Welcome to Grand Final day at Blue Lake Sports Park. WhatanoutstandingseasontheWesternBorderFootball andNetballLeaguehavehadallcomingtogethernowfor anexci nggrandfinalday
Welcome to all our sponsors and trophy donors here todayandthankyouforyourongoingsupport.
ToClubPresidents,frombothfootballandnetball,thanks for all you do at your clubs and to all the players, supporters and volunteers, for your con nued support and commitment to ensure the success of your clubsand tobeapartofthisoutstandingLeagueandcompe on.
The Western Border Football League is a very proud League,andweareextremelygratefultoEmmaHorrigan, Manager of the Bendigo Bank Mt. Gambier & District CommunityBankbranch,forallhercon nuedsupportas ournamingrightssponsor
WemustthankSANFLSECommunityFootballOpera ons Coordinator Michael Mourbey for the mountain of work hedoesbehindthescenes.Michaelisaveryunsunghero for all 3 Leagues, and we are very apprecia ve for all he doesforourLeague.
Brian Hennessy Medallist has been crowned for season 2023 and a huge congratula ons to West Gambier coach Daron McElroy on winning this award, an extremely
popular winner, inspira onal Roo Boy and a very welldeserved medallist for our League. Well done to all trophy winners for 2023, you have all had outstanding seasonstowintheseindividualawards.
WBNA, led by Jill Paul and Netball Board Member Di Gould have once again been working closely throughout the 2023 season with the WBFL. We con nue to build a strongrela onshipbetweenfootballandnetballandlook forward to working together to ensure that our League is theverybest.
WBJFL,KymHammondasPresident,workingcloselywith the Junior League Board Member Adam Salmon, have hadaverysuccessfulseasonandmadesuretheygavethe best opportuni es for junior footballers within the League.
Representa vefootballthisyearwasheldatBordertown and was a highly successful day for the WBFL winning both junior grades. Our coaches were Andrew NitschkeUnder 15s and Ben Hardy - Under 17 5s Their commitment and me given to the day was outstanding andthatreflectedthroughtheplayerseffortsbothonand offthefield.
Our seniors played KNTFL also on the day Coaching that team was Clint Gallio, your commitment and leadership andallthe meyougavetotherolewasoutstanding.The
Leaguethanksyouandcongratulatesyouonthewayyou, andalltheplayersrepresentedtheLeague.
The League was well represented at the SA Country Championships held in the Barossa with Daron McElroy, BrandonNewton,KadeVarcoe,ClintGallio,KadeBradley, Brayden Kain, Mitchell Sims, Sam Stafford and Anthony Bull–Trainer,doingourLeagueproud.
Clint Gallio and Kade Varcoe were selected to represent theSAStateTeamplayingWAinPerth,congratula onsto youbothonthisoutstandingachievement.
Thanks to the hard-working Football and Netball Presidents, League Board members, Club Commi ee members, all volunteers and supporters I am very humble and privileged to be President of the Western BorderFootballLeague.Itmakesiteasierknowingweare all working together for the same reason to con nue a strong,qualitycompe onformanyyearstocome.
In closing I wish all teams playing in grand finals both netball and football great success, Good Luck to all our coaches as they chase that premiership in 2023. Let's hopefootyandnetballisallplayedinagreatspirit,andall involvedenjoytheday
North 4.1 4.1 5.6 7.6 (48)
Best - West: Kyle Giddings, Andrew Stone, Thomas Holmes, Tre Davis, Lawrence BradleyBrown, Lewis Lean North: Nick McInerney, Bre Shepherdson, Jake Schutz, Cameron Ortlepp, Mackye Baron, Jordan Holli
Goals - West: Kyle Giddings 2, Andrew Stone 1, Lawrence Bradley-Brown 1, Ben Paps 1, Brandon Newton 1
North: Cameron Ortlepp 2, Toby deWit 2, Jus n McConnell 2, Sam Stafford 1
West 2.4 4.8 5.10 7.15 (57)
East 1.2 2.2 3.4 4.5 (29)
Best - West: Patrick Rudd, bana say, Guillaume Ros-Smith, Dwayne Phillips, Landon Lefever, Thomas Cleveland East: Tully Balshaw, Alex
Dethmore, Brayden Coppick, Grady Janeway, Ben Nash, Liam Hicks
Goals - West: Riley Wilson 2, Jordy Coombe 1, Josh Schapel 1, Callum Wagstaffe 1, Bana Say 1, Shar Nay Than 1,
East: Dylan Smith 1, Grady Janeway 1, Jackson Thomas 1, Tully Balshaw 1
6.3 8.5 12.6 15.9 (99)
