Tatura Shepp Swans v Shepparton Seymour v Benalla Euroa v Mooroopna Shepp United v Mansfield Round 18: Sat, August 21 Tatura v Kyabram Shepparton v Echuca Mooroopna v Seymour Benalla v Shepp United Rochester v Euroa Mansfield v Shepp Swans Elimination and Qualifying finals

August 28 & 29

1st & 2nd Semi Finals September 4 & 5

Preliminary final

Sunday, September 12

Grand final

Sunday, September 19

Grand final

Saturday, September 18

Celebrating over 25 years servicing the agricultural industry with New Holland ECHUCA RURAL (03) 5482 2788 37-41 CORNELIA CREEK RD, ECHUCA, VIC 3564

40 Football and Netball 2021

COBRAM RURAL (03) 5871 3333 KAROOK ST, COBRAM, VIC 3644

LEAGUE FIXTURES PICOLA DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE Round 1: Friday, April 2 Tocumwal v Berrigan

Round 2: SAT, April 10 Blighty v Waaia Jerilderie v Mathoura Katamatite v Rennie Katunga v Strathmerton Deniliquin Rovers v Katandra Picola United v Tungamah Yarroweyah v Berrigan BYE: Tocumwal Round 3: SAT, April 17 Katandra v Blighty Mathoura v Katunga Deniilquin Rovers v Yarroweyah Rennie v Jerilderie Strathmerton v Picola United Tungamah v Tocumwal Waaia v Katamatite BYE: Berrigan Round 4: SAT, April 24

Berrigan v Deniliquin Rovers Jerilderie v Waaia Katamatite v Katandra Katunga v Rennie Picola United v Mathoura Tocumwal v Strathmerton Yarroweyah v Blighty BYE: Tungamah

Round 5: SAT, May 1

Blighty v Berrigan Katamatite v Yarroweyah Katandra v Jerilderie Mathoura v Tocumwal Rennie v Picola United Strathmerton v Tungamah Waaia v Katunga BYE: Deniliquin Rovers

Round 6: SAT, May 8

Berrigan v Katamatite Katunga v Katandra Deniliquin Rovers v Blighty Picola United v Waaia Tocumwal v Rennie Tungamah v Mathoura Yarroweyah v Jerilderie BYE: Strathmerton

Round 7: SAT, May 15

Jerilderie v Berrigan Katamatite v Deniliquin Rovers Katandra v Picola United Katunga v Yarroweyah Mathoura v Strathmerton Rennie v Tungamah Waaia v Tocumwal BYE: Blighty

Round 8: SAT, May 22 Berrigan v Katunga Blighty v Katamatite Katandra v Tocumwal Deniliquin Rovers v Jerilderie Strathmerton v Rennie Tungamah v Waaia Yarroweyah v Picola United BYE: Mathoura Round 9: SAT, May 29

Jerilderie v Blighty Katandra v Tungamah Katunga v Deniliquin Rovers Picola United v Berrigan Rennie v Mathoura Tocumwal v Yarroweyah Waaia v Strathmerton BYE: Katamatite

Round 10: SAT, June 5

Berrigan v Tocumwal Blighty v Katunga Katamatite v Jerilderie Mathoura v Waaia Deniliquin Rovers v Picola United Strathmerton v Katandra Yarroweyah v Tungamah BYE: Rennie

Round 11: SAT, June 12

Katandra v Mathoura Katunga v Katamatite Picola United v Blighty Strathmerton v Yarroweyah Tocumwal v Deniliquin Rovers Tungamah v Berrigan Waaia v Rennie BYE: Jerilderie

Round 12: SAT, June 19

Berrigan v Strathmerton Blighty v Tocumwal Jerilderie v Katunga Katamatite v Picola United Deniliquin Rovers v Tungamah Rennie v Katandra Yarroweyah v Mathoura BYE: Waaia

Round 13: SAT, June 26

Mathoura v Berrigan Picola United v Jerilderie Rennie v Yarroweyah Strathmerton v Deniliquin Rovers Tocumwal v Katamatite Tungamah v Blighty Waaia v Katandra BYE: Katunga

MURRAY FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE Round 14: SAT, July 10 Berrigan v Rennie Blighty v Strathmerton Jerilderie v Tocumwal Katamatite v Tungamah Katunga v Picola United Deniliquin Rovers v Mathoura Yarroweyah v Waaia BYE: Katandra Round 15: SAT, July 17 Katandra v Yarroweyah Mathoura v Blighty Rennie v Deniliquin Rovers Strathmerton v Katamatite Tocumwal v Katunga Tungamah v Jerilderie Waaia v Berrigan BYE: Picola United Round 16: SAT, July 24 Berrigan v Katandra Blighty v Rennie Jerilderie v Strathmerton Mathoura v Katamatite Deniliquin Rovers v Waaia Picola United v Tocumwal Tungamah v Katunga BYE: Yarroweyah Round 17: SAT, July 31 Berrigan v Yarroweyah Katandra v Deniliquin Rovers Mathoura v Jerilderie Rennie v Katamatite Strathmerton v Katunga Tungamah v Picola United Waaia v Blighty BYE: Tocumwal Round 18: SAT, August 7 Blighty v Katandra Jerilderie v Rennie Katamatite v Waaia Katunga v Mathoura Picola United v Strathmerton Tocumwal v Tungamah Yarroweyah v Deniliquin Rovers BYE: Berrigan Elimination Finals

August 14

Qualifying Final

August 21

Semi Finals

August 28

Preliminary Finals

September 4

Grand Final September 11

SAT, MARCH 27

Moama v Deniliquin

ROUND 1:

Fri, April 2 (GOOD FRIDAY) Rumbalara v Numurkah Barooga v Cobram Mulwala v Congupna Nathalia v Tongala Echuca United v Moama Finley v Deniliquin (n)

Sat, May 22 Tongala v Moama Mulwala v Cobram Nathalia v Finley

ROUND 8:

ROUND 2:

Sat, May 29 Cobram v Echuca United Congupna v Barooga Finley v Mulwala Numurkah v Tongala Moama v Deniliquin Rumbalara v Nathalia

ROUND 3:

Sat, June 5 Echuca United v Nathalia Barooga v Moama Mulwala v Deniliquin Tongala v Congupna Finley v Cobram Numurkah v Rumbalara

ROUND 4:

Sat, June 12 Moama v Echuca United Deniliquin v Finley Cobram v Barooga Nathalia v Mulwala Congupna v Numurkah Rumbalara v Tongala

Sat, April 10 Numurkah v Finley Cobram v Nathalia Congupna v Echuca United Tongala v Barooga Moama v Mulwala Deniliquin v Rumbalara

ROUND 9:

Sat, April 17 Finley v Congupna Echuca United v Deniliquin Mulwala v Numurkah Rumbalara v Moama Cobram v Tongala Nathalia v Barooga

ROUND 10:

Sat, April 24 Congupna v Rumbalara Tongala v Echuca United Deniliquin v Cobram Moama v Finley Barooga v Mulwala Numurkah v Nathalia

ROUND 5:

Sat, May 1 Deniliquin v Tongala Echuca United v Numurkah Cobram v Moama Mulwala v Rumbalara Nathalia v Congupna Finley v Barooga

ROUND 6:

Sat, May 8 Numurkah v Deniliquin Moama v Nathalia Rumbalara v Finley Congupna v Cobram Barooga v Echuca United Tongala v Mulwala

ROUND 7: SPLIT ROUND

Sat, May 15 Barooga v Numurkah Deniliquin v Congupna Echuca United v Rumbalara

SHEPPARTON RURAL (03) 5832 3500 21 TELFORD DR, SHEPPARTON, VIC 3630

ROUND 14:

Sat, July 17 Numurkah v Mulwala Tongala v Cobram Barooga v Nathalia Finley v Moama Deniliquin v Echuca United Rumbalara v Congupna

ROUND 15:

Sat, July 24 Mulwala v Barooga Cobram v Finley Moama v Rumbalara Echuca United v Tongala Congupna v Deniliquin Sun, July 25 Nathalia v Numurkah

ROUND 16:

SPLIT ROUND Sat, July 31 Rumbalara v Barooga Moama v Congupna Tongala v Finley Sat, August 7 Numurkah v Echuca United Cobram v Mulwala Deniliquin v Nathalia

ROUND 11:

ROUND 17:

ROUND 12:

ROUND 18:

Sat, June 19 Echuca United v Congupna Finley v Rumbalara Barooga v Deniliquin Mulwala v Moama Numurkah v Cobram Tongala v Nathalia Sat, June 26 Congupna v Tongala Deniliquin v Numurkah Echuca United v Barooga Cobram v Rumbalara Nathalia v Moama Mulwala v Finley

GENERAL BYE: Sat, July 3

ROUND 13:

Sat, July 10 Finley v Echuca United Congupna v Mulwala Barooga v Tongala Rumbalara v Deniliquin Moama v Numurkah Nathalia v Cobram

Sat, August 14 Tongala v Numurkah Echuca United v Cobram Barooga v Congupna Finley v Nathalia Rumbalara v Mulwala Deniliquin v Moama Sat, August 21 Cobram v Deniliquin Congupna v Finley Mulwala v Echuca United Numurkah v Barooga Moama v Tongala Nathalia v Rumbalara

1st & 2nd Elim Augus t 28 & 29

1st & 2nd SEMI Septembe r 4 & 5

Preliminary Final Septembe r 11

GRAND FINAL Septembe r 18

WEBSITE WWW.RURALGROUP.COM.AU

Football and Netball 2021 41

MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

COMPETITIONS TIGHTER THAN EVER For most of the Murray Football Netball League ranks, getting fresh faces on the premiership dais will be the aim of the 2021 campaign.

Nathalia in the senior football and cross-town rivals Echuca United and Moama in the A-grade netball have dominated the past five seasons of top-level flags in the region.

The Purples will certainly be there when the whips are cracking again this year, but plenty of rivals are jostling for the opportunity to take down the greatest dynasty in the history of the competition.

2019 challenger Tongala will be

around the mark, with the group keen for another crack on the last day of September.

Congupna has recruited a large cohort of experienced footballers to help it take another step in its development, while Barooga looks to be getting plenty of the band back together — and has signed Jackson Trengrove to boot.

Mulwala cannot wait to unleash the one-two midfield punch of Bodhi Butts and Jackson Gash, while the likes of Rumbalara, Finley and Cobram will challenge for finals action.

And with Katandra and Tungamah leaving the league it

brings the number of competitors back to 12.

On the court, Moama and Deniliquin will again be among the premier performers, but watch out for Rumbalara and Nathalia who look primed for a top-four finish.

The Purples especially should soar up the table with Tamara Skinner and Kirsty Hommes on board this year.

But from there, like in most campaigns, it is anyone’s guess as to where squads will land — especially after 18 months of no competitive netball.

PREMIERS 2019

Nathalia

– TYLER MAHER

PREMIERS 2019

LADDER PREDICTION FOOTBALL

EchucaUnited

PAST A-GRADE BEST AND FAIRESTS 2019: Elenoa Naimalua (Rumbalara) 2018: Tessa Bruni (Cobram) 2017: Amelia Wyatt (Deniliquin) 2016: Jessie Barnes (Rumbalara) 2015: Alicia White (Tongala) 2014: Tamara Skinner (Numurkah) 2013: Leanne Rawson (Numurkah) 2012: Renee Judd (Numurkah) 2011: Rebecca White (Deniliquin)

42 Football and Netball 2021

O’DWYER MEDALLISTS 2019: Jackson Gash (Mulwala) 2018: Brodie A’Vard (Barooga) 2017: Rhys Archard (Moama) 2016: Ned Morrison (Finley) 2015: Rhys Archard (Moama) 2014: Marcus Smith (Barooga) 2013: Ash Morris (Deniliquin Rams) 2012: Rowan Priest (Echuca United) 2011: Ryan Bongetti (Cobram) 2010: Ryan Bongetti (Cobram)

NETBALL

1

NATHALIA

1

RUMBALARA

2

TONGALA

2

NATHALIA

3

CONGUPNA

3

DENILIQUIN RAMS

4

BAROOGA

4

MOAMA

5

MULWALA

5

MULWALA

6

FINLEY

6

CONGUPNA

7

RUMBALARA

7

BAROOGA

8

COBRAM

8

COBRAM

9

MOAMA

9

TONGALA

10

DENILIQUIN RAMS

10

FINLEY

11

NUMURKAH

11

ECHUCA UNITED

12

ECHUCA UNITED

12

NUMURKAH

13

BAROOGA

13

BAROOGA

14

KATANDRA

14

NUMURKAH

PAST PREMIERS

FOOTBALL 2019: Nathalia 2018: Nathalia 2017: Nathalia 2016: Nathalia 2015: Nathalia 2014: Rumbalara 2013: Echuca United 2012: Nathalia 2011: Deniliquin Rams 2010: Moama

NETBALL 2019: Echuca United 2018: Moama 2017: Moama 2016: Echuca United 2015: Echuca United 2014: Numurkah 2013: Mulwala 2012: Finley 2011: Mulwala 2010: Numurkah

MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

BAROOGA HAWKS NETBALL

FOOTBALL New Barooga coach Tim Hargreaves is open-minded about where 2021 could take his side.

After just six wins in 2019, not too many people are expecting the Hawks to trouble the Murray Football League’s top sides this year.

But it must be remembered five of their losses the last time they played were by three goals or less.

Despite a year away from the field, Hargreaves said he had already seen plenty of development from the club’s younger players during pre-season.

“On paper we’re very pleased with the list we’ve been able to put together so far,” Hargreaves said.

“We’re not going to shy away from the fact we want to play finals this season because everyone wants to be involved at the pointy end of the season.

“I know it’s a cliché, but we’re going to break our season down into blocks. After our first four games we will sit down and reassess where we are at.

“It’s important we continue to be open and honest with our

group about where we want to go.”

Hawks supporters have every right to get excited about the signings Hargreaves and his coaching staff have been able to make this season.

Those include former Port Adelaide and Western Bulldogs big man Jackson Trengove and Daniel Johnson, who has played with Norwood in the SANFL. While Tom Thorsen arrives from Shepparton in the Goulburn Valley League.

“All of the new guys have been excellent on the track,” Hargreaves said.

“Having played at a higher level they’ve all been able to offer us different ideas which is only going to make us better as a playing group.

“Then you see Jackson taking on an off-field role as a junior development officer shows how much these guys are buying into the club.

“The three of them also offer us a bit more height which will make us less predictable to opposition sides.

“We’ve also been lucky enough to welcome back a few local guys who can’t wait to get stuck into it.”

There is a quiet sense of confidence which is continuing to grow at Barooga.

Under the watchful eye of new coach Matt Healey, the Hawks are determined to return to finals action after missing out two years ago.

There haven’t been just off-field changes either with several new faces expected to appear in the club’s A-grade side in round one.

“I’d like to think finals as a minimum is our goal,” Healey said.

“When I first sat down with the club, they made it clear to me it was their goal to add quality into the line-up and I think we’ve been able to do that.

“What happens this year is somewhat of a mystery because everyone has had a season off.

“But I believe we’re going to be up for the challenges 2021 throws at us.”

JacksonTrengove

– BRAYDEN MAY

SharniHazelman

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Tom Thorsen, Jackson Trengove, Daniel Johnson, Max Mackay, Billy Andrews.

OUT: Ricky Thomson, Nicholas Sim, Lucas Olson (Yarroweyah), Brad Oats, Dwayne Wilson.

FAST FACTS

COACH: TIM HARGREAVES. MFL PREMIERSHIPS: 1992, 1993, 1994, 1997.

2019 FINISH: 10TH (6–12). 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: RICKY THOMSON. 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: LUCAS OLSON (27). GROUND: BAROOGA RECREATION RESERVE. NICKNAME: HAWKS.

COACH: MATT HEALEY 2019 FINISH: 11TH (5-13)

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Football and Netball 2021 43

MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

COBRAM TIGERS FOOTBALL Cobram’s new footballing chapter is finally ready to take shape in 2021.

New coach John Brunskill is finally set to take the reins after the false start which was last year.

And having closely overseen the work of the former Strathmerton coach for almost 18 months, Tigers president Peter Beasley said he was excited by what may lay ahead.

“I can’t wait to see just how far John is able to develop our group in what we hope is a full year of footy,” he said.

“He has been an assistant coach in the past, but now he has the opportunity to drive the bus and we’ve been super impressed by what he has brought to the role.

“John has a great relationship with the players which meant he was a great fit for us.”

The Tigers will be hoping to break their finals win drought this season having immediately exited in the past two campaigns.

And Beasley is confident there will be a change of fortune.

“Everyone wants to play finals, but there is so many unknowns this year,” he said.

“Because every club has had 12 months off there isn’t really too much you’re able to compare yourself to.

NETBALL “But in saying that, we would be disappointed if we can’t push up the ladder after finishing seventh in 2019.”

Beasley said the club had managed to keep most of its senior group from 2019 together, while a handful of under-17s are expected to feature at some point in Brunskill’s team during the season.

“We’ve got our under-17s premiership side from 2019 coming through,” he said.

“As a club we’re really excited to see what they can do as players, not just this year, but also into the future.

“We pride ourselves on developing our own talent and that’s going to be as important as ever this year.”

One player to keep an eye on at Tigerland will be big man Tim Baker who has arrived from Macleod in the Northern Football League.

“He’s been really impressive on the track,” Beasley said.

“Tim should be able to give our midfielders first use of the footy most weeks.”

AdamDeCicco

–BRAYDEN MAY

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Tim Baker (Macleod).

OUT: Daniel Clarke, Tom Scott (Yarroweyah).

FAST FACTS

MegDenson

COACH: JOHN BRUNSKILL MFL PREMIERSHIPS: 1947, 1948, 1955, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1969, 1974, 1984, 1985, 1998. 2019 FINISH: SEVENTH (10–8) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: ADAM DE CICCO 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: CADEYN WILLIAMS (35) GROUND: SCOTT OVAL NICKNAME: TIGERS

YOUR COMPLETE FREIGHT SOLUTION COBRAM - SHEPPARTON - MELBOURNE SYDNEY - BRISBANE - ADELAIDE

44 Football and Netball 2021

Cobram’s next generation of stars are primed to lead the side towards a finals assault in 2021.

After a fifth-placed finish in 2019, co-coaches Georgia Kerr and Meg Denson are preparing to turn to their younger brigade to help the side move further up the ladder.

And despite the disappointment of a cancelled season in 2020, Kennedy believes the team will be able to hit the ground running.

“Meg and I had great plans we were putting in place for last season before everything was called off,” Kerr said.

“We will carry these over to our new season, new team and can’t wait to see what our group can achieve.

“We have lots of fantastic juniors coming through the senior ranks and we are excited to give them the opportunity to experience senior netball to set up the coming years for the club.

