On the rise...

BY MICHAEL SCALZO

Dimboola

netball leaders will rally around their A Grade side’s ‘versatility’ in 2023 as they attempt to improve on last season’s quick finals exit.

The Roos finished the 2022 season fourth on the Wimmera league ladder, but only just.

With only three percent and one drawn game separating the Roos and Ararat in sixth place, Dimboola was closer to the bottom four than the top two.

However, the Roos’ round-seven win against eventual premiers Horsham Saints showed the league there could be semi-final potential coming from up the Western Highway.

Co-coach Nicole Polycarpou said the Roos had several combinations of team structures up their sleeves this season.

“We have a versatile team, which is great. I think this could be the difference for us this season, because we will also be more experienced,” she said.

“The squad does not have a lot of finals experience and is young, so the more we play together, the better we will be.”

Polycarpou said the Roos’ win

CoaChes

A Grade: Antoinette Toet and Nicole Polycarpou

B Grade: Ashlee Morrish

C Grade: Tori Lehmann

17-and-under: Kayla Mibus and Antoinette Toet

15-and-under: Anna Lake

13-and-under: Kellie Laverty and Katie Griffiths against the Saints in round seven was proof their best netball was competitive.

The Roos defeated the Saints by eight points after leading the premiers at three changes.

They also drew against 2022 premiership runner-up Horsham Demons in round 12.

“We want to make finals, and even go all the way,” Polycarpou said.

“This could be something we achieve, given how well we played at times last season.

“This team is on the rise. We lost Emily Polack to Kalkee this off-season, but we have gained several great juniors who we are hoping will continue to get even better.

“Tilly Menzel is one of our 2022 development players and she will be very handy this season across the midcourt.

“There are several 17-andunder players who will join her in the senior sides, including Indy Ward – she is a jet.”

Polycarpou said the Roos’ netball department was working hard to ensure its players remained fresh throughout a long season.

“We are young and so it is important we make the most of our time together – it can only help us on court,” she said.

“Our mindset is key and sometimes, near the end of a season, we can all get tired.

“So our focus on having fun and positivity will hopefully sustain some great netball.”

The Roos start their new season with a match against A Grade returnees Nhill, at Dimboola, before heading to Warracknabeal’s Anzac Park in round two to meet Warrack Eagles.

Dimboola could start the 2023 season with two wins, which would surely be a dream start for a young team trying to prove to itself it remains finals capable.

Toughy’s Garage is proud to sponsor Dimboola Football and Netball Club and wish all Players and Personnel the best of luck in the coming season.

Toughy’s Garage is your friendly, locally owned business that can help with any of your car servicing and repair needs. We also can get RWC’s sorted for you along with windscreens. Don’t be shy give us a try and call the team for any enquiries and bookings on 03 5389 1225

We look forward to meeting you!