Best - North: Maurice Gold-smiths, Trae Hamilton, Richard Kinyabugma, Reece McLaughlin, Kade Allen, Cooper Turner West: Jayden Prior, Zac Hopgood, Sam Medhurst, Talon Johnson, Thomas Smith, Harrison Opperman
Goals - North: Cooper Turner 3, Alexander Bruce 2, Sebas an Doody 2, Darcy Arthurson 2, Richard Kinyabugma 2, Darcy Bryan 1, Deacon Ilsley 1, Jack Spark 1, Zayne Young 1,
West: Joe Judd 1, Blake Overmaat-Pohlner 1, Jayden Prior 1
Best - Millicent: Lenny Tunkin, Sebella
Coghlan, Louis Easterby North: Sam Baron, Cooper Harris, Esaie Kulimushi, Cody Blanck, Ethan Brook, James Butler
Goals - Millicent: Nil North: Esaie Kulimushi 5, Sam Baron 2, Mason Rogers 1, Cooper Harris 1
Best - Millicent: Harrison Thwaites, Kobe Gibson, Ashton Lindner, Teej Lawlor, Charlie Damhuis, Zach Ash West: Harvey Croker, Rhys Newton, Brodie Szopory, Owen Feetom, William Pearson
Goals - Millicent: Cambell Hateley 4, Kobe Gibson 3, Cur s Shanks 2, Zach Ash 1
West: Harvey Croker 3, Brodie Szopory 1, Seth Fraser 1, Jacob Sim 1, Owen Feetom 1
Name Club Total
Frazer Bradley Millicent 41
Sam Stafford North Gambier 40
Hamish McCrae Cast. Sandford 37
Daron McElroy West Gambier 35
Jacob Carger Millicent 34
Riley Flamank East Gambier 25
Jordan Williams West Gambier 23
Toby De Wit North Gambier 22
Brayden Kain South Gambier 21
Michael Minuzzo West Gambier 19
Mitchell Reilly Millicent 19
Sam Willis Millicent 19
Mark Rumbelow East Gambier 18
Michael Krieger Cast. Sandford 15
Shaun Lock East Gambier 15
Mitchell Sims South Gambier 15
Josh Schapel West Gambier 47
Joshua Peters Millicent 36
Steven Duldig Millicent 32
Riley Sturges South Gambier 25
Riley Wilson West Gambier 23
Ryan Rutkowski West Gambier 19
Ellio Fisher South Gambier 18
Mitchell Reilly Millicent 17
Ricky Killey 16 Cast. Sandford
U/18's
Name Club Total
Angus Urquhart South Gambier 25
Sebas an Doody North Gambier 24
Reece McLaughlin North Gambier 20
Harry Gibbs Millicent 19
Zayne Young North Gambier 19
Lachlan Ray South Gambier 16
Brooklyn Winterfield West Gambier 16
Harry Fisher South Gambier 16
Nate Davey West Gambier 16 U/16's
Jace Maxwell South Gambier 46
William A will South Gambier 41
Cambell Hateley Millicent 38
Owen Feetom West Gambier 25
Aaron Dally North Gambier 24
Jedd Rhook 18 Cast. Sandford
Emerson Forbes South Gambier 18
U/14's
Esaie Kulimushi North Gambier 40
Oakley Nicholls Millicent 29
Josh Vause South Gambier 28
Oliver McCracken East Gambier 26
Cruz Gibson Millicent 24
Mason Ropi ni South Gambier 23
Jobe Harten South Gambier 21
MONDAY 8.00am - 10.00am
Back Row L-R: Craig Robinson (Team Manager) Ty Lang, Jaxon Cushion, Kade Varcoe (DVC), Jacob Todd, Kalan Shanks, Hamish McRae, Eli Redman Middle Row: Peter Duncan (Bench Coach) Kobe Gibson, Jed Haines, Josh Werchon, Zac McGuinness, Kade Bradley(DVC),SamWaring,FinnGrimes(DVC),MitchellReilly,CalebWilliams,ChrisDenton(Runner)
Front Row: Colby O’Connor, Harry Willis, Frazer Bradley, Thomas Renzi (Assistant Coach) Clint Galio (Coach) Jacob Carger (Captain),JackVerbena,SamWillis,HarryTunkin
Absent:JimmyFleming,AlicePra (Trainers)
2 - Kade Bradley - Taken his game to another level and one of the best defenders in the compe on Played interleague and zone footy this year and is ge ng rewards for his hardworkoffthefield.
4-TyLang-muchimprovedinhisoverallgame andhashadagreatfirstyearoutofjuniors.
5-ClintGallio-Provenbiggameplayer,leader of the club and puts his body on the line. Will run all day and impact the contest where he can.
8 - Sam Willis - Injuries have hampered his seasonbutisaknownmatchwinner.
10 - Colby O’Connor - has put some hours in the gym which has paid off with his footy this year Strong 1v1 player and hardly looses a contest.
11–JacobCarger-hashadaconsistentseason star ng out as a forward. Finds plenty of the footy and hardly wastes a disposal. Steps up in biggames.
12 - Tom Renzi - Co-coach of the side. Has bought a lot structurally to the team and is a great communicator Excellent foot skills, rarelywastesthefooty.
13 – Hamish McRae - First season back at the Saints since junior footy Has fit into the side seamlesslyandhisworkrateandspeedarehis strengths.
14 - Hamish Nitschke - Worked hard in the off seasonandgothimselfsuperfit.Hastheability tokickalonggoalandnotshyofthecontest.