“We are striving for a competitive year ahead and are aiming to build on our finals campaigns that we have worked hard to achieve over the past few years.”

CO-COACHES: GEORGIA KERR AND MEG DENSON 2019 FINISH: FIFTH (12-8)

111-115 Karook St, Cobram, VIC, 3644

Ph: (03) 5872 2644 hickstransportgroup.com.au

MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

CONGUPNA THE ROAD FOOTBALL Congupna is determined to make sure its first finals appearance — and victories — in recent memory was not just a flash in the pan.

The surprise packet of the 2019 Murray Football League season made it all the way to the penultimate hurdle before running into powerhouse Nathalia — but under new coach Peter Sheehan wants to do even better this campaign.

Although The Road lost arguably the best player in the competition in BJ Squire, the side’s list of inclusions is impressive, and is built around a large swathe of ex-Shepparton United footballers.

“They’ve all come back pretty keen to touch the footies and really just be around their mates,” Sheehan said.

“Our main aim was to top up and get better. It had been a fair while since Congupna had made the finals, so we worked hard to retain as many players from that 2019 side as possible and then build on what we needed to challenge the Nathalias and Tongalas. Even though we made the prelim, we were still a fair way off Nathalia.

“Having Ben Pedretti come on board as senior assistant coach has been a real shot in the arm for the club. It has made recruiting those former United boys a lot easier

through his connections with them.”

The group includes the likes of experienced midfielders Matt Di Bella and Ben Bingham, as well as younger prospects like Fraser Hicks and Sam Buxton.

“When you can bring a group of mates into a club, and even a few family members as well, it makes the group as a whole a lot stronger,” Sheehan said.

“And even though we’ve brought a fair few in, looking at the group train you would have thought they already had a few seasons together, everyone’s getting on really well and the older boys are nurturing the younger ones well.

“We’re definitely looking to play finals again, we’d love to finish in the top two, but you don’t know what will happen once you’re out there.

“I think our depth will be a lot stronger than it was, but as always if a few key players go down it could leave a hole.”

–TYLER MAHER

Matt Di Bella

MorganZotti

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Matt Di Bella, Ben Bingham, Ben Pedretti, Cody Di Bella, Sam Slavich, Sam Buxton, Fraser Hicks (Shepparton United), Dustin Blake (Mooroopna), Hugo Ingham, Ash Philipps (Shepparton), Zavier Ballis (Tatura), Glenn Boyd (Woorinen), Alex Overs OUT: BJ Squire (Shepparton Swans), Lachie Baldwin (Violet Town)

FAST FACTS

COACH: PETER SHEEHAN MFL PREMIERSHIPS: NONE 2019 FINISH: FOURTH (12–9) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: BJ SQUIRE 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: DANIEL CAMPBELL (61) GROUND: MEMORIAL PARK NICKNAME: THE ROAD

www.kevinhicksrealestate.com.au

NETBALL Congupna has showcased its growing credentials as a destination club in the Murray Netball League ranks.

An entire starting line-up’s worth of players have joined The Road’s A and B-grade squad, with coach Ash Warren excited to see so many new faces among the group.

It will give the side the platform it needs to lift its targets from just making finals to having a strong say in them.

“I think it will be a very strong season for Congupna,” Warren said.

“But we’ll be just keen to get out there.

The first three or four training sessions all the girls wanted to do was to play games of netball between ourselves because they missed it so much.”

Steph Said (Undera), Sam Rennie, Steph Hicks (Tatura), Morgan Zotti (Seymour), Shae Montgomery (Tallygaroopna), Julie Kildey (Shepparton Swans) and Britt Ditterich (Woorinen) are heading to Memorial Park, with Sophie Sidebottom and Meg Semmens back on deck as well.

“Pre-season has been a bit staggered,” Warren said.

“But we were able to finalise our teams before (lockdown three in Victoria), so we came out of it with good focus.

“We’re bringing in lots of GVL experience and lots of younger girls, but players like Britt bring so much wisdom and experience and that’s really helping to develop the younger girls too.”

Congupna also has a new netball president this year in Sarah Newman.

COACH: ASH WARREN 2019 FINISH: EIGHTH (7-1-11)

Offices: Shepparton 5821 8388 Numurkah 5862 2611 Football and Netball 2021 45

MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

DENILIQUIN RAMS FOOTBALL Deniliquin continued its recruitment drive of enticing ex-locals back to the club to help its rise up the ladder in 2021.

Headlining the list is former VFL on-baller Blair Whelan.

Whelan — who’s based in Melbourne — will join brother Josh in Rams colours once again, after last playing together in the blue and gold in 2013.

Rams co-coach Tim Holobowski said the addition of Whelan would add some depth to the club’s midfield and set an example for the younger guys as to how to prepare for the season.

“Blair’s a quality player and a quality person,” Holobowski said.

“We’re big on recruiting quality people, and Blair’s certainly that, and his family has played a massive part at our club for a long time.

“What a lot of people may not know is how hard Blair works on his fitness and match preparation, which is something we’re looking to improve as a group. He’s an elite runner and sets a great example on and off the field.”

Other former junior Rams returning to the club include Bryce Scoullar, Josh Peers, Tyler Amor-Beale, Brett Macdonald and Matt O’Connor.

NETBALL Rams co-coach Sam Hall was ecstatic with the recruiting coup, saying it was particularly good to have Scoullar and Peers back home.

“I remember their time here in the junior ranks quite fondly, having coached Josh in the thirds to a losing grand final in 2008,” Hall said.

“Bryce was always a presence when he joined the club as well, with his height he’s hard to miss.

“Bryce will obviously play a key role in the ruck for us as well as offer a target when resting up forward. Josh will likely share duties in the middle and running through the forward 50.”

Scoullar has always shown promise since joining the Rams as a junior, first making his senior debut for the club as a 17-year-old in 2015.

BryceScoullar

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Blair Whelan, Bryce Scoullar, Josh Peers, Tyler Amor-Beale, Dane Maxwell, Brett Macdonald, Matt O’Connor, Lachlan Osborne OUT: Will Shaw (GWS), Nick Howe (Darwin), Adrian Pappin

FAST FACTS

After 10 years away Gabby Barlow has returned to lead Deniliquin’s A-grade team.

Barlow has taken on the role as a playing coach, ending a three-year hiatus from competitive netball.

Barlow brings a wealth of experience back to Murray Netball League with her, playing for Colbinabbin in the Heathcote District league for six years.

During her time with Colbo she won three premierships and represented the HDL interleague squad — before finishing up in 2017 to travel.

“I’m visioning a very successful year in 2021,” Barlow said.

“I spent my teenage years playing at Rams building a foundation for my netball career and now I’m excited to be able to lead the club.”

With a relatively young list of players keen to compete, Barlow said her main focus for the season was to develop the future stars of the club.

“It thrills me to have a number of strong, young women that are coming through and stepping up to play amazing netball,” she said.

“Leading into 2021, a huge focus for me is on development and the guidance and nurturing of the future of our club.”

–JAMIE LOWE

GabbyBarlow

COACHES: TIM HOLOBOWSKI, SAM HALL MFL PREMIERSHIPS: 1957, 1966, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1976, 1985, 1986, 1996, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2011 2019 FINISH: 11TH (6–12) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: RICKY GITTENS 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: ADRIAN PAPPIN (24) GROUND: HARDINGE ST OVAL NICKNAME: RAMS

COACH: GABBY BARLOW 2019 FINISH: FOURTH (14–4)

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MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

ECHUCA UNITED EAGLES FOOTBALL A lot can change in 12 months, Echuca United is a perfect example.

Before the season was cancelled in 2020, many were tipping the Eagles to challenge for a Murray Football League premiership.

But in 2021, they are the great unknown.

When the side takes to the field in the opening game of the season against Moama, there will be plenty of new faces running out in the blue and gold.

Experienced players including competition leading goalkicker Josh Mellington (now at Violet Town) have departed followed the resignation of Guy Campbell.

It has left new coach Adam Sutherland with a lot to contemplate, but he is ready to embrace the challenge.

“This new group has the perfect opportunity to forge their own identity,” Sutherland said.

“Being new to the competition and area I don’t think I’m in any position to make a bold statement about what we are going to achieve.

“Having several young kids in the side is a great unknown for everyone involved because anything could happen.

NETBALL “The sink or swim approach has plenty of excitement about it.”

The Eagles’ young guns won’t be forced to go at it alone though with Sutherland bringing in a trio of talented mature-aged bodies.

They include Tom Wallis, the son of former Essendon premiership player Dean, Michael Caven and Mitch Jensen.

“I think all three of those guys add some real quality to our line-up,” Sutherland said.

“They’ve all played at a high level, whether it be at the elite level or strong local competitions, and they can show our guys the way forward.”

As to what type of footy we can expect to see from the Eagles, Sutherland said it was clear his team’s athletic ability had stood out during pre-season.

“We want to move the footy fast, but without taking any unnecessary risk,” he said.

“I want the boys to play with a high temp and pressure the opposition relentlessly.

“If we can get it right I think we could surprise a few.”

AlanaNelson

JustinCantwell

PLAYER CHANGES

Echuca United is the reigning A-grade premier, but in 2021 it’s a different looking team.

Almost all of the stars from the 2019 grand final have departed the club, meaning there will be greater opportunities for the Eagles’ next generation of stars.

Grant Matthews has been reappointed as the A-grade coach and he will be well supported by Naomi Williams who has been the B-grade coach.

Head of netball Chris Day said he was excited to see the experienced duo at work.

“We’re really pleased with our appointments,” Day said.

“Obviously things are going to be very different, but we see it as a chance for this group to put their own stamp on our netball program.

“We have a number of talented young juniors who are taking their first steps in the senior grades and it’s going to be exciting to see them adapt to the challenge.

“I think we will do better than some people might expect.”

–BRAYDEN MAY

INS: Drew Austin (Mathoura), Adam Bennett (Mathoura), Matt Lias (Echuca/Tiwi Bombers), Connor Shannon (Lockington), Lachlan Egglestone (Lockington), Mitch Jensen (Essendon Doutta Stars), Tommy Wallis (Essendon Doutta Stars), Michael Caven (St Bernard’s) OUTS: Ashley Carmody (Waaia), Kyle Coates (Queensland), Nic Denahy (Kyabram), Phil Hubbard (Elmore), Josh Mellington (Violet Town), Farran Priest (Elmore), Luke Sanderson (Strathmerton), Clayton Zanella (Strathmerton), Dean Moon (retired), Rowan Priest (retired)

FAST FACTS

COACH: ADAM SUTHERLAND MFL PREMIERSHIPS: 2013 2019 FINISH: FIFTH (15–5) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JOSH MELLINGTON 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: JOSH MELLINGTON GROUND: ECHUCA SOUTH RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: EAGLES

COACH: GRANT MATTHEWS 2019 FINISH: PREMIER (19–1–2)

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Football and Netball 2021 47

MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

FINLEY CATS FOOTBALL

NETBALL

Finley is shaping up for another so hopefully we can get some charge at Murray Football over the line.”

League finals in 2021, following a The Cats were preparing for big off-season. a quick climb up the ladder in Ryan Cobain will be joining 2020 before the coronavirus a talented Cats list, with the pandemic struck and had footy 2018 Wangaratta Rovers club across the region called off. best-and-fairest one of a host of Doyle said the cancellation marquee players the Cats have of the Murray Football League signed. last year had his players feeling Angus Robertson is also “robbed”. returning to the club after “We had a full pre-season recently playing for Claremont and were let down after it was in Western Australia Football announced we wouldn’t be League. playing,” Doyle said.

He will line-up alongside his “We are raring to go now and brothers Tim, Cameron, Nick have a big season ahead. and William, as well as cousins “Training also saw a new Callum and Jeremy Robertson. face in Jock Adamson join us.

The Cats are also welcoming He moved to town recently and back former Finley best-andis working on a farm in the area, fairest winner Tim McKenzie. so hopefully he’ll be a handy Returning senior coach Tom addition.

Doyle said he was keen to see “I’m hoping to be a non-playing how his side would fare with the coach, and with Tim McKenzie big signings. and Lachie Hawkins in the ruck, “We have lost a couple we should be right without me of younger blokes who are having to pull on the boots. off to uni this year, but to “It will depend on whether I pick up a couple of older need to fill key positions or not. blokes should help us out,” “Also, our young players are Doyle said. coming through and I don’t “We’re hoping to be quite want to get in the way of their competitive this year and are development.” still talking to a few players,

Pumped to hit the courts in 2021, Finley is looking to pick up right where they left off in 2019.

With a focus on team fitness and skills, club spokesperson Emma Hurlston said the girls overcame a number of hurdles in 2019, losing a number of players to injury, to secure a spot in the semi-finals.

“The Cats have been working hard during pre-season, partnering with industry professionals to focus on injury prevention,” Hurlston said.

“And are looking to field yet another A-grade side filled with some of the most talented young guns of the league.

“We cannot wait to see what the 2021 season brings for the Finley Cats.”

FAST FACTS

–MADDY FOGARTY

TimMcKenzie

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Ryan Cobain, Angus Robertson, Tim McKenzie OUT: Zech Cuppens, Luke Moore

COACH: TOM DOYLE MFL PREMIERSHIPS: 1952, 1954, 1958, 1971, 1981, 1982, 1988 2019 FINISH: NINTH (7–1–10) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: LUKE MOORE 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: MAT WILSON (38) GROUND: FINLEY RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: CATS

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MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

MOAMA MAGPIES NETBALL

FOOTBALL Moama opted for short-term pain, long-term gain by selecting its young guns in 2019.

Now, with the addition of some senior bodies, it will be looking to climb up the ladder.

“There’s a fair bit of excitement,” Moama coach Luke Eldridge said.

“Our playing group is just jumping out of their skins to be back playing again. We’ve added some core senior guys into the group, and that adds some real experience and leadership.”

While the club will have a number of new experienced players, Eldridge said the work with the club’s young guns in 2019 would be a key for the side.

“It was a really good year for us in terms of development in 2019, we saw a massive leap of development in that group across the season,” he said.

“They’ve now had all the extra time to prepare. Their bodies are bigger, they’re stronger and they’ve developed their game a lot as well.”

Eldridge expects the new additions to be a big advantage for the club.

“Our younger guys are developing, but they’re still learning. Having those senior players around takes a bit of pressure off, it gives a bit of

protection from throwing the young guys to the wolves.”

And while the Magpies finished at the bottom of the ladder last season, there are high hopes around their new-look home of Moama Recreation Reserve.

“We think the list we have put together now is a really good one,” Eldridge said.

“And we think it’s a list that can be really competitive this season.

That’s what’s really driving the excitement for the group, the belief is there that we will be able to do something really good this season and we hope to show that as the year goes on.”

CarmenO'DwyerandJodieLake

FraserVerhey

JackRussell

Jodie Lake is well aware of the talent level she has at her disposal at Moama this year.

Moama may be a different looking side in 2021 than the side that lost the 2019 grand final, but the Magpies are already plotting a return to the top.

“The calibre of players that we have at this club, we have high hopes that we are going to have a successful season,” Lake said.

“And I think the year off can add to that motivation as well. Particularly for our more experienced players who have been playing netball their entire lives, they are just ready to get back out there and try and have an impact immediately.

“There is a really good feeling around this club this year, we’ve trained hard and are really happy with the plans we have put into place, so we are looking forward to seeing what this season brings for our club.”

–ANDREW JOHNSTON

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Jye Warren (Numurkah), Justin Wilson (Coolangatta), Darcy Bibby (Leitchville-Gunbower), Toby Hore (Leitchville-Gunbower), Jack Gleeson (Tooleybuc Manangatang), Callum Doyle (Rochester), George Presto (overseas), Liam Ritchie (injury), Fraser Verhey (Echuca), Kobe Poulton (Echuca), Brock Kennedy (Echuca), Josh Pell (Kyabram), Jake Kilmartin (Modewarre), Jackson Pellegrino (Echuca), Jye Smith (Echuca United), Ned Osborne (Echuca United), Lachlan Cosgriff (Monash Blues), Logan Power (Dimboola), Matthew Close (Wandella), Daniel Thorp (returned) OUT: Sam Youngman (Waubra), Dylan Wright (Anglesea), Lachlan Thorp, Jack Harland

FAST FACTS

COACH: LUKE ELDRIDGE MFL PREMIERSHIPS: 2010 2019 FINISH: 14TH (2–16) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JACK HARLAND 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: FRASER BUCHANAN (44) GROUND: MOAMA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: MAGPIES

COACH: JODIE LAKE 2019 FINISH: RUNNER-UP (17–1–3)

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Football and Netball 2021 49

MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

MULWALA LIONS FOOTBALL

NETBALL

A three-pronged coaching set-up will steer Mulwala in the right direction in Murray Football League this season.

Jason Sanderson has been joined by Bodhi Butts and Jackson Gash as Lions mentors, sharing the load and giving the side more opportunities to diagnose and implement the small tweaks needed to push for premiership success.

Despite boasting a winning percentage of almost 63 per cent in the past three completed campaigns, the Lions have struggled to capitalise come finals.

But the return of Butts to Lonsdale Reserve will go a long way to rectifying that trend.

“I’m going back to Mulwala to hopefully have some success, it’s good to be back,” Butts said.

“Hopefully we get a season up, it would be tough to go two years without footy. It’s obviously been a couple of pre-seasons in a row now.

“Half of our side live in Yarrawonga, so they’ve been involved with all of the Victorian rules and lockdowns.

Being on both sides of the border hasn’t been ideal.

“But it’s exciting that it’s back on the horizon now and we’re back into it.”

A core midfield duo of Butts and Gash is enough to scare any opposition side, but there are plenty of other Lions ready to put in a career best year.

“Harry Crossley is lighting up the track,” Butts said.

“Sean Johns has bounced back really well from his broken ankle a couple of years ago as well.

“We’ve got a good core group of young kids, so hopefully they can step up this season.”

Dylan Robinson returns to the Lions as well, while Dylan Flanagan is among those heading elsewhere.

HarryCrossley

Mulwala is looking to take the next step in Murray Netball League’s A-grade ranks.

The Lions, perennial competitors, want to be contenders this season as the competition returns from its almost 18-month hiatus.

And returning coach Bre Flanagan thinks she has compiled a squad which can make that wish a reality.

“I’m looking forward to it, there’s a fair few new girls which is great to see,” Flanagan said.

“There’s four new girls into the A/B squad and a few juniors pushing up as well, which will give us a good mix.

“I think we’ve always been on the verge of being a top team, but we’re really looking to making the jump up the ladder and be a real contender.”

Alex Ridley and Indiana Frauenfelder are among the new faces, while Steph Beams will also return to the court.

