New Darley Netball Club coach Renee Hulls is hoping to help her new club continue to push up the Ballarat Netball League ladder.
The Devils made big strides this year, finishing with seven wins, up from four the year before, and showed that for long periods of games they could match it with the top sides.
Hulls, who coached Melton this year, said her role would allow her to develop as a coach.
“At the end of last season, their [Darley’s] co-ordinator [Marika Barnes] asked me if I’d be interested in going across as a head coach, as she wanted to step down from coaching,” Hulls said.
“She wanted to know whether I’d be interested in taking over the whole coaching program.
“It’s pretty much what I want to do – I want to develop coaches … want to take the club to the next level.”
Hulls will play in the A-grade side, while coaching the As and Bs and overseeing the whole program.
Barnes, who coached the A-grade side this year, will remain on as netball co-ordinator.
Hulls, who moved across from the Riddell District Netball League last season, knows what to expect next year.
“It was a big step up from the RDNL,” she said.
“Watching the finals series this year, in respect to East Point and North Ballarat City, we sort of know where we have to take the netball and that’s what I’m looking forward to with Darley.
“Hopefully, stepping up next year and being a finals contender next year.”
Hulls said she was excited about what she has seen of the A-grade side this year, especially in the goaling circle where she will play.
Hulls said the club was looking at recruiting some new players while ensuring it continued to bring talent through from the junior program.
“The recruitment phase starts at this time of year for every club,” she said. “Our trials are yet to be announced but pre-season will start November 24.
“We’re looking forward to anyone interested in coming across and playing with Darley.”