15 - Dylan Tincknell - A player everyone loves to have on their team. Super compe ve, rarelybeatenandtakesastronggrab.
17 - Kade Varcoe - Had a great first half of the season which earnt him interleague, zone and state footy selec on. Works hard off the field tomakehimselfbe er
18 – Jack Verbena - Super composed and polished with the ball. Makes good decisions andrarelywastesapossession.
19 – Harry Tunkin - A handy inclusion into our squad this year Polished in all areas of the gameandhasagreatfootyIQ.
20 - Fraser Bradley - A hard match up for opposi on teams. Can do it in the air and on the ground. League leading goal kicker this year
21.JaxonCushion-Superathle candhiswork rate is outstanding. Rated highly among our squadforwhathedoestomakeusbe er
22 - Kalan Shanks - Emerging talent who gets be er every week. Reliable down back and finds a good balance of defending and a acking.Penetra ngle foot.
23 – Micah Rupcic - First year at the club. Hard atthecontestandastrongtackler Doesallthe 1%well.
24 - Sam Waring - Improved his game in many areasthisyear Willingtodoalltheteamthings tomakeusbe er.
25 – Mitchell Reilly - Great skills and a reliable mark. Works hard on gamedays to benefit the
team.
26 - Jacob Todd - Has a penetra ng kick who canclearthelines.Youngfellawhoworkshard atbothends.
28 - Harry Willis - Played a lot of A grade footy this year Skilful and normally makes good decisionswiththeball.
29-FinnGrimes- First picked every weekwith his team first a tude. Creates a great contest andisstrongoverhead.
30 - Caleb Williams - Gives an honest contest every week. Happy to play a role to help the team.
33 - Josh Werchon - Has the ability to break lineswithhispace.Workshard,greatskills,has a smart footy brain and makes good decisions withballinhand.
35–AshtonLindner-firsttasteofseniorfooty this year and didn't look out of place. Has a brightfutureahead.
37 – Kobe Gibson - Super young talent. Great footy smarts and awareness for a young kid. Dangerousaroundgoals.
45 - Jed Haines - Much improved player. Had a great pre season which held him in a good posi onallyear Great1v1.
48 - Zac McGuinness - One of the most consistent players in the comp. A nightmare matchupforopposi onforwards.
Back Row L-R: David Bruhn (President), Declan Kenny, Nicolas Brown, Tim Young, Sam Zeitz, Darcy Arthurson, Josh Jenner, Sam Stafford Third Row: Kenny Goodes (Team Manager), Zayne Young, Mitch Kelton, Tyson Christophersen, Dale Bachmann, Bre Shepherdson,JayTurner,KevinBryan(Assist.Coach)SecondRowTylerHorrigan,JakeSchutz,NickMcInerney(Captain),BenHardy) Coach), Jordan Holli (Assistant Coach), Hamish Telford, Cameron Ortlepp Front Row: Tim Boxall (Water), Tyler Harris, Mackye Baron, Aaron Daily, Bradley Adams Absent: Tim McInerney, Ciaran Buckley, Trae Hamilton, Will Brown,Lachlan Tillet, Sam Egan, DeaconIlsley,TobydeWit,NickBlachut,Jus nMcConnell
2-NickMcInerney - Our courageous captain –he's tough, hardworking and leads by example. This guy puts his body on the line each week and has the ability to win matches offhisownboot.
3 - Bradley Adams - One of our tough small defenders – he can play big or small, gives us run and drive off the half back flank, loves a contestandispartofthebestback7
4 - Dale Bachmann - One of our most versa le players – he's highly skilled, has a great work rate and the poten al to be a match winning player
5 - SamZeitz - A great inclusion to our side this season – he's clean in and around the contest, agreatballuserandhasarakingrightfoot
6 - Tim McInerney - An experienced footballer for North – he's dedicated to his team mates and has played both forward and back this season. His composure and skills make him a pivotalpartofthebestback7
7-CiaranBuckley - He's aged like a fine wine –his composure and clean skills make him part of the best back 7. He plays an important role withhisvoice,direc on,andknowledge
9 - Mitchell Kelton - A compe ve beast – our number 1 ruckman. He's athle c, strong over head and has shown vast improvement throughouttheyear
10 - Josh Jenner - The very defini on of a footballer– he's skilful, clean, hard, composed andyoucanalwayscountonhimtogetthejob done
12 - Cameron Ortlepp - A powerful player –he's emerged as a real leader for North in 2023,he'sversa le,athle c,andhardrunning
13 - Jake Schutz - Backman of the year – a vital member of the best back 7, a thumping right foot, strong in the air and rarely loses a one on onecontest
17 - Hamish Telford - Hardworking wingman –he's got an accurate le foot, not afraid to put hisbody on thelineand isalways ableto find a targetinside50
18 - Jordan Holli - Assistant coach – he's a strong leader on the field, one of the most reliable defenders, always takes one of the best forwards each week and plays his role in thebestback7
19 - Declan Kenny - Booming le footer – an experienced half back flanker, clean skills and notafraidtoputhisheadovertheball