“Last season (in 2019) we had some younger ones playing like Lara Langford who are now a year or so older which will help their development,” Flanagan said.

“Hopefully we can get out on the court and get a full season in.”

–TYLER MAHER

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Bodhi Butts (Tungamah), Dylan Robinson.

OUT: Dylan Flanagan.

StephBeams

FAST FACTS

COACHES: JASON SANDERSON, JACKSON GASH AND BODHI BUTTS MFL PREMIERSHIPS: 1990 2019 FINISH: SIXTH (11–1–8) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JACKSON GASH 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: SEAN ROBINSON (39) GROUND: LONSDALE RESERVE NICKNAME: LIONS

COACH: BRE FLANAGAN 2019 FINISH: SEVENTH (11–8)

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MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

NATHALIA PURPLES FOOTBALL Nathalia has already broken new ground in Murray Football League.

The first five-time reigning premier in the competition’s history will have had an extra year to bask in the glow of that record by the time the next senior premiership is awarded.

But if Mal Barnes and his troops have anything to say about it, they’ll be once again handing it to themselves.

The Purples are a vastly experienced outfit at the top end — 10 premierships in about the career-span of a local footballer will do that to a list — but with the average age of plenty of those premiership stars well into the 30s, MFL rivals have been waiting for a swathe of retirements to reshape the best team in the business.

That time has not yet arrived.

“They’re all sticking around and are as keen as anyone,” Barnes said of his veterans.

“They really enjoyed the extra time with their families and the opportunity to get all of the niggles right. The year off has helped the bodies for sure.”

Bringing another generation through the ranks will also be key for the Purples to keep their squad fresh.

NETBALL “It’s looking positive at the moment, there’s a good younger group and the numbers have been really good,” Barnes said.

“The social side will be important this year in getting everyone back around the club from the community after a tough year or so.

“There’s a few good juniors coming up through the ranks too, the thirds from 2019 and even some of the fourths from that year will be pushing for a go.

“It’s been good to see a few people come down and watch training already, we’re all just really excited to be back.”

Bailey Bell, Adam Jorgensen and Brayden Summerville are among the departures, while the signing of Jaydan Thewma adds plenty of pace.

“We’ve got a couple of others in the works,” Barnes said.

“But mostly we’ll (fill the gaps) by getting some more time into the younger kids.”

JaydanThewma

– TYLER MAHER

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Jaydan Thewma (Tatura) OUT: Bailey Bell (Tatura), Adam Jorgensen, Brayden Summerville

FAST FACTS

Nathalia is ready to become a powerhouse in Murray Netball League once more.

The Purples have been slowly building an A-grade squad capable of a deep finals run in the past few years — but are ready to explode this campaign.

The additions of Tamara Skinner and Kirsty Hommes will give the Purples a one-two punch in attack and defence respectively that other outfits will struggle to match.

Add Strathmerton premiership star Tegan Sutton — who joined ahead of last year’s cancelled season — and Victorian Netball League-listed Caitlin McLachlan to the much-improved cohort of 2019 as well and coach Emma McDonald believes she has found a recipe for success. “(This season) has been a long time coming, everyone’s keen to get stuck into it,” McDonald said.

“The reality is at any point it can get taken out from under us, so it’s still a bit of a worry, but if we get to play it will be great.

“The most difficult part was that we recruited really well last year and haven’t been able to get on the court yet.

“Nathalia has been in a rebuilding phase the past few years, so we’re really keen to get out there and play well.”

KirstyHommes

COACH: MAL BARNES MFL PREMIERSHIPS: 1939, 1949, 1963, 1978, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 2019 FINISH: PREMIER (20–1) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: ALEX HICKS 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: LIAM EVANS (67) GROUND: NATHALIA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: PURPLES

COACH: EMMA MCDONALD 2019 FINISH: NINTH (7–1–10)

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MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

NUMURKAH BLUES FOOTBALL Sean Harrap has been senior coach of Numurkah for more than a year, but is yet to lead his team in a Murray Football League match.

The former Shepparton mentor will be keen to tick that milestone off this campaign as the Blues look to again take the competition by surprise.

Despite losing a number of experienced players since a 2019 preliminary final loss, Harrap is confident the Blues can still match it with

NETBALL the best teams in the league this year.

“I’ve done two pre-seasons with the club now and still haven’t played a game of footy yet, so it has been a different experience,” Harrap said.

“We’ve probably lost seven or eight that would have played senior footy last year, but that’s just the way it goes, it’s just how the last 12 months have panned out.

“We’ve been getting 20–25 consistently at training

throughout the summer which is the core of the group pushing to play seniors.”

Key to Numurkah’s chances will be a younger brigade itching to prove itself at senior level after two summers of hard work on the track.

“The promising thing is some of the younger guys with another year of growing under their belts like Kade O’Dwyer, Rhys Cason, Clancy Lester, Jarrod Holmes and Flynn Penberthy will all be in

a really good position to take their games to the next level,” Harrap said.

“The club was in a similar position in 2019 where they had lost a few players and then made it to a prelim and probably should have been playing in a grand final.

“We’ll try and be positive and enjoy our footy and I think in doing that we’ll be pretty competitive.

“Hopefully the community can get around us.”

CatElliott

PLAYER CHANGES ClancyLester

FAST FACTS

IN: Trent Baker, Trent Craven, Travis Down (Strathmerton).

OUT: Jye Warren (Moama), Tim Arnel, Ben Gunning, Michael Herlihy.

COACH: SEAN HARRAP MFL PREMIERSHIPS: 1932, 1933, 1937, 1938, 1950, 1951, 1953, 1962, 1970, 1977, 1979, 1999, 2000 2019 FINISH: THIRD (13–7) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: BEAU MCKEOWN 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: MICHAEL HERLIHY (54) GROUND: NUMURKAH SHOWGROUNDS NICKNAME: BLUES

There is no sugar-coating the fact Numurkah’s netball list is missing a few of the key cogs needed to be a premiership contender.

A fierce Murray Netball League A-grade competition awaits in 2021 as teams charge back onto the court after almost 18 months without netball, but the Blues will be focused on developing their next generation of stars.

“From that 18–21-year-old bracket all the way up to really 35+ we have a big gap in players, so it will definitely be a year of development,” Numurkah netball administrator Cat Elliott said.

“We had brand new courts constructed during lockdown, so our focus is to get out there and showcase them and our young talent.

“We’re also really looking forward to getting back into community sport and getting as many people back involved in netball and around the club as possible.”

Although yet to announce an official A-grade coach at the time of writing, Elliott was excited to have the opportunity to fast-track the netball prowess of the club’s budding talent.

“We’re really keen to get back into it and get back onto the court,” she said.

“We’ll get everyone back involved and have lots of young girls playing seniors for the first time.

“It will be great to shine a light on them and really make them the focus of the year.”

–TYLER MAHER COACH: TO BE DETERMINED 2019 FINISH: 13TH (2–16)

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You’ll find us here: | 5831 1800 | www.gagliardiscott.com.au We wish all the Football & Netball players best of luck for their 2021 season 52 Football and Netball 2021

MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

RUMBALARA NETBALL

FOOTBALL Familiar faces could be the key to Rumbalara’s charge back up the Murray Football League table in 2021.

Jason Traianidis returns to coach the side in a sole role as Kane Atkinson steps back to focus on playing, and has focused his recruiting on bringing former players back into the fold.

“After being so close last year to starting, doing the full pre-season and everything, everyone is just keen to play some footy,” Traianidis said.

“I had some good times with Kane co-coaching, but he’s got a bit going on with work and everything, so we’ll just let him focus on playing.

“We’ve got a few names coming in. We were obviously third-last in 2019, so we had to do something and a fair few of them are coming back to the club.”

Peter Hood, Allan Norris and Corey Wanganeen will line-up at Mercury Dve after last playing for the Fitzroy Stars, with Dylan and Nathan Kerr also back on deck.

Rex Taylor was heading elsewhere in 2020, but will stay at Rumba, while Steve Stallion is an important inclusion from fellow MFL club Cobram.

“I’m really excited about getting him across from Cobram,” Traianidis said.

“A few boys have been playing up in Darwin too, so they’re match fit.

“The break has gone a bit both ways. A few have struggled to get back into the routine of training and whatnot — myself included at times — but others have been there since day dot of pre-season again and haven’t looked back.

“The boys that are coming back to the club obviously know most of the faces already, so they’re slotting back in well, it’s a good mix of old and new.”

And when it comes to setting expectations for the looming campaign, the bar is high for Rumbalara.

“The thirds and reserves made grand finals in 2019, it’s something the club is very proud of and something the seniors want to be able to match as well,” Traianidis said.

“I know I’ll get more out of the team if they’re having fun and enjoying themselves, so that’s the aim.

“But we’re not there to make the numbers up, we’re there to go all the way.

“We know it’s going to be a lot of hard work and it’s been a positive pre-season, but premierships are won in September, so we’ve got a long way to go yet.”

FAST FACTS

JessBamblett

PeterHood

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Peter Hood, Allan Norris, Corey Wanganeen (Fitzroy Stars), Steve Stallion (Cobram), Dylan Kerr, Nathan Kerr (Deniliquin Rovers).

OUT: David Smith, Jerome Sorgel.

COACH: JASON TRAIANIDIS MFL PREMIERSHIPS: 2014 2019 FINISH: 12TH (5–13) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: ASH MILLER 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: CLAYTON MCCARTNEY (34) GROUND: MERCURY DRIVE SPORTS COMPLEX NICKNAME: RUMBA

The ability to adapt to what opposition sides throw at it will be a key cog in Rumbalara’s quest for a Murray Netball League premiership this season.

Jess Bamblett again takes the reins of the club’s A-grade outfit, and along with star player Elenoa Naimalua will bookend the court for Rumba.

The duo quinellaed the 2019 MNL bestand-fairest count, with shooter Naimalua edging out her coach and defensive rock Bamblett by seven votes.

Sisters Leah and Akanisi Seeto join the club from Northern Peninsula and can play in any position, while Natasha Atkinson-Brown will look to make an impact in attack.

“We’re looking forward to it, hopefully we do go ahead this season,” Bamblett said.

“We’ve had a couple of changes, but Elenoa is back which is great.

“Leah and Akanisi Seeto come from a good standard of netball and they can play anywhere on the court even though they’re predominantly defenders.

“It gives us a pretty versatile team which is great.

“Natasha was in the under-17s last time, she’s a really good goal shooter and is strong and tall.

“We’re all just keen to get back out there playing netball, the normality of it will be great, and we’re definitely trying to stay up in that top four.”

–TYLER MAHER COACH: JESS BAMBLETT 2019 FINISH: THIRD (18–2)

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Football and Netball 2021 53

MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

TONGALA BLUES NETBALL

FOOTBALL The Blues stunned many onlookers in 2019 when they hovered around the top four for most of the home and away season, before rolling through the finals to make it all the way to the grand final.

Their season ended at the hands of Nathalia, but the Blues made a statement.

Now, they have to back it up.

Not that it worries anyone at the Blues, with the club looking at finals as a must for the year.

“We set goals that we want to be playing finals every year,” coach Jordan Souter said.

“And we have a hell of a lot of work to do to make sure we are there at the end of the year.

“That expectation on our group has obviously lifted from where it was going into the season two years ago, so that’s something we will have to deal with.”

As will the realities of spending a year on the sidelines.

“We had a fair bit of momentum as a side going into the season last year,” Souter said.

“But that cools off pretty quickly when you have to sit out for a year.

You’re back at square one — as we all are.

“So now, as a football club, we have to build that momentum back up and fight to get back into the position we want to be in.”

Luckily for the club, the Northern Territory has provided opportunity.

“We have a couple of locals up there playing,” he said.

“So a lot of our guys have been playing football during lockdown.

There will be a period of getting everyone back together and adjusting, but that won’t be too much of a concern.

“Once we get the boys together we think we will be able to put it all together pretty quickly.

“We’ve set a goal for our club, we know what we have to do on field to get there and we will continue to put in the work to make it.”

JackMonigatti

–ANDREW JOHNSTON CameronIlett

IN: Nick Jamieson (Footscray), Jack Monigatti (Nightcliff ), Shannon Tucker (Girgarre), Matthew Tyler (Girgarre).

OUT: Tyson Di Petta (Girgarre), Stephen Phillips (Lancaster), Tim Strapp (Lancaster).

COACH: JORDAN SOUTER MFL PREMIERSHIPS: NONE 2019 FINISH: RUNNER-UP (11–7) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JACK HAMMOND 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: MAKENZIE RYAN (38) GROUND: TONGALA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: BLUES

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PLAYER CHANGES

FAST FACTS

• • • •

In 2019, Tongala went further than most had expected.

Now, with a young group with the benefit of two pre-seasons under its belt, the Blues are ready to fire for their 2021 campaign.

Coach Paige Wade said all signs from the pre-season were positive for her group.

“We have a group who just wanted to be back on the court,” Wade said.

“They want the normality that sport beings them, but also want to continue to build on the work they’ve put in.

“We had a really good season in 2019, we took a lot of really positive steps as a club and we felt like we built on that when we got back in 2020.

“The task for us, as it is for a lot of clubs, is to build on that hard work from 2020 and get better as a team.

“There’s a really good feeling around our team and what we are capable of for this year.”

• • • •

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COACH: PAIGE WADE 2019 FINISH: 10TH (7–11)

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NORTHERN COUNTRY WOMEN’S LEAGUE

KatiePollock

AshleeThorneycroft

KaylaShepherdandMollyTancred

ACTION APLENTY Friday night footy could be on the cards for Northern Country Women’s League in 2021.

League administrator Sam Wood said the competition had made “good progress” pre-COVID, and he hoped the women’s game would continue in leaps and bounds this year.

He said giving clubs flexibility was the key, with the chance to tee up games as curtain-raisers to senior men’s games or playing after them under lights was something the league was keen to explore.

Most games are scheduled for Sundays, with ground and player availability the key, but Wood said he was keen to give clubs the option to make a switch.

“We’re looking to be pretty flexible with the draw,” Wood said.

“Friday night footy is the prime stage.

“It also lets clubs give a day back to volunteers over the weekend, so it frees a Sunday up for example.”

He said building on the link to the Youth Girls’ competition was also crucial, especially with the impact of COVID-19 on recruitment yet to be determined.

56 Football and Netball 2021

– MAX STAINKAMPH

Underthestars:NCWLfootballcouldbeplayedonFridaynightsin2021

We are thrilled to bring you the 2021 Football and Netball Season We’re back !

The League is thrilled to be in a position to bring you a season of football and netball, which has been missed by us all. While there may be bumps along the road we are approaching the season with optimism. In particular we are looking forward to the first full season of Under 16 football. We genuinely appreciate the support of GOTAFE and our other loyal sponsors during a challenging 2020. Our clubs have worked hard during the off season to be ready for a season with added requirements due to COVID 19. Please respect their work on this and follow the messages which are produced below. The safer we are the greater the chance of an uninterrupted season, something we all want. We thank the McPherson Media Group for their initiative with this magazine — study up and be ready to support the team of your choice.

Bring it on !

David Roff Chairman GVL

Spectator/COVID Guidelines – Info as follows:

GOTAFE is committed to improving the and and lives Returning to training and games is a skills safe, hygienic controlled manner is paramount to the GVL. The safety of of our regional population, our communities is our number one priority. In order to be to help buildand strong, able to bring games of football netball inresilient a safe and tted to controlled manner, the league and our member clubs must communities. lls and adhere lives to the latest State Government restrictions, and

Ensure group sizes adhere to current public gathering limits Ensure you strictly observe the 1.5m social distancing requirements  You must wear a face mask if you cannot social distance, unless you have a lawful exception.  Spectators are encouraged to remain in their cars where venues Return to Play Protocols as set out by AFL Victoria and pulation, allow for vehicle access around grounds.

Netball Victoria. These include: “GOTAFE is proud to continue ng, resilient  Parents & spectators are not allowed to enter change rooms. our support as a major sponsor  If you have any of the symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), The only exception to this is if there is an emergency. however mild, you should stay seek advice ofhome, the GVL. We haveand been  Although indoor spaces like pavilions and club rooms are get tested. Symptoms include: supporting the GVL through our permitted to open, it is recommended people refrain from proud to continue ongoing sponsorship since 2011. spending lengthy periods inside for the purpose of socialising.

• fever as a major sponsor • chills We ask that spectators attending matches ensure that you are We have been • cough The GVL plays such an important role in following all current COVID restrictions and that you follow he GVL through our sore throat any directions given at games by our team of wonderful volunteers. onsorship since•2011. connecting our community through its love of • shortness local of breath Any non compliance will be reported to Victoria Police. netball and football. We understand that ortant role in • runny nose remaining connected is extremely important and By all playing our part, we can together ensure that football and through its love of or change in sense of smell or taste • loss we are committed to our continued support of our netball matches can safely continue.  

2435019 260mm w X 320mm h

We understand that remely important and ontinued support of our uring this time.”

students and community during this time.”

The GOTAFE GVL is proud to support its loyal partners and Travis Heeney CEO we | encourage you to support them too.

Darryl Twitt Motors RTO 3094

dfi www.gvleague.com.au

@GvLeague

NAB LEAGUE

JoshRachele

READY FOR SEASON LIKE NO OTHER This season will be one like no other for the NAB League.

With the competition moving from an under-18 to an under-19 competition after missing games in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, sides are having the same captains coming back and similar squads.

Murray Bushrangers talent manager Mick Wilson is greeted by familiar faces this season, with Kate Adams back to co-captain the Bushrangers’ girls side, while plenty of the boys are also returning.

58 Football and Netball 2021

“It means there are two age brackets vying to do well and be in the running for the draft,” Wilson said.

“The top two age groups are eligible and that’s the first time we’ve had that.”

The Bushrangers will now have affiliations with Collingwood’s and Richmond’s VFL and VFLW sides, too, allowing juniors to line-up in senior sides in the revamped East Coast VFL competition.

“It’s a really interesting dynamic, if they get a look at a player they’re more

likely to be interested (at the draft),” Wilson said.

He said the Bushrangers’ coaches and development sides didn’t spend much time discussing the draft itself, especially after Zavier Maher — who was touted as a top-30 pick last year — was overlooked, but said missing out in a top-age year was no longer the be-all and end-all.

“People are being drafted well past their draft year now, the way it’s evolved even up

to 23 you can get picked up in the draft,” Wilson said.

The women’s NAB League competition kicked off at the start of the AFLW season, and missing a game due to Victoria’s snap five-day lockdown in February showed the Bushrangers would still need to be flexible.

“It’ll be interesting to see the impact of COVID ... but we think this group will be resilient enough,” he said.

