FOR Darley it’s about consolidation in netball A-grade after the club’s best season to date.
Importantly, Darley has lost no one, and potentially gained a player or two.
Essentially Darley will be the same side on paper but with a whole season of playing together, which can only be a positive for a team on the way up the ladder.
Boroondara Genesis player Olivia Aughton is the reigning league best and fairest, and forms an imposing duo in defence with keeper Bree Rizzato.
Another Victorian Netball League defender, Elyce Carlyle, is virtually a lock for goal attack, but the position of goal shooter is still open.
Much will depend on skipper Chris O’Hanlon and her fellow mid-courters.
“Our defence is strong, but we will need to improve in the mid-court I would say if we want to go up,” coach Marika Barnes said.
“It’s more about working together, knowing how each other plays, and structure. For some of the girls last year, it was the first they had played at Darley. Darley hadn’t played finals before so there was nerves, and we’re better for experiencing that a bit.”
Focus on culture
At Melton South, the focus has been on internal development for the Panthers, with one eye on the long-term future.
There has not been a strong influx of players to the club, with the focus instead on building a strong culture. Claire and Eliza Fitzsimmons will depart interstate, as will key defender Ashleigh O’Loughlin.
Scarlett Trewavis had a break-out year as centre last year and will be looking to take the next step. Experienced campaigner Jenna Nicole will be looked upon for leadership as a swag of juniors including Bianca Ferry, Monique Clark and Georgia Bowden push for a seniors berth.
“Our main goal is to continue to learn how to become a better club,” coach Andrew McInerny said.
“It’s about learning to build a good culture. My expectation is for the seniors to make finals and the reserve to get at least seven wins for the year.”
-Ballarat Courier