21 - Sam Stafford - Assistant coach – our go to man inside 50, one of the most elite forwards in the comp, has a booming le foot, rarely missesinfrontofgoalsandlovestogetintothe ruckwhenpossible
23 - Tyson Christophersen - A working machine – his first season at the club and he's set standards with his work ethic, he's our key centre half forward and works hard up and downthefield
32 - Nicholas Brown - Mr versa le – he plays across all areas of the ground, he's hard workingandcanhitthescoreboard
33 - Jus n McConnell - One of the most decorated players in the WBFL – he doesn't look a day over 30, always brings his experienceandknowledgeandisverycapable ofhi ngthescoreboardeachweek
34 - Sam Egan - As tough as they come – he makes up part of our best back 7, he puts his body on the line each week and is a reliable andconsistentteammate
45 - Toby de Wit - The X factor – he's strong in the air and ligh ng quick at ground level, his pressure in the forward 50 is elite and he can reallyhurtteamsonthescoreboard
48 - Mackye Baron - A young gun – one of the best under 21s in the compe on, he's clean at his feet and can take a strong contested mark.Alwayscomposedandwelovetheballin thiskidshands
55 - Bre Shepherdson - A true team mate –this guys always got your back, he plays an important role in our best back 7 and he very rarelymissesatarget
30
- Aaron Dally - A young superstar – he's our hard working wingman, a solid le foot, composed and not afraid to give everything in acontest
90-NickBlachut-Ourcrumbingsmallforward – he's clean at his feet, always finds ways to hit thescoreboardandwerealwayslookingtoget theballintothisguyshandsgoinginside50
1-Aus nFuller-Youngladwhotasted a grade early on Plays anywhere aroundtheground
4-JoeWalker-Anotherveteranworks relessly.Willputhisbodyontheline.
6 - Shaun Withers - Returned to football a er 8 years away. Finding his feetattheright me.
7 - Steve Duldig - Veteran of the side, with over 300 A grade games Key posi onplayer
9 - Luke Ferguson - Highly skilled wingman who never wastes a possession
12-TyroneMay- Young versa le player who can play anywhere on the ground
14-MitchellFuller-Teamplayer,loves topopupforagoalor2
16 - Mathew Walker - Silky skilled midfielder who likes to sneak forward andhitthescoreboard
24 - Nathaniel Robbins - Veteran player who will look to lead from the front.Rarelymissesabeat.
25 - Mitchell Reilly - Key forward who
takes a nice grab. He has super foot skills.VC
27 - Aidan Schultz - Versa le player who can play at either end of the ground,isgoodintraffic
31 - Tallan Dunn - U18 with a bright future, plays key posi ons at either end.
32 - Harry Gibbs - U18 elusive across theforwardline.Hardtomatchup.
34 - Hamish Reilly - Rock solid backline player, plays on opponents much biggerthanhimandrarelygetsbeaten
38 - Brad Tilley - Highly skilled centre man who can go forward and kick goals,supercomposedwiththefooty
39-ToddCraig - Can play anywhere on the ground, high pressure player wholovestolayabigtackle
41 - Clay Reilly - Would run through a brick wall for any teammate. Compe ve,hatesge ngbeaten.
42 - Dylan Shanks - Young ruckman who ba les all day, gives away height and weight on most but works relessly
43 - Blake Werchon - U18 u lity who hashadagreatyear
44 - Will O'Connor - Has the en re skill settobeanAgradefootballer,readyto opengamesup.
46-Ma Varcoe-Apartofthebacksix. Lock down defender who gets the job done.
49 - Tyson McGrath - New to the club, not new to the game. Veteran who findsaheapofthepigskin
51 - Patrick Jennings - U18 back man whodoesn’tflinch.Inandunder
54 - Angus Wa s - Key back man who hadalatestarttotheseason.Lovesthe contest.
57 - Thomas Chant - Reliable forward whotakesastrongmark.
60-JoshuaPeters-Coach
BLUE & RED BLUE & RED
NathanLewis(Coach),AbdullahKamara(ViceCaptain),Trueman
Si ng:IsaacDolan(Mascot)Absent:BronsonBoult,WilliamMcKinnon,Jacob
1 - Dwayne Phillips - Experienced, hardnosed midfielder who runs straight lines at the footy and doesn't mind a flushed, volley goal from outside fi yonoccasion
2 - Will Crook - Young and versa le midfield/defender, might be small in stature but poundforpoundisashardasanyoneintheleague
4 - Taylor Redden - Genuine ball winning midfielder/forward with speed that can easily shake defenders a empts to tackle and leave them inhiswake
6 - Guillaume Ross-Smith - First year youngster, a talented midfielder with plenty of X-factor who is learning more and more with each game he plays, makesgooddecisionsandcanbreaklines
12 - Luke Winterfield - Versa le CHF who is hard to stopintheairandfinds meandspacewiththeball in hand. His finishing skills in front of goal are usuallyonpoint
13 - Abdulla Kamara - AK has worked his way back to the consistent form that we know and love, vital to our backline structure with his skill and experience
14 - Nathan Lewis - Our player coach, one of the driving force to keeping the side together week in week out. Leads from the front every week and is a reliablestraightkickinfrontofthes cks.