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SUPPORTING THE KYABRAM DISTRICT LEAGUE IN 2021

ROUND ONE

FIXTURE APRIL 10, 2021

ARDMONA v VIOLET TOWN LANCASTER v GIRGARRE TALLYGAROOPNA v MERRIGUM SHEPPARTON EAST v DOOKIE UNITED

MURCHISON-TOOLAMBA v LONGWOOD UNDERA v RUSHWORTH AVENEL v NAGAMBIE STANHOPE - BYE

KYABRAM DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

BACK ON DECK An influx of star talent and the promise of a tight ladder has supporters of Kyabram District League roaring with anticipation ahead of the 2021 season.

Shane Crawford is back at the helm of Ardmona, bringing plenty of excitement along with him, while former AFL guns Jared Brennan and Daniel Harris will headline Violet Town and Rushworth respectively.

The amount of player movements in the league has made trying to predict where clubs will finish in six months’ time almost harder than trying to pick winning lotto numbers.

All 15 clubs — especially the Towners, Avenel, Stanhope, Girgarre, Undera,MurchisonToolamba and Dookie United — have welcomed class acts in a bid to strengthen their lists.

Even though deciphering how clubs will fare is a tough task, you can be certain that fans will be treated to one of the tightest and electrifying seasons in recent years.

In the netball ranks, Stanhope has lost members from its remarkable premiers and champions season — most noticeably two-time Warren medallist Chicky Barr.

Avenel and Nagambie will be challenging for the A-grade title and expect a sharp improvement from Shepparton East.

The junior ranks of the league are also set to swell with the addition of under-12 football and under-11 netball competitions, a positive sign for the health of the league moving forward.

– AYDIN PAYNE

PAST PREMIERS

2019: Nagambie (football) and Stanhope (netball) 2018: Tallygaroopna and Nagambie 2017: Nagambie and Nagambie 2016: Nagambie and Avenel 2015: Merrigum and Nagambie 2014: Nagambie and Lancaster 2013: Murchison and Rushworth 2012: Violet Town and Nagambie 2011: Lancaster and Stanhope 2010: Nagambie and Lancaster

WARREN MEDALLISTS

PREMIERS 2019

Nagambie

2018: Chicky Barr (Stanhope) 2017: Sharni Lloyd (Nagambie) 2016: Kathryn Hard (Avenel) 2015: Renee Lea (Merrigum) 2014: Ellie Lothian (Lancaster) 2013: Sharni Lloyd (Rushworth) 2012: Gemma Barry (Nagambie) 2011: Michelle Hill (Lancaster) 2010: Sharni Lloyd (Nagambie)

MCNAMARA MEDALLISTS 2019: Kaine Herbert (Undera) 2018: Kaine Herbert (Undera) 2017: Sam Poole (Violet Town) 2016: Kasey Duncan (Avenel) 2015: Don Stirling (Avenel) 2014: Mick Shiels (Nagambie) 2013: Josh Pell (Merrigum) 2012: Russell Lee (Violet Town) 2011: Steve Thomson (Lancaster) 2010: Troy Snelson (Girgarre)

LADDER PREDICTION FOOTBALL 1: Violet Town 2: Avenel 3: Murchison-Toolamba 4: Lancaster 5: Nagambie 6: Girgarre 7: Undera 8: Stanhope 9: Tallygaroopna 10: Dookie United 11: Merrigum 12: Shepparton East 13: Rushworth 14: Longwood 15: Ardmona

NETBALL

1: Nagambie 2: Stanhope 3: Avenel 4: Shepparton East 5: Dookie United 6: Girgarre 7: Merrigum 8: Tallygaroopna 9: Violet Town 10: Rushworth 11: Undera 12: Murchison-Toolamba 13: Lancaster 14: Longwood 15: Ardmona

Stanhope

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KYABRAM DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

ARDMONA

NETBALL

The upcoming A-grade season is looking promising according to Ardmona netball co-ordinator Renee Barnett.

The long-time volunteer and club person, who has been through the hard times, said this year was looking bright for the Bush Cats.

“We are looking promising compared to recent years,” Barnett said.

“Our numbers have been great, we are still hoping to get a couple more players in the coming weeks.

“But we are prepared and ready to go.”

Sophie Winmar, who was announced as coach last year, has decided to step down due to personal reasons, but is still a chance to play.

“Mandy Corby has stepped up and will take on the coaching role this year after Soph stepped aside,” Barnett said.

“She has coached and won premierships before, so she brings a wealth of experience to the role.

“Hopefully we can win a few games this year and have a fun season.”

SophieWinmar

FOOTBALL

After the cancellation of last year’s Kyabram District League season, Shane Crawford is back on deck to help steer Ardmona into a new age.

The AFL legend — whose CV boasts a Brownlow Medal, a premiership and more than 300 games at Hawthorn — has been busy getting prepared for the 2021 campaign.

Crawford is determined to usher in a fresh change for the mighty Bush Cats, who were reinstated into the league at the end of 2019.

“Our aim for the year is to get back out there, play footy, kick some goals, create a strong club atmosphere and have a crack,” Crawford said.

“We want to keep the club going this year and beyond. Clubs like this need a bit of help to get back on their feet.

“I’m not promising flags and premierships, but I am promising a spirited team and a club that is back on track.

“We want the league to be proud of us and to prove to them that they did the right thing to reinstate us.

“And we want the other clubs and the community to go ‘wow, they’ve really pulled their finger out’.”

So how does one usher in a new era and help a side claim its first win since 2015?

Crawford has welcomed in experienced footballers who he said would help set the standard for the club’s culture.

“Cam Hall, Damien Carmody and Anthony Franchina are three really good players that you want around your club,” he said.

“I’m pumped that they are involved, they bring such good leadership. And they can’t wait to connect with the community.

“There is a bit of work to be done after what was such a crazy year.”

– AYDIN PAYNE

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Shane Crawford (Aldinga), Damien Carmody (Colbinabbin), Cameron Hall (Fitzroy Stars), Anthony Franchina (Tullamarine), Bryce Gladman (Murchison-Toolamba), Trent Corby, Frederick Maclean, OUT: Riley Dryden (Undera), Daniel Hatton (Bonnie Doon), Lachlan Steenhuis.

FAST FACTS

COACH: AMANDA CORBY 2019 FINISH: 15TH (0–16)

COACH: SHANE CRAWFORD 2019 FINISH: 15TH (0–16) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: CAINE ATKINSON 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: CAINE ATKINSON (10) GROUND: ARDMONA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: BUSH CATS

AVENEL

NETBALL

As the saying goes, you don’t win a premiership in round one.

This is a mindset Avenel is taking into its return to the court this year, but the slow and steady build doesn’t mean the Swans aren’t excited about their potential to rise up the ladder this year.

Newly-minted co-coach Bree D’Andrea, who joins returning coach Jacinta Jamison in the top job, said signs looked promising seven weeks out from the season opener.

“We’re certainly sitting in the position we planned to,” D’Andrea said.

“We’re taking each week as it comes, but it’s very exciting and it’s looking like we will be quite competitive.”

Giving D’Andrea reason to be optimistic has been a strong recruiting period — to be kept under wraps until pre-season matches kick-off — though one household name has been dropped with goal shooter Tegan Sidebottom returning to the club “as fit as ever”.

“We’ve got a versatile side and it’s been a solid pre-season, but it’s a long build-up to the start of the season,” D’Andrea said.

FAST FACTS

ShaneCrawford

“The aim is to be competitive week in and week out, and I think we have strength in all our positions, so I’m quietly confident.”

FOOTBALL

Avenel has unfinished business this year and is making no secret of its desire for finals success.

After an early elimination exit to Lancaster in 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic put last year’s plans for redemption on ice.

But with a strong recruiting class coming out of the ashes of that loss, Avenel has held its ground throughout lockdown and added even more talent to its group.

Despite the potential of a vastly different line-up come round one, the way the Swans go about their footy will not change.

“Not much has changed, we’ll just adjust a few little things which we’re rolling through match simulation to

suit the way our players play,” senior coach Kasey Duncan said.

“We have strong key position players, leg speed and skills, so we’ll look to continue to exploit our strengths.

“Ultimately the goal for us is that top two finish. Nagambie, Murchison, Violet Town are all looking good, and then Tally and Lancaster, those top six to eight teams are going to be close. It should be a really strong competition.

“But we know what the yardstick is and we’re confident we can be thereabout again.”

– MEG SAULTRY BraydonAvola

PLAYER CHANGES

Tegan NETBALL CO-COACHES: JACINTA JAMISON AND BREE D’ANDREA 2019 FINISH: 11TH (6–10)

IN: Wayne Pavitt (Port Douglas, AFL Cairns), Josh Aiken (Shepparton), Jak Hancock (Chelsea Heights), Ryland Head (Trentham), Dominic Russo, Bailey Clarke, Max McLean, Jake Anderson, Max Jones, Tom Martin, Jordan Zuccula (Seymour), Max Lawrence (Bonnie Doon), Todd Lawrence (Harrow-Balmoral), Hayden Heta (Rennie), Jack Smith (Benalla All Blacks), Andrew Dowling (Lower Plenty), Tom Gurkin (Daylesford), Jeremy Meek, John Green.

OUT: Garrett Davies, Michael Tinkler, Sam Durnan, Angus Durnan.

FOOTBALL COACH: KASEY DUNCAN 2019 FINISH: FIFTH (14–3) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: BRAYDON AVOLA 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: KASEY DUNCAN (58) GROUND: AVENEL RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: SWANS

Football and Netball 2021 61

KYABRAM DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

DOOKIE UNITED NETBALL

Like most of its rivals, Dookie United won’t resemble the team it was in 2019 when it finished runner-up to Stanhope.

But despite a natural turnover of players, A-grade coach Maddison Owen — who gets her first chance to lead after last season’s failed start — remains confident the Thunder can still make a bang this year.

“We need to fine-tune our teams, but we are hoping to be as competitive and successful as we can,” Owen said.

Perhaps the biggest loss to the Thunder’s A-grade line-up is that of defender Laura Henderson, who has moved on to another club, though this opens the doors for others to step through.

“We’ve got the same base, along with a couple of new ins, so we’re hoping they can have a good season with us,” Owen said.

“We’re getting into it slowly, but the mood has been positive.

“We’re focusing on our fitness, especially with that season off, as well as getting our new combos back working together.”

FAST FACTS

When asked what style of game she wanted Dookie to be known for this year, Owen said it would be all about consistency.

“We want to start games nice and strong and play consistent and clean netball,” Owen said.

FOOTBALL

With round one just around the corner, Dookie United looks to be well positioned in its quest to return to finals this year.

Dropping out of the top six in 2019 after its first finals win in the Kyabram District League in 2018, the Thunder are hoping to boomerang back into the mix when football returns.

With a solid playing group back on the park, leading the charge in his first season at the club is senior coach Daniel Burness, a former coach at Picola District Football league club Katunga.

“Training has been going really well since late last year and we’re getting good numbers on the track,” club president Luke O’Connor said.

“Dan has been really good — it’s nice to have a fresh face around and the guys have responded well to him.”

And although a return to finals footy is the desired destination for the Thunder, O’Connor said a rise up the ranks would ultimately come down to the team’s improvement week-to-week.

“You never go into a season not aiming to make finals,” O’Connor said.

“But this season it’s difficult to predict where teams are at, so we’ll focus on ourselves and do everything in our control so we can perform on the day.”

– MEG SAULTRY

PLAYER CHANGES

MonicaKelly NETBALL COACH: MADDISON OWEN 2019 FINISH: RUNNER-UP (16-3)

IN: Lenny O’Sullivan, Will Patone, Andy O’Connor OUT: Nil

LukeO’Connor

FOOTBALL COACH: DANIEL BURNESS 2019 FINISH: 10TH (5–11) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: PAT MCMULLAN 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: BEN KELLY (30) GROUND: DOOKIE RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: THUNDER

GIRGARRE NETBALL

FOOTBALL

While the COVID-19 pandemic took its toll in 2020, Girgarre’s netballers were not going to let their work be undone.

“We have a really close group,” coach Abby Pettifer said.

“And we were able to really stick together last year through everything that happened. It was a whirlwind of a year last year and that worried me, but we’ve kept the group together and are now working for the new season.

“Their relationships, the teamwork is still together and I think that is key.”

Pettifer said there was a great feeling around the club.

“We felt really good about last season, and that feeling has carried over,” she said.

“We’re continuing to put the work in, we have a lot of confidence as a group and hopefully that work helps drive us to a great position for this season.”

Little has changed in the off-season for Girgarre.

Billy Barnes will finally get to take leadership of the club, his team of Wayne Deledio, Nick Mellington, Angus McDonald and Brendan Baumann will still be on the sidelines, and a number of recruits will be back.

And the feeling remains something special is brewing for 2021.

“There was a really good feeling around the group last year,” Barnes said.

“And I think it will be relatively easy to get that back. Our expectations and feeling about the season came from our hard work and from our values as a football club.

“Last year a big thing we did was speak to the group and ask what they wanted to get out of the season, what they valued about our club and what they saw as their goal, and that hasn’t changed.

“From the day the players came back for the start of pre-season all the way through, their attitudes have been right,

they’ve put the work in just like they did a year ago.”

With the club in a two-decade finals drought at senior level, the hopes are high.

“That’s where we want to be,” Barnes said.

“It’s what you play football for and it’s something we will set out as our goal for the year.”

– ANDREW JOHNSTON

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Mitch Smith (Kyabram), Byron Dryden (Dalyston), Jordan Clarke (Old Scotch), Sam Neil (Old Scotch), Tyson DiPetta (Tongala), Jacob McNicol (Craigieburn), Damien Wynd (Warrnambool) OUT: Shannon Tucker (Tongala) KylieWaddingham

FAST FACTS

62 Football and Netball 2021

NETBALL COACH: ABBY PETTIFER 2019 FINISH: NINTH (7-9)

RyanButler FOOTBALL COACH: BILLY BARNES 2019 FINISH: NINTH (8–8) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: BILLY BARNES 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: RYAN BUTLER (50) GROUND: GIRGARRE RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: KANGAROOS

KYABRAM DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

LANCASTER

NETBALL

While you are always looking for success, sometimes it helps to look to the future.

Lancaster will head into this season with a young squad that is looking to the future as much as it is to the present.

Newly-appointed coach Jo McCready said while the group was young, there was no reason not to aim for the six.

“We are always aiming for finals,” McCready said.

“And that’s the way you should play, not putting limitations on what you are able to do as a side.

“But at the same time we know we have a young group, and that is going to be big for us in the future. But for now, we are simply aiming for playing our best netball.”

FOOTBALL

With success, comes expectation.

After finishing fifth on the ladder in 2019, Lancaster was the surprise packet of the finals, making it through to the prelim.

It didn’t come as a shock to those inside the four walls of the club and has only built up confidence for the Wombats that a big season is coming.

“Things have been really positive,” coach Corey Carver.

“We were primed to go for last season and it hasn’t taken all that long into this season to get back into that position.

“There is a great feeling around the group and the players are driving one another to achieve.

“The group walked away from 2019 with the knowledge of what they were capable of. They saw how well they could play and what they could achieve and I think that has motivated the group to go further.”

And Carver said a year off had further strengthened that resolve.

“We want to continue on that path,” he said.

“We have a great group, we’ve set ourselves goals for the season that we can build towards and we are back to that positive vibe.

“We have strong standards as a club and we will continue to push ourselves forward as a club. That expectation that we can go further should be there, if you want to play footy you want to be playing at the pointy end of the season.”

– ANDREW JOHNSTON

JamesRoss

PLAYER CHANGES

JoMcCready

FAST FACTS

COACH: JO MCCREADY 2019 FINISH: 10TH (6–10)

LONGWOOD

NETBALL

With the second year of her Longwood A-grade coaching stint just around the corner, Meg Pellegrino is excited about the campaign ahead.

“It’s exciting to come into my second year undefeated,” Pellegrino said with a laugh.

“No, in all seriousness, myself and the rest of the players are really excited to get out there after a long year off.

“Everyone has worked hard on their fitness and I’m really impressed with how they are moving at the moment.

“We haven’t picked our sides yet, but we have had some great numbers at training and we have got some new faces in the pipeline.

“We’re always reaching out for new players, we always welcome any new players who are wanting to play a game and meet new people.”

The Redlegs have made some changes for the upcoming season, with gun talent Elyse Oeser set to lead the A-grade side as captain.

FAST FACTS

Oeser will also act as netball co-ordinator.

Meanwhile, A-grade regular Toni Watson will move into a netball manager role during the season due to pregnancy.

IN: Charlie McLay (Echuca United), Phil Carroll (Nathalia), Jordan Hageman (Rushworth), Nick Casey (Marrar), Tom Schumann (Monash Blues) OUT: Tannar Cerrone (Elmore), Luke Donnell (Kyabram) COACH: COREY CARVER 2019 FINISH: THIRD (11–8) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: ZAC CERRON 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: BILLY RYAN (62) GROUND: LANCASTER RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: WOMBATS

FOOTBALL

There is one word that Mick Galvin used when assessing his team’s goals for the upcoming season.

Growth.

The senior mentor, back for a third year at the Redlegs, is a big believer of growing the club on and off the field in 2021.

“Our focus is growth at Longwood,” Galvin said.

“We won one game in 2019 and so if we can better that then we are going in the right direction.

“We want to get Longy back on the map and make it a really enjoyable place to play.

We are keeping it really positive and I think Ricki (Shiner) has done an awesome job in creating a terrific atmosphere here.”

And as much as Galvin is a teacher, he is also a realist.

The Longwood leader understands where the senior list is coming from.

“Again, it’s going to be a development year,” he said.

“Win, lose or draw it doesn’t matter.

“We have got some exciting young players and it’s just going to be a season where we try and get some experience into them.”

The Redlegs have been busy in the off-season with recruiting and have snared a plethora of talent.

Big forward Tom Rennie joins the club from Tatura, while brothers Josh and Ryan Cumberland add pace and size respectively.

Former player Mitch Van De Duim is back, and former juniors Shaun Bridges and Dylan Quattrocchi have returned after spending the past couple of seasons away.

MickGalvin

– AYDIN PAYNE

PLAYER CHANGES

MegPellegrino COACH: MEG PELLEGRINO 2019 FINISH: 14TH (1–15)

IN: Josh Cumberland (Mathoura), Ryan Cumberland (Wallan), Tom Rennie (Tatura), Trey Frazer (Broadford), Mitch Van De Duim (Laurimar), Trent Cox, Alexander Edmunds (Glenroy), Seth Galvin (Eaglehawk), Gianni Serra (Stanhope), Alex Crnko (Wallan), Shaun Bridges, Dylan Quattrocchi OUT: Julian Ross, Rob Mullen, Jarod Coco COACH: MICK GALVIN 2019 FINISH: 14TH (1–1–14) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: NATHAN WATSON 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: KOBE GALVIN (13) GROUND: LONGWOOD RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: REDLEGS

Football and Netball 2021 63

KYABRAM DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

MERRIGUM

NETBALL

Merrigum has plenty of reasons to get excited about what is ahead in the new Kyabram District League season.

With new netball courts on the way, the Bulldogs are looking to build on their sixth-placed finish from 2019.

Under the guidance of Olivia Jackson, the club is hopeful of moving into premiership contention in 2021.

“There is a great feeling around our group at the moment,” Jackson said.

“All of our teams are looking strong and the numbers at training has been

terrific. I think the new facilities are going to go a long way to making us a stronger outfit.

“It’s no secret we want to play finals and I think we’ve got the talent to get us there.”

While Jackson won’t take to the court herself as she continues to recover from a knee injury, Zara Kerr has made the move from Shepparton United.

“We’ve got a good mix of youth and experienced players,” she said.

FOOTBALL

Merrigum has been knocking on the door of the Kyabram District League top six for several years, but now it’s ready to burst through it.

Under the watchful eye of coach Steve Lawlor, who coached the club’s successful reserves side in 2017 before taking on the senior role, the Bulldogs are ready to make their mark on the competition.

Club president Greg Pell said Lawlor and his troops would be happy to continue to fly under the radar.

“We’re quietly confident about what we’re building towards,” Pell said.

“We’ve had good numbers on the track at pre-season training and you can sense the excitement growing with each passing week.

“I think we’re going to see a really competitive season where a lot of teams are going to be vying for positions in the middle of the ladder.

“It’s a cliché, but those eight-point games are going to be crucial. If we are able to win those it will go a long way to helping set our year up.”

On the recruiting front, the Bulldogs haven’t been galivanting about.

And that’s the best way to go about it according to Pell.

“Having a local person in charge makes a massive difference,” he said.

“It goes a long way to helping build relationships which only helps us to become stronger as a club.

“We’ve got a good mix of youth and experience. We want to be building from within to help us create sustained success.”

– BRAYDEN MAY

PLAYER CHANGES LivJackson

FAST FACTS

COACH: OLIVIA JACKSON 2019 FINISH: SIXTH (9–8)

IN: Daniel Dryden (Undera) OUT: Ryan Mangan

DavidMatthews

COACH: STEVE LAWLOR 2019 FINISH: EIGHTH (9–7) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JACK SINCLAIR 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: JOSH SMITH (51) GROUND: MERRIGUM RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: BULLDOGS

MURCHISON-TOOLAMBA NETBALL

Finals in all formats.

That is what Murchison-Toolamba’s A-grade coach Jenni McCluskey expects from her playing group this season.

“Currently we are working really hard on our fitness, and as the season comes closer, we’ll be focusing on team systems rather than individual work,” McCluskey said.

“Our aim for 2021 is to reach finals in all our grade levels.”

The former Mooroopna mentor, who was set to lead in 2020, knows exactly what Grasshoppers are capable of.

“It was coming together beautifully last year, so I’m hoping we can pick up where we left off,” she said.

“The majority of girls selected for A-grade last year are returning, so that’s promising.”

Retaining senior talent is important.

Building for the future is imperative.

And according to McCluskey, the Hoppers have zero problems in both departments.

“We have a lot of talented under-17s coming through the ranks who will likely play seniors, so that is exciting.

Overall, I’m pretty happy with where we are sitting at the moment.”

FOOTBALL

A list of additions any Kyabram District League outfit would drool over has Murchison-Toolamba supercharged for the season ahead.

Hauling back stars in abundance to the twin towns leaves club president Craig Thompson quietly confident heading towards the first bounce.

“The mood is really good at the moment; we have a committed local group keen for success in 2021,” Thompson said.

“We had a great recruiting drive in 2020 and we’ve added a few more for this season.

“We’re expecting big things out of our seniors and reserves this year.”

The Hoppers have added Goulburn Valley League talent in hard-running defender Josh Wild from Shepparton Swans as well as luring Shepparton

premiership player Jordan McGregor back home.

“We are expecting big things from former Hopper Jordy McGregor and Josh Wild is super fit,” Thompson said.

“We also have the son of 200-gamer Peter Barnard in John Barnard, who has brought his friend Leighroy Wellington with him.”

Retaining its 2020 signings, which include a quartet of Euroa footballers, only bolsters Murchison-Toolamba’s existing playing list.

The recruitment process has been backed up by a nod to youth, with Thompson mentioning their prospects vying for a senior gig would supplement the hotly-contested intra-club atmosphere in 2021.

“We are looking for big things out of our thirds graduates, especially Aaron Miller,

Brent Jones, Nick Watt and Connor Guy-Smith,” he said.

“It is going to create selection pressure which is always great to have.”

PLAYER CHANGES

HeidiMerritt

FAST FACTS

64 Football and Netball 2021

COACH: JENNI MCCLUSKEY 2019 FINISH: FIFTH (11–6)

– LIAM NASH

JordanMcGregor

IN: James Ivill, Klay Giovannini, Brad Gleeson, Rob Wilson (Euroa), Stephen Burns (Shepparton East), Jordan McGregor (Shepparton), Leighroy Wellington (Rupertswood), John Barnard (Rupertswood), Josh Wild (Shepparton Swans), Brayden McGregor, Tom Durward, Xavier Dwyer OUT: Dylan Moncur (Undera), Luke Armstrong (Congupna), Mitchell Tricarico (Dampier Sharks), Chris Oliver (retired) COACH: NICK IORIANNI 2019 FINISH: FOURTH (12–4) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: LUKE CECCHIN 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: JAMES MILNE (57) GROUND: MURCHISON RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: GRASSHOPPERS

KYABRAM DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

NAGAMBIE

NETBALL

With a large turnover of players during the hiatus, Nagambie will sport a vastly different line-up to what it did in 2019.

And although new A-grade coach Katie Sullivan, who is no stranger at the club, is confident the team will remain competitive, her main aim this year has shifted to getting the girls excited about playing netball again.

“My major focus taking these trainings is to get that enjoyment of sport and netball back,” Sullivan said.

“Nagambie has been so successful, but there comes a time where you potentially lose that playing group.

“Our focus is development, especially having a season off, and enjoying ourselves.

“We’ll always be competitive and there is certainly that drive for success, but that would be a bonus.”

Remaining at the club alongside Sullivan is Sharni Lloyd and Alice White, which means there should be an experienced player in each of the thirds.

They will be joined by some fresh faces, along with several former juniors

FAST FACTS

who will make the jump to seniors permanently.

“A large number of those under-17s who missed last year have come up to seniors. Youth is making up the majority of our sides,” Sullivan said.

“And it’s not just having that set A-grade side — girls have a real opportunity to train and show their capabilities.”

SharniLloyd COACH: KATIE SULLIVAN 2019 FINISH: THIRD (14–5)

RUSHWORTH

NETBALL

There has been a change in the A-grade netball coaching ranks at Rushworth.

Newcomer Sarah West takes over the reins from Nicky Chillingsworth for what will be her first crack at coaching a senior outfit.

The former Stanhope and Rochester netballer said she was ready for the upcoming campaign as playing coach.

“This is my first year coaching and I’m up for the challenge. I can’t wait to start,” West said.

“Ultimately you strive for finals, but my first goal is to improve on where we finished in 2019.

“As well as making sure the girls enjoy their netball and grow as players at the same time.”

The Tigers will boast Kayla Shepherd, Kristy Thomas and 2013 A-grade premiership player Katrina Ogden in their line-up for 2021.

“We have had some players return from maternity time off and we have retained the core group from 2019 which is great,” West said.

“We’ve got some young guys coming through the thirds, Nick Smidt, Will Dalton, Trent Gladwin, they’re pretty important to the club, and very good players at such a young age,” Sullivan said.

– MEG SAULTRY

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Mat Waterson (Maiden Gully), Matt Martin (Seymour), Patrick Rattray (Seville), Nicholas Waterson, Callum Tardrew OUT: Bryce Fleming, Kaiden Pierce, David Price

AnthonyHaysom

CO-COACHES: LINC SULLIVAN AND DARRYL HARRISON 2019 FINISH: PREMIER (17–1) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: BLAKE FOTHERGILL 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: ANTHONY HAYSOM (49) GROUND: NAGAMBIE RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: LAKERS

FOOTBALL

Rushworth has pulled off a major coup ahead of the Kyabram District League season.

The Tigers will welcome home ex-AFL footballer Daniel Harris for the upcoming campaign.

The former North Melbourne and Gold Coast Suns midfielder will don the colours he wore as a junior which will no doubt bring plenty of buzz to Ironbark Stadium.

“We are rapt to have Daniel come back and play this season,” Rushworth coach Brett Pateman said.

“He’s pretty keen to play as many games as possible. He’ll be able to find his own footy and he’ll be great for the entire league which is exciting.”

Along with Harris, the Tigers have brought in gun VAFA talents, Ed Bourke and Jackson Doyle, along with

Kieran Malone, Jayden Smith, Dylan Kromek and Broady Blackley-Dow. Pateman said he was excited to bring those talents in which would complement the side’s star players Isaiah Johnson and Taulua Vave.

“We are hoping to have a strong year on the field,” he said.

“We have a couple of new faces and we have retained both Isaiah and Taulua, who both won our best-and-fairest and goalkicking awards which was important.

“Hopefully we can really push sides and be a competitive team to play against.”

– AYDIN PAYNE DanielHarris

PLAYER CHANGES

KatrinaOgden

FAST FACTS

FOOTBALL

There is no doubt Nagambie will head into a new football season as the team to beat.

A perennial powerhouse in the competition, the long-term stability of its program continues to be the envy of all others.

Even with a change within the coaching ranks after a successful premiership run in 2019 under Anthony Haysom, not much continues to change around the club.

Returning co-coach Linc Sullivan has led Nagambie to multiple senior premierships, while his counterpart Darryl Harrison has an extensive coaching background after crossing to the club in 2018.

And with Haysom remaining to lead the Lakers’ crop of players on-field, the move arguably strengthens an already impenetrable team.

“We’ll stick with a similar sort of game plan and our main structures. Obviously there is a few different midfielders to put in at stoppage set-ups, but overall it’s pretty much the same sort of system-based footy,” Sullivan said.

With Nagambie striving to extend its domination across the ranks, Sullivan said the club would continue to look to its next generation of talent to take the step up to seniors this year.

COACH: SARAH WEST 2019 FINISH: 12TH (5–11)

IN: Daniel Harris (North Heidelberg), Jackson Doyle, Ed Burke (St Kevin’s Old Boys), Kieran Malone (Eltham), Broady Blackley-Dow, Jak McMillan (Mooroopna), Dylan Kromek (North Sunshine), Jayden Smith, Shayne Lynch (Waaia), Matt Bricknell OUT: Jordan Hageman (Lancaster), Sheldon Daye COACH: BRETT PATEMAN 2019 FINISH: 12TH (4–1–11) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: TAULUA VAVE 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: ISAIAH JOHNSON (47) GROUND: IRONBARK STADIUM NICKNAME: TIGERS

Football and Netball 2021 65

KYABRAM DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

SHEPPARTON EAST NETBALL

After missing netball in 2020, Shepparton East still hasn’t played consecutive years in the same league since its 2016 and 2017 campaigns in the Picola District league.

It means the consistency its A-grade netballers are craving remains lacking as they approach the new season, looking to build on an 8-8 return from 2019.

Erynn Hueston will again coach the side, and former Undera coach Amy

Reid will slot in up front to lead the line and provide class and experience in the goal ring.

Hueston expected the club’s 17-and-under talents, who finished fourth in 2019, would step up and provide depth in the senior grades.

“We’re aiming for finals and we want to try and push the top sides,” she said.

“But it’s just as much about trying to develop for the next two or three years.”

FOOTBALL

In its second season in Kyabram District League, Shepparton East’s core objective remains building a foundation from which to push forward.

The Eagles’ first campaign in their new home had them net five wins, but with a strong contingent of former players returning to the nest, new coach Duane Hueston is hopeful the side can show it is not to be messed with.

And the future may well be bright at Central Park, with the club’s under-18s reaching the grand final in 2019, although they ultimately fell to Lancaster in the decider.

“There’s at least five of the grand final side that have been consistently training with us through pre-season, a couple of those are still eligible for thirds as well,” Hueston said.

The Eagles welcome a number of players

from surrounding clubs, including Shepparton Swans duo Hysen Ismet and Dean Johnson and Stanhope pair Brandon Corish and Jamie Spencer, who had been scheduled to join the side for the 2020 season.

Notable departures include the impressive Darby Innes-Irons to Queensland, while leading goal-kicker Anthony Tautala has headed to Katunga.

“Basically our recruiting has been about getting Shepparton East people back to the club, one-pointers who can be quality senior footballers,” Hueston said.

“We’ve identified we’re coming from a long way back, we need to put in place a foundation to be competitive and push forward from there. The quicker a team gets to the top of the ladder, often the quicker they fall back down.”

BrandonCorish

– ALEX MITCHELL

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Brandon Corish, Jamie Spencer (Stanhope), Hysen Ismet, Dean Johnson (Shepparton Swans), Adam Serafini, Kane Handley (Tallygaroopna), Angus Sutherland (Shepparton United), Joey Perkovic.

OUT: Darby Innes-Irons, Jai Simmie, Anthony Tautala.

BridgetHuffer

FAST FACTS

NETBALL COACH: ERRYN HUESTON 2019 FINISH: SEVENTH (8-8)

STANHOPE NETBALL

It’s been reigning premier for more than a year, but Stanhope is not dwelling on past success.

It will be a new-look line-up for the Lions this season, with new coach Jamieson Young saying the club has seen a turnover of players.

“We’ve had a few of our juniors graduate into senior netball, and we’ve seen a few changes at the senior level too,” she said.

“So we are looking at the long-term of the club, there is a lot of talent who are hopefully going to be here for a long time and that will help us to build.”

Though the grand final has far from disappeared from the minds of the club.

“We still have a number of players who have been around for a long time

and were a part of the premiership,” she said.

“And the feeling of the grand final is still here for us. There is the desire to keep winning and an aim to be there again at the end of this season, so we will be giving our all to get back there again.”

JamiesonYoung

FOOTBALL COACH: DUANE HUESTON 2019 FINISH: 11TH (5-11) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JEROMY AYNSLEY 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: ANTHONY TAUTALA (29) GROUND: CENTRAL PARK NICKNAME: EAGLES

FOOTBALL

Stanhope’s 2019 wouldn’t be a down year for most clubs.

But by its own standards, finishing fifth might seem like one to a club that is always aiming for a flag.

So the challenge for the Lions this year is to push their way back to contention and to claim some more silverware.

Co-coach Mark Patten said the club was hard at work to get back.

“We were probably down on numbers a bit to start 2020,” Patten said.

“Training didn’t have the same energy and we were a bit stale. But that’s not the feeling I get this year. Everyone has had the year off, so they are desperate to go again.”

While they will be striving to be back in the contention for the flag, Patten said he was just happy his players got an

opportunity again.

“From the top down we want everyone to enjoy their footy,” he said.

“It’s been a long layoff, people have been desperate to play and I think that will drive them to play their best football all season.

“We’ve been a driven lot over the years, we’ve had relative success, but have possibly fallen a bit short of where we want to be.

“So this year we want to continue to push ourselves as a whole club and play the best football we are capable of.”

– ANDREW JOHNSTON

FalconTaurua

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Josh Dickerson (Mordialloc), Luke Mann (Huntly), Jye Patten (Colbinabbin), Lachlan Armstrong (Rumbalara), Lukas Hanslow (Kyabram), Luke Smailes (Diggers Rest), Chris Sanders, Jack Steele, Mitch McMullan, David Smith.

OUT: Cobey Aynsley, Brandon Corish, Jamie Spencer (Shepparton East), Sam Woodward (Congupna), Drew Haebich, Brayden Kerans.

FAST FACTS

66 Football and Netball 2021

NETBALL COACH: JAMIESON YOUNG 2019 FINISH: PREMIER (18-0)

FOOTBALL COACH: MARK PATTEN AND DENIS GRINTON 2019 FINISH: FIFTH (11-7) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: ALEC YOUNG 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: BRAYDON KEARNS (46) GROUND: GILL COCHRANE OVAL NICKNAME: LIONS

KYABRAM DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

TALLYGAROOPNA NETBALL

Tallygaroopna A-grade coach Fiona Down has been left amazed at the effort of her netball brigade over the summer months.

As players return from the year off, Down revealed her players had put in the hard yards in preparation for the upcoming season.

“Everyone has done an amazing job, I’m quite surprised their skills haven’t dropped after a year off playing,” Down said.

“Everyone has had a bit of a taste of netball now and they’re excited for the season to start.

“We haven’t done too much physical stuff, it’s more been getting back out on the court and getting a feel for playing netball again.

“And our numbers have been steady, we have some new faces at training, but we have a couple of players taking the year off.”

The Kyabram District League B-grade premiership coach will occupy the coaching role on her own in 2021.

Down will handle the reins of the senior outfit after former co-coach Georgia Sidebottom stepped down last year.

FAST FACTS

FionaDown

Undera will look to blood its emerging netball stars for the upcoming Kyabram District League A-grade campaign.

The Lions will be an energised outfit in 2021 as they enter a new era under first-year mentor Kerri Ford.

“We are a fairly young crew, but it’s exciting for the club,” Ford said.

“We have plenty of girls coming out of 17s that will step up and the oldest player on our side would be around 25–26.

“It gives us the opportunity to blood the youth and plan for the future.

The first-year coach said he could not wait to get stuck into the challenge.

“That’s right, 100 per cent I can’t wait to start,” Kirchen said.

“It’s going to be a good challenge, but one that I’m really looking forward too.”

Tallygaroopna will be out to maintain its run of finals appearances in 2021, however, the 2019 grand finalist must do so without a string of players.

The club’s 2018 premiership players Tyson Sidebottom, Tim Karolidis, Sam Muggleton, Adam Serafini and former captain Kane Handley have all departed.

However, don’t expect the Redlegs to drop far down the ladder.

Among those boosting the club’s ranks are Mark Ryan, Matt Toohey and forwards Joel Kimberley and Troy Poynton.

– AYDIN PAYNE

MarkRyan

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Mark Ryan (Picola United), Nathan Kerr (Deniliquin Rovers), Joel Kimberley, Troy Poynton, Matt Toohey OUT: Tim Karolidis, Alex Tattersall (Mooroopna), Sam Muggleton (Dookie United), Beau Caia (Shepparton United), Aidan Lloyd, Adam Serafini, Kane Handley (Shepparton East), Tyson Sidebottom (Strathmerton) COACH: FIONA DOWN 2019 FINISH: FOURTH (14-4)

UNDERA

NETBALL

FOOTBALL

After almost 18 months without any district football, Tallygaroopna’s newest senior coach Daniel Kirchen understands how important it will be for everyone to enjoy the upcoming season.