16 - Tarkyn Morale - Speedy forward pocket who hunts his own footy well and also the opposi on, lovesachasedowntackle
17 - Dan Royals - Tough backman, who gets his defensive work done reliably well, then loves to transi on his game into a ack mode from the defensive50
18 - Dale Robbins - Has had to use his gold card statusatthehospitalEDafewtoomany meslately
but when he's fit a firing, he's a class above Ressies footy.
20 - Jack Carson - Versa le youngster in his second season who throws more than his own weight aroundandreadstheplaylikeaveteran
21 - Riley Wilson - Quality forward who uses his body well to create space for himself and is dangerousinbothaerialandgroundcontests
22 - Thomas Cleveland - The general down back who, with plenty of years' experience, knows wheretoposi onhimselftoaffecteverycontesthe goesfor,rarelybeaten
25 - Jordy Coombe - Just knows how to find the footy all over the field with his elite ability to read the play Highly skilful player who knows where the goalsareandlovesacelebra on
26 - Landon Lefever - First year full senior with plenty of A grade experience. A fearless defender who's favourite part about footy is "backing into backs"...whosaysthat...crazybastard!
31 - Trueman Schrader - S ngy defender who can play on all sizes of forwards. Shoulder surgery means he misses the GF but he's had a huge say in ge ngusthere
33 - Brady Cook - Another first year full senior who gets more and more comfortable at the level, with every game he plays. Clean with his hands and uses theballwell.
36-JoshSchapel - Wirey full forward who on many occasions has kicked bags of goals for fun. Doesn't need many chances to have his influence on the game
38 - Callum Wagstaffe - Inside midfielder who craves the contested ball and is a clearance bull. If you're looking for him on Saturday, start at the bo omofeverypack
41 - Bronson Bolt - First year senior who puts his body over the ball at every contest. Plays a quality team game and will not stop un l the ball is won or dead.
42-BanaSay-Consistentmidfielderwithcleanball handling and quality skills. Will give however many efforts it takes to stop the ball leaving the area in anyoneelseshandsbuthis
46 - Darren Smith - A player that just keeps giving his all, is sneaky quick and tackling pressure is his numberonestrength
48 - Shar Nay Than - A wonderfully strong and balanced young midfielder who has the smarts to turn his opponents inside out and the speed to leavethemfordead
51 - Jasper Thomas - A speedy le footer who can playmul pleposi ons,breaklinesanddamagethe opposi onwithapenetra ngkick
52-RyanRutowski-Ahighlyskilfulmidfielderwho returnedto the club this year and aren't we glad he did. Damaging le foot, especially at goal from anywhereinside,orjustoutside50
56 - Mitch Kipping - A born full-back whose sole mission on the field, is to make a full forwards day miserable and he is highly successful at that. Don't underes matehisskillsandsmartsto
57 - Patrick Rudd - Not even sure if that's his name so we call just him the Honey Badger! What a find thisQLDrugbyimporthasbeen,hasse ledintothe ruck role and knows no other way than just beast mode,everysinglegame
66 - Tom Dolan - The skipper and newest 300 club Wes e. One of the most respected players in the league. Leaves it all out there week a er week and thisguyisaclublegend!
Lawson,MaxWhitehead
1 - Harry Fisher - CHF/Ruck - Strong marking forward that has a very long accuratekick.MadehisAgradedebut in2023
2 - Nick Adams - Mid/Fwd - Hard in and under midfielder that is very rarelybeaten
7 - Liam Delaney - Fwd/Mid - Very skilfullonbothsidesofhisbodyanda reliableshotatgoal
9 - Lochie Thiele - U lity - Can play in any posi on and always shows great composure
36-CaydeWatson-Mid/Back-Inand under player that never stops. Made hisAgradedebutin2023
53 - Harry Mitchell - Midfield - Hard running wingman that always uses the ball well. Made his A grade debut in2023
61 - Max Whitehead - U lity - Very fast and hard at it has the ability to inspirehisteammates
62-AngusUrquhart-Fwd/Mid-Hard running small forward whos had a fantas cyearinfrontofgoals
63 - Will Boston - Back/Mid - Very quick straight running defender very rarelybeaten
64 - Jed Sims - Fwd/Mid - Good skills on both sides of his body loves a goal. MadehisAgradedebutin2023
65-MitchellHarrold-Mid/Fwd-Very quick and evasive player that has a great future. One of the first picked in ourAgradethisseason
66 - Sam Domaschenz - U lityHardnose backman that never shirks ahardball
67 - Kobe Bannon - U lity - Always brings the energy and has the ability tomakethehardlookeasy
68 - Connor Fielding - Mid/BackClose checking defender that loves to runandkickagoal
69 - Addison Sims - Mid - Hard running midfielder that the forward benefitgreatlyfromhishardwork
71 - Hudson Keding (c) - Fwd/MidUses his voice and run to his advantage,Hasleadtheteamwell
73 - Rex Jones - Fwd/Ruck/BackQuick hard running ruckman with huge leap Made his A grade debut in 2023
74 - Sam Sims - Full Back - Very rarely beaten in defence can also play up forward
75-JaredKuhl-Fwd/Ruck/Back-Can play anywhere quick high marking withaveryaccurateandlongkick
76 - Nelson Forbes - Fwd/BackAthle c quick running big man that lovestokickgoals
78 - Lachlan Ray - Fwd/Ruck - Strong marking forward with a very accurate kickatgoal
79 - Harry Wright - Fwd/Ruck/BackHard running bigman that is used in manyposi onsagamechanger.Made hisAgradedebutin2023
84 - Lochie Broome - Fwd - Hard working forward that has the ability tohitthescoreboard
85 - Fletcher Lawson - Fwd/BackStrong and reliable backman that is abletokickgoalswhengoingforward
BackRowL-R: Ma Ray (Coach), Angus Urquhart,Addison Sims,SamuelSims,CaydeWatson, Lochlan Thiele,Sam Domaschenz, Harrison Mitchell Middle Row: David Wright (Runner), Kobe Bannon, Lachlan Broome, Rex Jones, Harry Fisher, Nelson Forbes, Lachlan Ray, Liam Delaney, Kevin Domaschenz (Team Manager) Front Row: Mitchell Harrold, Jed Sims, Harry Wright (Vice Captain),HudsonKeding(Captain),NicholasAdams(ViceCaptain),ConorFielding,WillBoston Absent:JaredKuhl,Fletcher
YELLOW & BLACK YELLOW & BLACK
Teangi Stephens, Maurice Goldsmith, Jordan Millard, Henry Haywood
2 - Kade Allen - Son of a Legend, skilled u lity player, strong tackling presenceonfield.
4-HectorOpie - Quiet unassuming defender, does his job week in and weekout
6-BenAllsopp
22 - Ben Braithwaite - Young defender, always improving, loves a tackle.
51-ZayneYoung(c)-Strongmarking forward,workshardonhiscra .
57
28 - Deacon Ilsley - Talented junior Played senior football. Represented WBFLatU17.5level.
29 - Seb Doody - Leading goal kicker, cleverandhighskilled.Dangerous.
39 - Josh Glidden - Defender who providesrunandcarrywiththeball.
43 - Maurice Gold-Smith - Clever, cagey,winstheimportantball.
13 - Angus Allen - General of the backline.
47 - Darcy Arthurson - Tough hard nosedonballer.
70-CooperTurner-Twowayrunner, highlyskilled,lovesacontest.
85
become a dangerousforward.
1 - Rheyn Paterson - A first year player with the heart & dependability of a life member Has come a long way in one season
3 - Mason Bentley - Inspiring & fearless hard hi er, with a hunger for the ball. Con nuously willing to do whatever it takesforhisteam
4-JakeRichter-(TheSkipper)Courageous & influen al. A natural leader with the heart of a Lion. Always striving to achieve highexpecta ons
7 - Emerson Forbes - Remarkable & ever reliable in the ruck. Exceeding pair of hands&strikingkickingabilityupforward
8 - Will A will - Astounding desire to succeed. Incredible target up forward & confidentmidfielder.Thiskidhasgotwhat ittakes
9-ArchieMilich-Emboldened,controlled &accountable.A“General”inthebackline &asounddecisionmaker
10 - Brody Fox - Phenomenal around the footy. Excep onal both on & off the track. Football skills & game sense above his years
12-MerlinHopgood-Intensive&exci ng rocket. Swi & agile across the backline & up the wing Significantly improved season&onetowatch
15 - Noah Maxwell - A dynamic leader who is consistently a profound user of the ball.Apowerfultacklingforce&extremely capablemidfielder
21 - Isaak Bouchier - Man of many names… Flexible, crea ve & consistent. Always mo vated for a acking the footy &aquickmidfieldclearance
24 - Lewis Sigley - Outstanding determina on & reliability all around the ground. Thrives on a hard contest and formidableatapplyingpressure
25 - Jack Walmsley - Charisma c & Diligentwithhandyskillsacrosstheboard. Loves being a part of it all! Outstanding a ergamea re
27 - Charlie Lockwood - Ambi ous, loyal and humble. Plays with flair & ap tude. More than capable anywhere, but excels aroundthemiddle
29 - Harry Ellis - Extraordinary ability & a real football brain. Great reader of the play&alwaysintherightposi on.Canrun fordays
30 - Jace Maxwell - Resourceful & explosive Exci ng to watch Freakish around the goals and can easily step up whenneeded
- Jordan Bartle - Ambi ous & passionate firecracker Confident out of
the backline, but can play absolutely anywhereontheground.Amusthave!