Kirchen highlighted the focus at the Redlegs ahead of the Kyabram District League return in April.

“My aim is to just get the group together and have a bit of fun and enjoy our footy,” Kirchen said.

“After the year everyone has had, it’s important that we enjoy playing football and hopefully wins come with it.

“We’re rolling along okay at the moment. Numbers at training have been good and everyone’s having a bit of fun and keen to play.”

Kirchen, who has coached Blighty, Tocumwal and Mulwala, has landed at the Redlegs after the departure of 2018 premiership coach Kevin O’Donoghue.

This isn’t a one-year plan, it’s more a two-three-year one.”

The Lions will be without former coach Amy Reid, who has departed for Shepparton East.

But Ford said she expected talented defender Jaidyn Mitchell and experienced midcourter Steph Barber to lead from the front and mentor young guns Hannah Watt and Breanna Edwards.

“Amy is a big loss, but we still have got some experienced players that will help our great young talents that are coming through,” she said.

COACH: DANIEL KIRCHEN 2019 FINISH: RUNNER-UP (16–3) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: TYSON SIDEBOTTOM 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: JAI UTIGER (52) GROUND: TALLYGAROOPNA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: REDLEGS

FOOTBALL

Incoming Undera senior football coach Darron Batties has a message for the rest of the Kyabram District League competition.

Expect a different team to the one that missed out on finals action in 2019 due to percentage.

The Lions have witnessed a string of players depart since the end of that narrow season, most noticeably two-time league best-and-fairest winner Kaine Herbert.

However, Undera has welcomed a host of gun talent and that should have it contend again in 2021.

“We’ll be a pretty different team to the one people saw a few years ago,” Batties said.

“We have lost four players from our top-10 in 2019, but we have recruited well and picked up over half-dozen new faces.

“We have brought in Mitch White, a big full-back, as well as midfielder Matt

Turner, forward Ryan Harrington and Dave Zeitsman from the VAFA. “Losing Kaine (Herbert) hurts, but that might open the door now for someone else to step up which is a good opportunity.”

Batties — an experienced and established mentor — was an assistant coach with Werribee and last coached Werribee Districts in the WRFL. The new mentor said he hoped to deliver Undera’s faithful supporters a taste of finals football this year.

“Our expectation is to be better than what we were in 2019,” Batties said.

“The club just missed finals that year and it would be great to be able to deliver the supporters and volunteers finals football — which they haven’t experienced since 2009.

“Fingers crossed we can get a season in.”

– AYDIN PAYNE

RhysMcKenzie

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Dave Zeitsman (Old Scotch), Matt Turner (Point Cook Centrals), Ryan Harrington (Werribee Districts), Mitch White, Nathan Kenyon (Anakie), Dylan Moncur (Murchison-Toolamba), Henry Wedding (Mooroopna), Joel Stephens (Tongala) OUT: Kaine Herbert (Kyabram), Shannon Hockey (travel), Brenton Campbell (year off ), Tom Durward (Murchison-Toolamba), Zac Brian

JaidynMitchell

FAST FACTS

COACH: KERRI FORD 2019 FINISH: EIGHTH (7-9)

COACH: DARRON BATTIES 2019 FINISH: SEVENTH (9–7) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: KAINE HERBERT 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: BRENTON CAMPBELL (52) GROUND: UNDERA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: LIONS

Football and Netball 2021 67

KYABRAM DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

VIOLET TOWN NETBALL

Violet Town hasn’t shied away from the fact it is smack-bang in the middle of a rebuild.

With almost all of its A-grade team moving on after the 2019 season, the Towners were working upwards from ground zero ahead of their 2020 season.

But with an extra 12 months up their sleeves, the club made significant strides last year, the biggest its appointment of senior coaches, Abbie Ellis and Kolby Wild.

The pair brings considerable experience to the club, shifting over from Shepparton Swans in the Goulburn Valley League, while

its complementary on-court postings — GA and GD — will be crucial to building a team around.

Ellis said she was looking forward to bringing her experience from Shepparton back to Violet Town, and hoped to build a fun and enjoyable environment for its netballers.

“I learnt a lot when I was there, so hopefully we can pass some things down to the girls and the junior grades as well,” Ellis said.

“We’re just hoping to be competitive this year and make sure the girls have fun — and if we can be in it at finals time that would be amazing.”

FOOTBALL

Violet Town shapes as one of the most intriguing entities in Kyabram District League this year.

Last year’s aborted season had supporters deprived of an opportunity to watch the fruit of new coach Joel Price’s early labour.

But as hype builds around the Towners’ playing list, Price continues to pour cold water on outside expectations, insisting the club has a large task ahead of it this year.

“We’re coming from a long way back, so we’re under no illusions it is going to have

IN: Jared Brennan, Joel Price (Henty), Harry Sleigh (Old Geelong), Brian Durbidge (Afl Cairns), Peter Mckay (Inglewood), Josh Mellington (Echuca United), Nick Brazil, Fintan Brazil (Murrumbeena), Zach Berthun (Sandhurst), Lachlan Baldwin (Congupna), Tom Cosgriff (Shepp United), Ollie Ford (Finley).

OUT: Jett Bewick (Afl Cairns), Jack Cripps (Gfl).

NETBALL COACHES: ABBIE ELLIS AND KOLBY WIDS 2019 FINISH: 13TH (4–12)

forwards, the Towners now have the building blocks they need to challenge teams on the scoreboard.

“Certainly we’ll look to play an attacking style of footy wth Josh up forward, but we also have some dangerous forwards around him to bring the ball down to. We want to get the ball up to them as quick as we can,” Price said.

The club will also look to celebrate its 125th anniversary this year, which was put on hold due to restrictions in 2020.

– MEG SAULTRY

PLAYER CHANGES

AbbieEllisandKolbyWild

FAST FACTS

to be a big step to catch up to those top teams,” Price said.

“Our main goal is to make finals and improve on our previous couple of seasons.

Hopefully we can win some early games which should set us up well for playing finals.”

Among the biggest coups for the Towners is former AFL utility Jared Brennan’s continued commitment to the club, as well as the homecoming of a past club junior and goal-kicking powerhouse, Josh Mellington.

And with Price further populating the 50 m arch with a fleet of incoming small

JoshMellington

FOOTBALL COACH: JOEL PRICE 2019 FINISH: 13TH (3–13) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: MATT MCCARTY 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: MATT MCCARTY (30) GROUND: VIOLET TOWN RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: TOWNERS

Damian DRUM MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR NICHOLLS

HOW GOOD IS IT TO HAVE LOCAL FOOTY AND NETBALL BACK IN 2021?

After a year in which there was sadly not a ball bounced or goal shot in any local leagues across the Goulburn Valley, I’m thrilled that players can again return to the football field and netball court, and fans can go and support their team once again.

And remember, a ball would never be bounced if it were not for all the volunteers who work hard behind the scenes each and every week – so a huge thank you to them. I look forward to continuing to advocate for the Nicholls electorate in 2021.

With Nathan Pell from Merrigum Football Netball Club in September 2020 when I announced the club would get new netball courts.

Contact my office for assistance with any Federal Government matters.

426 Wyndham Street, Shepparton VIC 3630 damian.drum.mp@aph.gov.au

damiandrum.com.au

DamianDrumMP

03 5821 5371

Authorised by D. Drum, National Party of Australia, 426 Wyndham Street, Shepparton VIC 3630.

68 Football and Netball 2021

DISTRICT FOOTBALL AND NETBALL

OVENS AND KING FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE BENALLA ALL BLACKS

A fresh coaching look at Benalla All Blacks heralds new beginnings for their netball program, as a return to finals action looms large for the Panthers.

With plenty of enthusiasm around the clubhouse, incoming A-grade coach Sam Bochtler said a big focus in pre-season had been on bringing its senior teams together to resemble one big playing squad.

“We’ve had great turnouts for our senior sides and everyone has been really keen and enthusiastic and putting in the effort to work on their fitness,” Bochtler said.

“All three senior teams are training together and we’re also trying to do a few things outside netball, such as organising a big hike or a lunch, so everyone is included and welcomed and we can start to click.”

One player set to make a big impact in her first year at Friendlies Oval is Elizabeth Fuhrmeister, who has plenty of experience playing and coaching at Seymour and Nagambie.

“Liz is a great asset to our A-grade side. She keeps surprising me and her personality is fitting in really well here. It will be great to see how she goes this year,” Bochtler said.

And with pre-season matches against Mansfield And Violet Town on the cards, Bochtler said her squad would use the early hit-outs to position itself strongly ahead of round one.

“We love the idea of these practice matches, playing against the other girls, and it’s going to be interesting to see how we match-up,” Bochtler said.

“We’re feeling confident in the teams and players we have. They’re working really well together and there is really great flexibility within the team that players can come into multiple positions.

“It will be an opportunity to see what combinations work best and, hopefully, then we can go into our first match and win, which sets us up for the rest of the season.”

FOOTBALL

An influx of young talent and smaller bodies will allow Benalla All Blacks to look to take the game on more in their return to Ovens and King Football League action this year.

“We’re looking pretty young and there is plenty of energy out there. Blokes trying to prove themselves,” senior coach Nich Spencer said.

“We want to play an attacking and fast-pace game with the youth we have and a fair few smaller blokes coming into the side.

“Last year I would have said we’d look to slow it down and centre it up with some big bodies, but now we’re going to try and take the game on more and play on where we can and get metres were we can.

“Without a doubt, our goal every year is to make finals, and I would say we should definitely get there.”

With a number of their young talent crossing from Benalla’s under-18 program, Spencer said as many as three were senior-ready with the remaining looking to filter up throughout the season.

As for those already among the program, Spencer said blokes like reigning club best-and-fairest Sam

GOORAMBAT

Losing a year of netball off the back of the COVID-19 pandemic, a grim forecast among the walls of Goorambat has now shapeshifted into one of hope.

“We thought, we didn’t know if we would have a team, but the enthusiasm has been beyond expectations,” senior coach Amelia Skilbeck said.

As for Skilbeck a return to the top A-grade gig was a no-brainer for the 300+ game veteran.

“I wanted to help the club; I love coaching and love the club, so it was natural to come back,” she said.

With a mix of old and new faces to the squad, Skilbeck said there was plenty of talent to get excited about at the Bat Cave this year.

“Sarah Osborne — she hasn’t played for us before, so I’m really excited to see what she can bring to the team with her youth and enthusiam,” Skilbeck said.

“And it’s great to have Liv Dalton back as well after having a baby.”

FOOTBALL

Newton would continue to set the standard among the group.

“Sammy only takes about two weeks to get fit, he’s going to have another big year I’d imagine,” Spencer said.

“And Trent Chapman has been the biggest difference so far in pre-season. He’s lost 13 kg and lifted his leadership and has a bit more confidence.”

– MEG SAULTRY

Heading into his second season at the helm, Goorambat coach Sam Gladstone is confident his side has what it takes to challenge the rest of the Ovens and King Football League competition.

Struggling early in 2019, the Bats enjoyed an improved back stretch to their season, with the growth signs clear for what Gladstone was building at Goorambat.

A solid recruiting period pre-COVID-19, the Bats have been able to maintain their position heading into a new season.

“The biggest thing has been getting the discipline back to get back to training,” Gladstone said.

“We’ve got a really good spine and a really good base to work off.

“We’ve got a young group and if we keep them we’re a good chance in a couple of years.”

Gladstone said blokes like Dylan Beavis and incoming Goulburn Valley League stalwart Rob Staff would be critical to the Bats’ midfield brigade, along with veteran stars Ben Reaburn and Shane Rodwell,

With just weeks remaining until round one, Skilbeck said the Bats’ three senior teams would now begin to “get down to business”.

“We definitely want to be competitive this year and be right up there, so it’s about working on our fitness and skills and pushing ourselves to make finals,” she said.

“We missed out in 2019 by a couple of games and we were struggling for numbers then, so we’re in a really great position now that we can have set positions and a component team and be competitive, with a bit of fun on the side.”

And it’s that fun factor this year that will be most crucial for those around the club after the long stretch of little-to-no organised sport.

“We’ve always had that atmosphere — we love to have fun, laugh at ourselves, and win or lose, we can come off the court as a team and be happy with our achievement on the court.”

who have played between 150–200 games for Goorambat.

“They’re the people we work around and play our best footy around. You know what you’ll get out of them every week,” Gladstone said.

Further complementing the group will be Tom Moloney, a ruckman seeking senior opportunities off the back of a reserves best-and-fairest at Benalla in 2019.

But facing the Bats straight off the bat is a literal trial by fire, as they host perennial powerhouse Tarrawingee in round one.

Despite the obvious challenge, Gladstone said it was a great first game to get.

“I think it’s a good thing, it will show us where we are at. They’ve had it the same as us, everyone has to do a pre-season,” Gladstone said.

“But I plan every game to win, so we’ll see what happens.”

– MEG SAULTRY

HEATHCOTE DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE LEITCHVILLE-GUNBOWER

Leitchville-Gunbower will trust in its systems in 2021.

The club has reappointed football coach Cam van Florestein, with the young Bombers looking to make their way back to the finals after a down year in 2019.

Van Florestein said his young side would be aiming to play finals for the season.

“It’s what you should always be aiming for as a club,” van Florestein said.

“We’ve got a really good group who were making a lot of progress before the season shut down last season, and they’ve come back with the same attitude they had last year.

“We’ve picked up a few new players and they will add a bit to the side. It’s a good feeling around the club, the boys are setting themselves strong goals and we hope to see a strong season.”

Netball coach Ash Bradley will also return, joined

by Kate Donehue, as their team looks to fight its way up the ladder.

The side finished third last in 2019, but had already identified a new direction with its new coach, new players and a desire to be at the top end of the table.

It will be an important season for both sides.

–ANDREW JOHNSTON

LOCKINGTON BAMAWM

There is a different look to Lockington-Bamawm United compared to 12 months ago.

Brodie Collins is the sole senior footy coach with the returning Jess Hardess named A-grade netball mentor.

Collins has a big job ahead of him with many people already labelling the Cats as Heathcote District League premiership favourites.

But he isn’t prepared to buy into any of the talk.

“People can speak all they want, but everyone is starting on an even playing field right now,” Collins said.

“You can be as good as you want on paper, but you still have to do a lot of hard work if you want to taste success.

“The boys are aware of that and they’ve been getting to training in good numbers throughout pre-season.

“There is a real sense of excitement about everyone getting the chance to play footy again.”

On the netball front, LBU is desperate to improve

as quickly as possible after having won just a single game in its 2019 campaign.

“There’s no doubting we want to win more games, but everyone is just happy to be back,” Hardess said.

“The early signs are really good and hopefully we can continue to build on those.

“We’ve got a good mix of new and returning players which is really exciting.

“Then we’ve got our junior players who we’re hoping we can give some senior experience to.”

– MEG SAULTRY

Football and Netball 2021 69

PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

ATTRACTING STAR POWER The recruitment of several high-level players across Picola District Football Netball League is set to result in an entertaining season.

Headlining the ins are Katamatite duo Sam Wright and Joel Tippett, who bring AFL experience to the league having played for North Melbourne.

There is a host of Goulburn Valley League players too, with Katandra, which returns to the league, the home to 10 of them, including 2018 premiership player Jonty Wardle.

Tungamah will also return from Murray Football League and after making finals in the higher level in

2019, it too will be expected to be competing at the pointy end.

Reigning premier Strathmerton will head into 2021 as the hunted and with a similar squad to what won it the 2019 title, you can add it to the list of premiership fancies as well.

Strathmerton will also be looking to defend its A-grade netball title.

Nipping at its heels will be Katunga, which lost a preliminary final last start, Katamatite, which is hoping a better run with injuries will allow it to improve from 2019’s sixth position and of course Picola, which is looking for revenge after losing the 2019 grand final.

Yarroweyah is as fit as ever, according to A-grade coach Bec Demaio, and Waaia is looking to improve from its seventh-placed finish in 2019.

Then you throw in the competition’s two newest sides — Tungamah and Katandra — and this season’s premiership could go anywhere.

The problem is, there’s only room for eight football sides and eight netball teams to play-off in September and, while it’s hard to tip a clear favourite, you can bet some teams will be bitterly disappointed not to be a part of the finals action at season’s end.

– RODNEY WOODS

LADDER PREDICTION FOOTBALL 1: Katamatite 2: Strathmerton 3: Berrigan 4: Waaia 5: Katandra 6: Tungamah 7: Picola United 8: Deniliquin 9: Jerilderie 10: Rennie 11: Mathoura 12: Yarroweyah 13: Katunga 14: Tocumwal 15: Blighty

NETBALL

9 1 0 2

S R E I M E PR

1: Katunga 2: Deniliquin Rovers 3: Strathmerton 4: Picola 5: Katamatite 6: Tungamah 7: Katandra 8: Tocumwal 9: Waaia 10: Jerilderie 11: Blighty 12: Mathoura 13: Berrigan 14: Yarroweyah 15: Rennie

PAST PREMIERS

2019: Football: Strathmerton Netball: Strathmerton 2018: Rennie and Deniliquin 2017 NW: Picola United and Tocumwal 2017 SE: Rennie and Katunga 2016 NW: Picola United and Tocumwal 2016 SE: Shepparton East and Katunga 2015 NW: Strathmerton and Tocumwal 2015 SE: Tungamah and Katunga 2014 NW: Jerilderie and Strathmerton 2014 SE: Tungamah and Katandra

PAST PEARCE MEDALLISTS 2019: John Woodcock (Katamatite) 2018: Ash Thompson (Waaia) and Mark Ryan (Picola United) 2017 NW: Jed Brain (Blighty) 2017 SE: Bodhi Butts (Tungamah) 2016 NW: Andrew May (Deni Rovers) and Dave Daniel (Picola United) 2016 SE: Matt Rendina (Shepparton East), Eamon Reeves (Katunga) and Matt McCarty (Waaia) 2015 NW: Paul Massingham (Berrigan) 2015 SE: Matt McCarty (Waaia) and Nick Doyle (Tungamah) 2014 NW: Andrew May (Jerilderie) 2014 SE: Luke Minogue (Katandra) and Tyson Saunders (Katamatite)

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70 Football and Netball 2021

PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

BERRIGAN

NETBALL

With a few pick ups including returning playing coach Laura Gorman, Berrigan’s A-grade netball team is set to put a competitive foot forward this year.

“We’ve got a great mix of old and new players in the senior squad,” Gorman said.

“And our number one objective is to be competitive.