38 - Cooper Medhurst - Conscien ous, honest & expanding ability Makes great posi on, & is smart with his possessions, alwaysstrivingforhisteammates
41 - Finn O’Reilley - Speed of a Leopard, strength of an Ox. Electric to watch. Really doesn’tknowhowgoodheis
42 - Jacob Salmon - Handy a ribute with a rac veskills&confidence.Forcefulball winner&incredibleaddi ontoourteam
43 - Lachy Cameron - Disciplined & focussed. A trusted Backman with great vision & judgment. Willing & capable to carryoutanyinstruc on
44 - Desire Kinyamba - First year speed demonwithahungertoa ack&improve
45 - Harry Hicks - Dependable & versa le with a desire to play wherever he is needed. Impressive composure & mighty tacklingpressure
46 - Oscar Sneath - Con nuingly impresses more every week. A thirst for theball&passionateforthered&white
Back Row L-R: Desire Kinyamba, Lewis Sigley, Mason Bentley, Rheyn Paterson, Oscar Sneath, Merlin Hopgood Middle Row: Luke Bentley (Coach), Archie Gri on, Archie Milich, Emerson Forbes, William A will, Jace Maxwell, Jordan Bartle , Sonia Cameron (Team Manager) Front Row: Cooper Medhurst, Charlie Lockwood, Lachlan Cameron, Jake Richter (Captain), Noah Maxwell (Vice Captain), Harry Hicks, Brody Fox Absent: Isaak Bouchier, Harrison Ellis, Dean Harton, Max Lawson, Finn O'Reilley, Jacob Salmon, JackWalmsleyRED, BLACK & WHITE RED, BLACK & WHITE
1-Je Werchon-Hardworking on-baller with a knack for findingthefooty
2 - William Jennings - A ve rs a l e U 1 4 b r i n g i n g physicalitytotheteam
3 - Teej Lawlor - Classy halfbackwithgreatfootskills
7 - Harrison Thwaites - Ever reliable full back who has come alonginleapsandbounds
9 - Klaye Kenny - A cra y forward pocket who can steal a goalfromanywhere
10 - Kobe Gibson - A star with senior exposure and a bright future
11 - Cash Kenny - A capable f o r w a r d w h o g e t s h i s teammatesinvolved
12 - Dylan Sigston - Tough key
defender who makes his presenceknown
13 - Sam Gronn - A gri y defenderwhohateslosingoneon-ones
14 - Cambell Hateley - Goal kicking machine who plays tallerthanheis
15-LennyTunkin-AcleverU14 who finds a way to impact everycontest
16-ZacAsh-Adashingforward whohasimprovedoutofsight
18-LouieEasterby-Anathle c U14withuntappedpoten al
19 - William Wilson - A compe ve defender primed forabigfinals’series
20 - Ashton Linder - Versa le mid-fielder who reads the play verywell
21 - Adam Smith - A coachable wingmanwhoisn’tafraidofthe contests
22-Cur sShanks-AnU14who canplayanywhereonthefield
24 - Charlie DamhuisDetermined on-baller who rarelycomesoff2ndbest
44 - Max Hunt - A courageous forward with the ability to breakthegameopen
4 6 - B e a u D o u g l a sRebounding defender who useshisfootskillsandpacewell
57 - Liam Cawood - A selfless defender with growing poten al
58 - Cooper Todd - A no-fuss ruckman who does the li le thingswell
Middle Row: Brian Cawood (Team manager), William Wilson, Cooper Todd, Harrison Thwaites, Zach Ash, Beau Douglas, Liam Cawood,FinnGrimes(Coach)
BackRowL-R:DylanSigston,CambellHateley,AdamSmith,MaxHunt,SamGronn
3 - Lee McTaggart - Terrific skills and rarelybeatenbackman
5 - Mason Roppo ni - Talented hard runningmidfielder Co-captain
7 - Oliver McCracken - Fantas c leader who has very good allround game.Co-Captain
11 - Cruize McGregor - Fast wingmanwhousesballwell
13 - Ned Gazzard - Small lightening quickforward
19 - Isaac Salmon - Great goal sense andloveswinningcontestedball
21 - Cooper Fear - Great reader of theplayandveryelusive
34 - Pa y Sigley - Highly skilful midfielder
36 - Louis Fritche - Much improved player who loves bea ng his opponent
37 - Kur s Bentley - Never goes to groundandgreatballuser
41 - Hugh Bailey - Tough in and underplayerwholovestackling
43-MitchellMcCracken-Toughand veryskillfulle footer
47 - Brodie Jennings - Quick, never giveupa tude
61 - Rhiley Miller - Welcomed back late in season and has had a real impact
62 - Jobe Harten - Very talented allround footballer
63-JoshHaggart- Verytalentedle footer,whocanrunallday
64 - Alex Nunn - Clever, hard runnning backman who reads the ballwell
65 - Hunter Higgins - Very versa le playerwhorunsallday
66 - Henry Medhurst - Really improved player who can play anywhere
67 - Josh Vause - Quick forward who lovesagoal
68 - Henry Ken sh - Great mark and beau fulle footkick
69 - Jay Burns - Very disicplined
player,alwaysputsteamfirst
70 - Je A will - Much improved ruckmanwithgreatpace.