“Coming back after a bad year last year (with COVID-19 cancelling the season) has given the players time to realise how serious they are about

their netball.”

The Saints will welcome midcourt pocket rocket Alliza Evans as a new face and Leah Dalgleish is returning to the side after shifting home from Melbourne.

While being successful is on the forefront of the team’s mind, Gorman said the juniors wouldn’t go unnoticed.

“There will be lots of room for junior development this year,” Gorman said.

“I know as a junior I always loved the opportunity to play up.”

FOOTBALL

Berrigan will be one team to watch in season 2021 of the Picola District Football League.

Ty Russell will return to lead the Saints along with off-season signing Tim McAuley.

McAuley is a previous winner of the 2015 McLeod Medal in Sunraysia Football League.

He also has a history with rugby league, being named man of the match in the 2016 Group 20 Rugby League First Grade grand final.

Russell said the club had been recruiting heavily and expected to retain all players from the cancelled 2020 season.

“Wade Demasi, Will Gorman and James Hazelman have been added to the squad,” Russell said.

Gorman is a former premiership player for the Saints and is returning after campaigns in the Murray and Ovens and Murray leagues.

Hazelman is a previous best-and-fairest winner and ex-coach for Barooga and has more than 200 Murray league games under his belt.

Demasi will be joining Hazelman in his move from Barooga.

“Hopefully we can improve on last season.

The club is expecting a big year with our current roster.”

– JAMIE LOWE

WillGorman

PLAYER CHANGES BecWare

FAST FACTS

NETBALL COACH: LAURA GORMAN 2019 FINISH: NINTH (5-11)

FOOTBALL COACHES: TY RUSSELL AND TIM MCAULEY 2019 FINISH: FIFTH (13–5) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: HARLEY MIDDLETON 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: TED WALLISS (55) GROUND: BERRIGAN RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: SAINTS

‘‘We are hopeful the season will go ahead and that we can finally get back out there after a year away from the courts in the senior ranks.’’

Blighty Football Club is in for a tough season in 2021, with the mass exodus of 2020 still set to have a big effect on the club.

On a positive note for the Redeyes, they have locked away Brad Haines as a non-playing coach for the Picola District Football League season.

Haines, a former premiership winning player for Collingullie in Riverina Football League, will replacie Daniel Kirchen after the latter joined Tallygaroopna.

“I’m hoping to build a side of local blokes that love the club, so that is going to be my main focus,” the 32-year-old said.

Haines will be looking to the club’s up and coming talent for the year.

“We should hopefully still have blokes like Sam Singleton, Jake Platfuss and Kyel Bain, but we will definitely be looking at the next

BLIGHTY

NETBALL

Blighty Netball Club is still on the hunt for an A-grade coach.

President Jodi Brown said she was hopeful the club would secure A and B-grade coaches for the upcoming Picola District Netball League season soon. ‘‘We are starting with fitness training to mainly see how many players we will see post COVID-19 lockdowns,’’ she said. ‘‘What we would love is for someone new and fresh to bring new ideas to the club. ‘‘We want someone who will embrace what the club has to offer and who can connect with the players. ‘‘While we are uncertain on whether the season will go ahead, it gives us confidence that all teams involved in the league are in the border bubble.

IN: Wade Demasi, James Hazelman (Barooga), Will Gorman, Tim McAuley.

OUT: Mark McQualter, Ted Walliss.

FOOTBALL

Jodi_Brown

generation,” Haines said.

“Speaking with the committee we are in agreeance that we need to be looking at the long term and to take the club forward we need to invest in our young local talent.

“It will be good to get a couple of senior games into those younger blokes that are in their last year of thirds footy, and help them prepare for it.

“Obviously I will be aiming to win every game we play and would love to at least make finals, but next year will be about building the side up.

“When I first joined Blighty the club started to struggle with junior numbers. It’s pleasing to see that now the juniors are stronger than ever, so hopefully we can keep them at the club as time goes on.”

– JAMIE LOWE

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Maksym Eddy.

OUT: Daniel Kirchen (Tallygaroopna), Jack Tyndall, Lenny Clarke, Lachie MacDonald, Tyler Amor-Beal.

FAST FACTS

NETBALL COACH: TO BE CONFIRMED 2019 FINISH: 10TH (4-12)

KyelBain

FOOTBALL COACH: BRAD HAINES 2019 FINISH: 11TH (4–12) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: LACHIE MACDONALD 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: DARCY MORRIS (15) GROUND: BLIGHTY RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: REDEYES

Football and Netball 2021 71

PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

DENILIQUIN ROVERS NETBALL

Deniliquin Rovers look primed to be a finals contender once again in 2021.

The Roos will be led by 2018 Picola District Netball League premiership winning co-captain Brittany Kirby who will take on the role as a playing coach.

While lining up herself, Kirby said she would have a focus on the junior netballers at the club.

“If there is a junior who impresses us and deserves it, I will happily take a step back,” Kirby said.

“Juniors are our future; if the players in their late 20s and early 30s can guide the way for the juniors just as the last generation did for us, then I believe it is our obligation to do so.”

Among the A-grade squad this season will be the likes of Nat Sampson, Edwina Barclay, Cara Meyer, Britt Kirby, Sienna Jenkins, Hayley Denny and Janice Hilton.

– JAMIE LOWE

FOOTBALL

Deniliquin Rovers playing coach Alex Hay will look to start where he left off in 2020, with the club announcing he has been reappointed in his role for 2021.

Last year was supposed to be the 26-year-old’s first year in the role, however, the coronavirus pandemic caused the Picola District Football League season to be cancelled.

Therefore, his first year consisted of only one practice match against the Hay Lions.

“We have looked to emulate what we did in the build up to the 2020 season.

That should put us in a good position for this year,” Hay said.

“The time off has actually been good for some of our older players to rest up, so they can take on this year at full strength.”

The Rovers exceeded expectations in the 2019 season, making their way to a

preliminary final despite finishing sixth on the ladder.

It was a season when the Roos finally broke their finals drought, scoring their second post-season win in 25 years and their first since 2008.

Hay said with the monkey now off the back of the club, his side was in a good position to build towards its first piece of silverware.

“When we finished up in 2020 I had a fairly motivated group and everyone has

already recommitted, which has made my life a lot easier,” he said.

“The most positive thing was that a high expectation was set not just by me, but the playing group themselves as to what needs to be done.

“I’ll stick by what I had planned last year.

We have been conscious of keeping the playing list local to ensure that everyone can be at every training session unless there are circumstances out of their control.”

AlexHay

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Adam Bodey, Matt Dowling, Lewis Habraken.

OUT: Nathan Kerr, Dylan Kerr (Rumbalara), Djaran Whyman, Josh Flight.

BrittanyKirby

FAST FACTS

COACH: BRITTANY KIRBY 2019 FINISH: FOURTH (13–5)

JERILDERIE NETBALL

Looking to come into the 2021 season fighting fit, Jerilderie has welcomed a selection of new, younger players to give it a competitive edge.

One of several recruits, Ella Arnold will lead the team as playing coach, and said the side was keen to be competitive this season after a poor performance in 2019.

“Coming into the season fit is really going to benefit us, especially come the fourth quarter,” Arnold said.

“We’re lucky to have a few uni girls happy to commit to coming back on weekends for games.

“And with a younger side, I’m pretty keen to develop basics.”

The Demons also welcome the Barlow sisters, Elouise and Annalise, to their ranks, and Ellie Marshall is also set to return to the side.

“Everyone’s feeling fresh after a year off and we’re keen to give it a red-hot crack,” Arnold said.

– JAMIE LOWE

KiaraKeating

PLAYER CHANGES IN: Lachie Lane, James Gregory.

OUT: Nil.

FAST FACTS

72 Football and Netball 2021

COACH: ELLA ARNOLD 2019 FINISH: 12TH (3–13)

COACH: ALEX HAY 2019 FINISH: FOURTH (12–7) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: DES MORGAN 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: JOSH FLIGHT (38) GROUND: MEMORIAL PARK NICKNAME: ROVERS

FOOTBALL

Premiership winning stars Chris Marshall and David Gregory have been reappointed as the senior coaches for Jerilderie for the 2021 Picola District Football League season.

What was looking like a promising year for the Jerilderie Football Club in 2020 ended for the seniors after one practice match in March.

The season saw the return of many locals, primarily based in Melbourne, and this core group is keen to play again in 2021 if there are no COVID-19 restrictions. They want to help move the Demons up the ladder.

Marshall said he was “champing at the bit” to get going after personally missing two seasons of footy due to injury and COVID-19.

“Watching our thirds win the flag (in 2020) was great, but really cemented my love of playing and coaching and how much I miss footy,” Marshall said.

“Helping the young guys like Ben Neessen, Glen Di Lullo and Rory Knight — who was awarded best-on-ground in the thirds premiership — develop into senior players is a great challenge and one I look forward to.”

RoryKnight

COACHES: CHRIS MARSHALL AND DAVID GREGORY 2019 FINISH: 10TH (4–12) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: DAVID GREGORY 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: JORDAN ANTHONY (38) GROUND: JERILDERIE RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: DEMONS

PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

KATAMATITE

NETBALL

With a similar squad to 2019, Katamatite’s A-grade netball side will be looking do better than sixth place in 2021.

Coach Tesslyn Saunders said injuries prevented the team from reaching its full potential two years ago.

“We had a lot of injuries in the last season, so we will be making sure we put in the work to make sure everyone is ready to go and improve our teamwork and depth within the squad,” Saunders said.

Despite the loss of Marion Scanlan to Mooroopna and Abby Ellis to Violet

Town, the Tigers will have the services of Shepparton Swans duo Ellie Lazzarotto and Cassia Colbeck.

“The girls are all firing to go,” Saunders said.

“It (the year off ) gave the older bodies a rest, but it also made them more determined to have a good season.”

Saunders expects Lazzarotto and fellow recruit Sophie Bray to be ones to watch and, while she hoped everyone would improve, she said Ria Still and Emma Skehan were ready to have a breakout year for the club.

FOOTBALL

Having two players with AFL experience on its list, Katamatite us putting all its chips on the table for a shot at glory in 2021.

Former North Melbourne and Gold Coast player Joel Tippett, who also spent time on Brisbane’s list and most recently played for Williamstown, joins fellow AFL Kangaroo Sam Wright in yellow and black.

In addition to the major drawcards, Xavier Kennedy has returned to the club after playing with Yarrawonga in 2019 and the Tigers have also recruited Hayden Creenaune from Queensland.

“We’re pretty confident we have put a good list together,” senior co-coach Jedd Wright said.

“We want to make finals firstly, but to win a final or two would be the goal.

“Everyone seems to have picked up a few, so it’s going to be an even

competition and if you’re off your game you could quickly lose a couple.”

Wright, who will have Tom Buzza alongside him in the coaching role, said despite topping up the squad with AFL experience, it was improvement from within that would result in their goals being achieved.

“We are looking at our 21 and 22-yearolds,” he said.

“Players like Brad Tarnell and Sam Fowles are getting close to 100 senior games, so we’re looking for them to take the next step.”

– RODNEY WOODS

XavierKennedy

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Sam Wright (AFL), Dion Gleeson (Congupna), Ash Hobbs (Euroa), Jordan Hallam, Joe Wilkie, Joel Tippett (Williamstown), Xavier Kennedy (Yarrawonga) and Hayden Creenaune (Queensland) OUT: Nil

TesslynSaunders

FAST FACTS

NETBALL COACH: TESSLYN SAUNDERS 2019 FINISH: SIXTH (12–1–5)

KATANDRA

NETBALL

After a year off and two seasons playing in the Murray league, Katandra netballers will be hoping for a change of fortunes when they take on the challenge of the Picola District Netball League this season.

After picking up one win in each of the past two seasons, coach Bec Osmond is hopeful of being competitive in 2021.

“Definitely with the year off and returning to the Picola league from the Murray, it’s hard to tell where we sit as it’s been a few years since we’ve played these teams, but hopefully we get some wins on the board and be competitive,” Osmond said.

The year off has obviously got the competitive juices flowing with high numbers greeting Osmond at training.

“We’ve had really good numbers,” she said.

“We started training just before Christmas and have had good numbers across the grades and they are all excited to get out there after the year off.

“We’re all looking forward to be able to do our weekend sport again.

“The community has really missed the social side, so hopefully everything goes ahead smoothly.”

FAST FACTS

FOOTBALL COACH: JEDD WRIGHT AND TOM BUZZA 2019 FINISH: SIXTH (13–5) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JOHN WOODCOCK 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: BRODIE MCDONALD (68) HOME GROUND: KATAMATITE RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: TIGERS

FOOTBALL

Katandra is excited to be back in Picola District Football League after two seasons in Murray league resulted in a combined seven wins.

Coach Trent Herbert said the team was raring to go as it hoped to achieve the ultimate success.

“We’re looking really good,” Herbert said.

“We’re very excited to have a decent crack.

“We’re back to the league that we are suited best and the guys are looking forward to that.

“I haven’t put too many expectations on them as they know what the outcome will be if we stick to our plans and play Katandra footy.

“It’s scary to see what we could do if we put our best team together.

“We’ve got the belief that we can go a long way.”

Helping them achieve that success will be Jonty Wardle, who was a part of Shepparton when it famously knocked off Kyabram in the 2018 Goulburn Valley League grand final.

“The inclusion of Jonty is massive just because of his knowledge and leadership that he brings from the experience he has from the premiership team at the Bears,” Herbert said.

“There’s roughly 10 or so senior players who have GVL experience, so bringing them into the Picola league is going to put us on the front foot.”

– RODNEY WOODS

JontyWardle

PLAYER CHANGES

BreeDudgeon NETBALL COACH: BEC OSMOND 2019 FINISH (MURRAY NETBALL LEAGUE): 14TH (1–17)

IN: Jack Nelson, Luke Moroney, Cody Teitzel (Shepparton United), Adam Pommeroy (Shepparton United), Jonty Wardle (Shepparton), Mitchell Black, Jack Caia, Rhys Damon and Cameron Calder OUT: Russell Eden (Shepparton Swans) FOOTBALL COACH: TRENT HERBERT 2019 FINISH (MURRAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE): 13TH (4–14) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: LUKE MINOGUE 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: RYLEIGH SHANNON (24) HOME GROUND: KATANDRA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: KATS

Football and Netball 2021 73

PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

KATUNGA

NETBALL

Katunga’s A-grade netball side has had a whole season to think about what could have been in 2019 after exiting finals at the preliminary final stage.

And because of that, coach Aimee Sidebottom is determined to win two more games in 2021.

When asked whether she had the squad to achieve the ultimate success, Sidebottom said “we certainly do”.

“I think our midcourt will be one to watch,” Sidebottom said.

“We’re pretty covered for all positions, if I’m honest.”

The Katunga squad will look much the same in 2021 as it did two years ago, but it won’t have the services of former junior Michelle van den Goor, who is on maternity leave.

Despite the loss, the club has picked up Numurkah player Zoe Ludington.

FOOTBALL

With the youngest list in the league, Katunga is just looking to be competitive in 2021.

Helping the cause will be Fergus Lappin, Ed Hayne and Cameron Bishop, all three recruits coming from the Victorian Amateur Football Association.

These inclusions are in addition to the likes of former Congupna player Nathan Congram, and Brayden Kearns, who kicked 46 goals from 18 matches as a midfielder for Stanhope in 2019.

“Fergus and Cam will play on-ball and bolster our midfield immensely and Ed is a bit of a utility,” coach Damien Kennedy said.

“The way we have recruited, we expect to be competitive.

“Towards the end of 2019, we were pushing the top sides, so hopefully the recruits will allow us to build on that.

“We’re not sure where we sit until we know how good the competition is.”

To help reach its full potential, Kennedy is optimistic the younger brigade will stand up and accompany the recruits.

“We have some kids coming through the ranks — Max Hendy, Bailey Smith and Lachie Daniels to name a few,” he said.

“We’re excited at where we are at.

“Now’s the time to knuckle down and work hard.”

– RODNEY WOODS

NathanCongram

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Fergus Lappin (VAFA), Ed Hayne (VAFA), Cameron Bishop (VAFA), Nathan Congram (Queensland, formerly Congupna), Brayden Kearns (Stanhope) and Anthony Tautala (Shepparton East) OUT: Josh Smith (studies) and Jake Hodgkin (studies)

AimeeSidebottom

FAST FACTS

NETBALL COACH: AIMEE SIDEBOTTOM 2019 FINISH: THIRD (13–1–4)

PICOLA UNITED

NETBALL

Picola United A-grade netball coach Emma Greaves is searching for greater consistency in 2021, despite making the grand final in 2019.

Greaves said the group was raring to go after 2020’s cancelled season.

“We’re all pretty excited to be back into it finally after a big break,” she said.

“It’s not a bad thing to have a break as everyone is feeling refreshed and bodies are feeling refreshed and it will be good to get back into it.”

While returning to the big dance is the team’s ultimate goal, Greaves said improvement from within would also be a high priority.

“The one good thing about our team is we have a lot of versatility and everyone does their part,” she said.

“There’s not one standout player we rely on — everyone’s on the same par.”

FOOTBALL COACH: DAMIEN KENNEDY 2019 FINISH: 12TH (2–14) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: MITCH SIDEBOTTOM 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: DYLAN SIDEBOTTOM (36) HOME GROUND: KATUNGA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: SWANS

FOOTBALL

Picola United will be looking for nothing less than a finals appearance when it returns to the field in 2021, but understands the competition for spots will be as tight as ever.

The Blues have bolstered their 2019 line-up with the likes of co-coach Darby Walsh, returning from Shepparton Swans, ruckman Jacob Barrington, who has represented the Central Murray Football League during his days at Koondrook-Barham, and former premiership players Taylor Beard and Sean Solar are returning.

“I think we are going to be really competitive against tough opposition,” Walsh said.

“I think the general standard is going to lift.

“We’re always aiming to go as far as we can and you always should be looking to go for the premiership, but having said that it’s a strong league and strong players are coming in.”

Walsh, who will be coaching with Scott McKenzie this year, said Barrington would be one to watch.

“I think he’ll do a really good job,” he said.

“Luke Woolen, from Tongala, will also provide a lot for us right over the ground.”

– RODNEY WOODS

SeanSolar

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Darby Walsh (Shepparton Swans), Djaran Whyman (Deniliquin Rovers), Corey and Jacob Barrington (Koondrook-Barham), Brandon Byrne (Rochester), Mitch Heggart, Joel Thompson (Shepparton), Taylor Beard and Sean Solar OUT: Mark Ryan (Tallygaroopna), Tom Hislop (retired), Matthew Crooks (Lake Boga), Luke Jackson, Rhys Varcoe, John Walker and Reagan Hamilton

EmmaGreaves

FAST FACTS

74 Football and Netball 2021

NETBALL COACH: EMMA GREAVES 2019 FINISH: RUNNER UP (13–1–4)

FOOTBALL COACH: DARBY WALSH AND SCOTT MCKENZIE 2019 FINISH: SEVENTH (7–10) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: BLAKE JORGENSEN 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: DYLAN CUNNINGHAM (23) HOME GROUND: PICOLA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: BLUES

PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

MATHOURA

NETBALL

There’s a feeling around Mathoura netball that every thing is looking better than it has in several years.

Under the leadership of experienced mentor Rita Howard, the Timbercutters are determined to improve drastically on their 2019 season when they yielded just three wins.

And despite still being several weeks away from the start of the season, Howard is excited by what she has seen.

“Our trials were done at an extremely high level,” Howard said.

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised given how much time away from the club the girls have had. I think we are going to have a lot of talent to work with throughout the grades.

“That means there is going to be pressure on places which is only going to benefit everyone.”

Howard also said she was determined to give everyone at the club a chance.

“I want everyone to get the best out of themselves, whether it’s our junior or more experienced players,” she said.

RitaHoward

FOOTBALL

For the past 18 months, Mathoura has been left with a taste in its mouth it wants again.

Finals football.

In 2019, the Timbercutters broke an almost decade-long drought as they snuck into the Picola District Football League top eight.

And for senior coach Darcy Robinson the goal for the upcoming season is a simple one.

“We want to play finals,” Robinson said.

“How we were beaten in the elimination final by Rennie doesn’t sit well with the boys, so they’ve all got plenty of fire in the belly to prove a few people wrong.

“As a club we’re hoping to build towards success and this season gives us another fantastic opportunity to do that.”

Importantly, the Timbercutters have been able to hold on to several talented

players who had committed to the club for the 2020 season.

They include John Allitt, Tyler Beasy and Blaze Branson.

“Those boys have all been really impressive on the training track,” Robinson said.

“We might still have a few others come in closer to the start of the year which will hopefully give us some real depth.

“As a coach, you want to have pressure on spots every week.”

It hasn’t been just the coaching staff driving the club’s well publicised recruiting drive either according to Robinson.

“We sat down with some of the boys and asked who they wanted to play with,” he said.

“We’ve found across the region a lot of people are just wanting to have a kick

with their mates and it is no different at our club.

“When talented players can come into your club, by basically falling into your lap, it is a massive bonus.”

– BRAYDEN MAY

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Zak Thomson (Tocumwal), John Allitt, Tyler Beasy, Blaze Branson, Rod Reeves OUT: Nil

FAST FACTS

NETBALL COACH: RITA HOWARD 2019 FINISH: 11TH (3–13)

RENNIE

NETBALL

Development will be the primary focus of Rennie’s season, according to netball president Lisa Starr.

While it has good numbers at a junior level, the club’s senior talent is lacking heading in 2021.

“This year will be more about developing our juniors into senior netballers rather than get the wins this year,” Starr said.

“We have a few that could take the next step as we have quite a bit of depth in our juniors.”

Starr said the NSW-Victoria border closures were a reason for the low numbers.

“The border (closure) impacts have affected our town and our numbers as people are still waiting to see whether this year’s season goes ahead.”

Those that have returned are enjoying being back, but Starr hoped more would join as the season got closer.

“They are really enjoying the training and the social side of things as well,” she said.

“It’s good to see the regulars come back and it would be nice to see some more regulars and new ones as well.”

DarcyRobinson

FOOTBALL COACH: DARCY ROBINSON2019 FINISH: EIGHTH (6–10) 2019-BEST-AND-FAIREST: JAKE ELLERY 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: DARCY ROBINSON (23) GROUND: MATHOURA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: TIMBERCUTTERS

FOOTBALL

Rennie fans will have to wait a few more years for another football flag, according to coach Craig Ednie.

With the loss of Nick O’Bryan and Ednie’s brother Luke from the 2019 list, in addition to ex-AFL players Brendan Fevola and Ricky Dyson, who were expected to play last year’s cancelled season, Ednie is expecting his team to drop a few rungs on the ladder.

“It’s been a bit of a task getting blokes back into footy,” Ednie said.

“Hopefully a few more jump on board as the season gets closer.

“The list is not quite as strong as it was last year.

“I’d like to think we play finals and to be around the sixth to eighth position would be nice.

“If we bring the young kids along hopefully we will be up there again in

three or four years competing for a flag.”

Despite the loss of players, it’s not all doom and gloom, with the likes of Daniel Maher and Matt Prendergast, who they picked up last year, staying on board.

When asked to single out some players to look out for this season, Ednie pointed to his younger brigade, including Jack Kennedy, Paul McCallum and Tom Mason.

– RODNEY WOODS

CraigEdnie

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Dan Maher (Murray Magpies), Matt Prendergast (Lavington), Brad Thompson, Tom McKimmie, Dylan Chung, Mark Lonergan and Michael James OUT: Nick O’Bryan and Luke Ednie

Lisa Starr

FAST FACTS

NETBALL COACH: KAREN VODUSEK 2019 FINISH: EIGHTH (5–12)

FOOTBALL COACH: CRAIG EDNIE 2019 FINISH: THIRD (13–6) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: CRAIG EDNIE 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: CHASE STRAWHORN (72) GROUND: RENNIE RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: GRASSHOPPERS

Football and Netball 2021 75

PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

STRATHMERTON

NETBALL

It’s not often you have the chance of going back-to-back when no games were played last year, but Strathmerton’s A-grade netball side will have that opportunity this season.

After winning the flag, from outside the top-four, in 2019, anything seems possible for a squad that remains much the same as the 2019 version.

“We always aim to be competitive and match-up against the other top sides and I think we should be able to do that again,” A-grade coach Caitlyn Price said.

“There’s some tough opposition out there, especially with the

new teams this year (Tungamah and Katandra).”

When asked who would be their biggest challengers heading into 2021, Price mentioned one of the new teams to the Picola District Football Netball League as “one to watch”.

“Considering we’ve come from a season off it could be hard to tell, but I know Katunga are always competitive and one to beat,” she said.

“You never know what you’re going to get with the new teams, but I think Tungamah could be one to watch out for this year.”

FOOTBALL

Co-coaches Shannon Edgar and Tim Bramich will be hoping to take Strathmerton back to the summit of Picola District Football League after winning the 2019 flag.

With a similar squad hitting the track this season, Edgar expects the team to be flag contenders again.

“We have no real changes from 2019,” Edgar said.

“I think we are going to be there again.

“Going back-to-back is certainly the plan.”

Edgar said premiership player Sam Lewis was ready to take the next step in his own development.

“One of the young fellas, Sammy Lewis, has stepped up again,” Edgar said.

“He played in the grand final in 2019 and I think he was only 18.”

Edgar also expected returning player Matt Ryan and playing assistant coach Zack Betson to be ones to watch.

“Matty Ryan is back at the club — he played in the 2015 premiership and is a hard at it player,” he said.

“Zack Betson is fitter this year and provides us with silky smooth skills on the outside.”

– RODNEY WOODS

MattRyan

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Tim Looby (Shepparton United), Matt Ryan (Shepparton), Dan Buzza (Numurkah) OUT: Trent Craven, Travis Down, Zach Wagner, Bailey Ebborn (Numurkah)

CaitlynPrice

FAST FACTS

NETBALL COACH: CAITLYN PRICE 2019 FINISH: PREMIER (14–6)

TOCUMWAL NETBALL

FOOTBALL COACHES: SHANNON EDGAR AND TIM BRAMICH 2019 FINISH: PREMIERS (16–2) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: TYRON HILL 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: TRAVIS DOWN (48) HOME GROUND: MEMORIAL PARK NICKNAME: BULLDOGS

FOOTBALL

Tocumwal Football Club coach Kade Rowe is looking forward to combining youth and experience in his inaugural season as a senior mentor.

Rowe’s initial campaign in charge was snubbed last year due to the Picola District Football League’s cancellation.

Luke Congram is also returning as assistant senior coach and last played for Yarrawonga reserves in 2019.

The Bloods’ playing coach said there was a silver lining, however, with the extended off-season allowing the club to recruit more heavily for 2021.

“It was disappointing when our season was cancelled, especially with how our pre-season training was shaping up,” Rowe said.

Tocumwal is looking to welcome the next generation in 2021, with club president Dennis Sutton confirming the club’s focus on squad development.

With more opportunity for up and coming juniors to transition into seniors Sutton said the club was excited to see what the girls had to offer.

“A transition into A and B-grades hasn’t been available for a few years because of the strength in our seniors side,” Sutton said.

“A development year is a great opportunity to see how some unknown juniors step, both as players and coaches.

“Building up the next generation is an exciting time for the club.

“The girls are really looking forward to getting back on the courts.”

– MADDY FOGARTY

“We expected to retain everyone and have added Drew Haebich from Stanhope.

“Haebich kicked 40 goals in 2019; he’s a tough bloke and will bring a lot of experience to the side.”

Rowe will add a wealth of experience for Tocumwal, last playing for Tungamah in Murray Football League in 2019, where he helped his team reach the first round of the finals.

The Bloods had a horror year in 2019, failing to win a game and finishing on the bottom of the ladder.

– JAMIE LOWE KadeRowe

PLAYER CHANGES KatrinaChewell

FAST FACTS

76 Football and Netball 2021

NETBALL COACH: KATE BIRD 2019 FINISH: FIFTH (14–4)

IN: Kade Rowe, Charles McKenna, Jacob Sampson, Drew Haebich, Mitch Collins-Bye. OUT: Brock Thomson

FOOTBALL COACH: KADE ROWE 2019 FINISH: 13TH (0–14) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: JACOB HORE 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKERS: TIM ARKLAY AND TROY POYNTON (NINE) GROUND: TOCUMWAL RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: BLOODS

PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

TUNGAMAH

FOOTBALL

NETBALL

Tungamah is back where it belongs.

That’s the inside word from A-grade co-coach Jenny Buerckner, who says excitement is palpable within the Bears’ camp ahead of its upcoming return to Picola District Netball League.

“Our guess is it will help the standard here, hopefully we’ll be able to carry more of our older players through a bit longer,” Buerckner said.

“We’ve had good numbers and it will be much easier to carry a team. We’re a small town, so to meet the numbers and fill those positions, it will definitely help.”

Picking up from a promising pre-season 12 months ago, Buerckner said the players’ return to the club had gone swimmingly so far, with upwards of 50 players hitting the court this pre-season.

And with an influx of talent from a number of Goulburn Valley and Ovens and Murray clubs, headlined by Shepparton’s Annie Seccull, along with the return of former player Keely Gissing, the club’s stocks should have the Bears highly competitive this year.

In an added bonus from its return to the league, Buerckner said the club’s

FAST FACTS

TahneePearce juniors would also benefit from more senior exposure, with the ability to play up and down in grades better facilitated.

“If we want to give them a go, the players themselves are not penalised for that and stuck up there, so it will be good to give promising players a run in seniors.”

Waaia finished seventh in its 2019 A-grade campaign, but considering fifth and sixth contested the grand final, perhaps the Bombers aren’t so far away from premiership contention.

With Nikki Foster back at the helm and strong pre-season numbers, the side appears poised to once again factor in the final discussion and is looking to jump up the ladder.

“It’s been really good, we’ve got big numbers so far and we should have some great depth. People have

“As a footy team, we’ve been a fairly successful side in the league and won premierships, so we want to make sure when we arrive back, we’re placing ourselves in the best possible position to be competitive.

“But to be honest, we’re just excited to play football.”

With Stevenson expecting a much stronger competition across the board this year, the club has made sure to stock up on talent accordingly.

“We’ve been lucky to get some locals back who had gone and played some high standard football elsewhere,” Stevenson said.

“Nick Irvine, Matt and Riley O’Kane and Damon Symes are probably our biggest recruits so far — with a few more hopefully to come.”

With time ticking down until the Bears step across the white line for its round one clash against Picola, Stevenson remains confident his team’s brand of football will stack up against the best. ”Really it’s our pressure across the ground and making it hard for teams defensively,” he said. ”In modern football, defensive efforts win big matches, so we’ll pride ourselves on being a hard team to play.”

MEG SAULTRY

PLAYER CHANGES

IN: Nick Irvine (Yarrawonga), Matt O’Kane (Strathmerton), Riley O’Kane (Yarrawonga), Damon Symes (Yarrawonga), Corey Bourke (Tocumwal), Xavier Stevenson (Shepparton), Ben Irvine, Brady Hayes.

OUT: Duane Haebich, Bodhi Butts, Kade Rowe.

NETBALL COACHES: JENNY BUERCKNER AND JAYANNA SHARP 2019 FINISH: 12TH (2–16) IN MFL

WAAIA NETBALL

It’s entry back into Picola District Football League has the small town of Tungamah up and about.

Returning from its stint in Murray Football League, new senior coach Xavier Stevenson said for the Tungamah community, country football and netball was a large part of its identity.

So after last year’s doomed season, Stevenson believes all parts of the club — from its footballers and netballers down to its juniors — would benefit from a return to a league it has a long and storied history with.

“It’s a fresh start for us. It’s exciting to be back in there; as a whole club we should be far more competitive,” Stevenson said.

stuck around and we’ve got some new players, so grading has been tough,” Foster said.

The Bombers gain sisters Ruby and Rosie Arnel; Foster said the fast and dynamic attacker Ruby and the strong defensive presence of Rosie would bolster the side across the court.

“I think the nine players we’ll have in A-grade will be very interchangeable and can play a lot of different positions, so we should be able to adjust well too,” Foster said.

XavierStevenson

FOOTBALL COACH: XAVIER STEVENSON 2019 FINISH: EIGHTH (9–10) IN MFL 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: ASH SAUNDERS 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: NICK LAWLESS (52) GROUND: JUBILEE PARK NICKNAME: BEARS

FOOTBALL

Waaia’s past two campaigns have ended in heartbreak, but expect it back at the pointy-end of the competition.

With champion goal-kicker Mark Meyland in charge, the Bombers have assembled a quality list packed with depth as they attempt to improve on their 2019 fate, when they fell in the grand final to powerful Strathmerton.

The Bombers remain without 2019 best-and-fairest winner Mitch Cleeland, but have packed the side full of talent with a plethora of recruits, headlined by Shepparton premiership star ruckman Ash Holland who appears poised to dominate his new competition.

Meyland said enthusiasm was rife after missing the 2020 season, but added his Bombers were not using their recent grand final loss as motivation.

“We’re shaping up well, we just hope

we’re not missing another season. We started before Christmas with a few sessions in December, it’s been really good and everyone is pretty keen to get back on the field,” Meyland said.

“The group has changed a fair bit from that, we’re more just trying to work with what we’ve got in front of us.”

Along with Holland, the Bombers gain Nathalia’s Brayden Summerville and Tallygaroopna duo Austin Tricarico and Jayden Goodwin, while Will Foster and Noah Scott return to their former club, adding depth to a side with no shortage of top-end class.

“I’d like to think so, but the competition appears pretty strong,” Meyland said when asked if his side would remain near the top of the ladder.

“From what everyone’s been reading, it sounds as if Katamatite is going to

be pretty strong and Strathmerton will definitely be thereabouts.”

– ALEX MITCHELL

MarkMeyland

PLAYER CHANGES

MikaylaFoster

FAST FACTS

NETBALL COACH: NIKKI FOSTER 2019 FINISH: SEVENTH (9–1–6)

IN: Jayden Clarke (Shepparton Swans), Ash Holland (Shepparton), Jayden Goodwin, Austin Tricarico (Tallygaroopna), Brayden Summerville (Nathalia), Will Foster, Noah Scott OUT: Mitch Cleeland (Shepparton United), Connor Brown (Nathalia) FOOTBALL COACH: MARK MEYLAND 2019 FINISH: RUNNER-UP (17–2) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: MITCH CLEELAND 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: MARK MEYLAND (62) GROUND: WAAIA RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: BOMBERS

Football and Netball 2021 77

PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

YARROWEYAH NETBALL

Spirits — and energy levels — are at an all-time high at Yarroweyah.

Despite a year off, coach Bec Demaio noted the players kept the pistons cranking during COVID-19 and have stoked the internal fires upon returning to the courts.

“It is the fittest I’ve seen us in years — everyone has kept up with their fitness really well,” Demaio said.

“They’ve been doing their own workout regiments, which was something we’ve all tried to do at the club.”

Recent latency in terms of ladder position hasn’t dented the Hoppers’ mettle.

In fact, competitive netball’s return is enough of an impetus in itself to spur on the playing group.

“At the moment we have good, solid numbers; we’ve kept all our players from last year as well as added a couple of new ones,” Demaio said.

“Overall, everyone is excited to be socialising again.”

FOOTBALL

Yarroweyah is calling on the services of its 2010 grand final nucleus to get the job done more than a decade later.

Co-coach Keegan Oliver, who shone during the narrow loss to Strathmerton, said the experienced heads milling about was currently working wonders at the Hoppers’ camp.

“There’s a good vibe going around the club at the moment,” Oliver said.

“We have a few returning players slotting back into the side which is great to see.”

From the Hoppers who came closest to capturing the flag in 2010, marksman Lucas Olson moves back from Barooga while Lewis Oliver slots into the side after plying his trade for Warrandyte.

Daniel Clarke will also be one to watch according to Oliver, who comes as part of a

three-man signing package from Cobram.

Rolling out a distinctly mature 18 for the 2021 campaign wasn’t strictly optional, however.

Oliver pointed to a developmental hole as one which could throw up some problems.

But while he’ll have plenty on his plate, Oliver won’t go at it alone, enlisting Mick Dunne as a coaching confidant for 2021.

“Mick is very passionate — I asked him to come on board and co-coach, and so far, we have worked really well together,” he said.

As for what Oliver wishes to achieve?

Two words; top eight.

“The dream each year is to make finals,” he said.

“I think the competition has really picked up; even with a top eight finals, it’s very tough to break into that bracket.”

– LIAM NASH

DanielClarke

PLAYER CHANGES KirrilyJones

FAST FACTS

COACH: BEC DEMAIO 2019 FINISH: 13TH (1–15)

IN: Lucas Olson (Barooga), Lewis Oliver (Warrandyte), Lance Crowe, Tim Cantrill, Daniel Clarke (Cobram) OUT: Riley Baxter (Perth), Tim Atkins (EDFL), Matt Toohey

CO COACHES: KEEGAN OLIVER AND MICK DUNNE 2019 FINISH: NFNINTH (5–11) 2019 BEST-AND-FAIREST: SHAUN GREENWAY 2019 LEADING GOAL-KICKER: ANDREW JONES (42) GROUND: YARROWEYAH RECREATION RESERVE NICKNAME: GRASSHOPPERS

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78 Football and Netball 2021

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