71 - Liam Cu ng - Very smart ball userwithterrificle foot
72 - Harrison Xanthopoulos - Tough and versa le player Good goal sense
76 - Truman Bryant - Tall first year player who has kicked some terrific goals
80 - Lauchlan Moss - Dedicated teammatewithgreatskills.
82 - Chase Kilpatrick - Hard running wingman.Greatle footkick
88-Sco McBain-ViceCaptainwho is small but has a real impact on games
Kobi Maxwell - Talented, tall, goal kickingforward.
Back Row L-R: Hugh Bailey, Henry Medhurst, Cruize McGregor, Jay Burns, Henry Ken sh, Louis Fritsche, Liam Cu ng, Chase Kilpatrick, Sco McCracken (Runner) Middle Row: James McGregor (Coach), Alex Nunn, Kobi Maxwell, Lee McTaggart, Truman Bryant,JobeHarten,Je A will,HunterHiggins,JoshVause,JoshuaHagge ,TerryBailey(TeamManager) FrontRow:Isaac Salmon, Ned Gazzard, Brodie Jennings, Harrison Xanthopoulos, Sco McBain, Mason Ropi ni (Captain), Oliver McCracken(Captain),Kur s Bentley,CooperFear,LachlanMoss,MitchellMcCrackenAbsent:Patrick SigleyBack Row L-R: Brock McEachern, Kobe Roulstone, Ethan Fle , Lincoln Holtham, James Butler, Mason Rogers, Jacob Vinko Second Row: Kobi Long, Ethan Brook, Charlie Waters, Fletcher Mobbs, Izac Richards, Jack Dyson, Banjo Stephens
Front Row: Levi Creek, Esaie Kulimushi (Vice Captain), Sam Baron (Captain), Sco Fle (Assistant Coach), Cooper Harris (Vice Captain), Cody Blanck, James Bryan Absent: Ryan Roulstone (Coach), Jess Roulstone (Team Manager), Penny Coleman, Mitch Chapman, Reid Hamilton, Charlie Wurst, Eathan Brook
improvementovertheseason.
opponentinapackcontest.
2 - Eamon Brooks – A welcomed returning player to the club, gives 100% effort and is versa le
– Loves a goal and shows an ability to use every possession to find ateammatetocreateopportuni es.
3 -
5 - James Bryan – Dependable one on one defender, rarely beaten and a great example of a team player and club person.
6-KobiLong–Reliableandposi veteam player who is confident to create space onthewing.
12 - Jacob Vinko – A no ceable voice on the ground that encourages and li s the teamandtheireffortswhenheard.
14 - Charlie Waters – An athle c ruckman that gives his on ballers first chance at the ball, his second efforts are valuabletotheteam.
great
16 - Izac Richards – A raw player that has shown improvement across the ground givingtheteamanxfactor
17 - Charlie Wurst – A no nonsense, reliable and consistent defender at full backwithtenacityinthecontest.
18 - Jack Dyson – A reliable backman, consistently puts pressure on their
19 -
– An accurate and exci ng forward player with great goal sense, his leadership is important forteamsuccess.
20-PennyColeman-Cleanhandsshown when in ruck and forward line, a resilient playerwithlotsofpoten al.
21 - Brock McEachern - Versa le and quiet achiever in both forward and back thatlovesanyopportunityaroundgoals.
26 - Fletcher Mobbs – Very likeable, coachable player that provides a strong presenceintheforwardline.
34 - Sam Baron (c) – A dynamic and respected player, his abili es and leadership are beyond his years and reflected as 2023's Western Border medallist.
54 - Cody Blanck – An elusive and crea ve on ball op on out of the centre andafantas crecruitforourclub.
99 - Mason Rogers – Naturally finds the footy and creates opportuni es when in possession, especially when deep forward.
Ethan Fle 10 - Levi Creek – A naturally defensive player with his second efforts in tackling, and to play either forwardorback. 9 - Ethan Brook – A classy and consistent decision maker in the backline, with a strongmarkinaoneononecontest Esaie Kulimushi (vc) 1 - Kobe Roulstone – A speedy athle c player on the wing with a great awareness of the ball to create space for thosearoundhim. 13 - Lincoln Holtham – A skilful and compe ve player that provides the team with op ons at either end of the field. 4 - Cooper Harris (vc) – He is valuable in his pace and ability to break the lines on the wing, with quick hands to his teammates. 11-ReidHamilton–Aclassyandreliable half back player with great kicking skills allround. 15 - Banjo Stephens – A strong compe ve u lity player, he has sportsmanship and is team orientated to ourbenefit.
Welcome all families, sponsors and supporters to what we believemaybethefinalGrandFinalDayundertheWBFLand WBNAbanners.
Change is on the way in some form and while solu ons may not always be clear, they are going to be necessary to meet the next set of challenges in the footy and netballlandscapes. I look forward to a compe onwith netballand football equal underasinglebannerwithafocusonfuturedevelopment!
We are going to have to embrace challenges to ensure we capture the best results we can for families in our region and rest assured the current commi ees at each clubandtheWBFLandWBNArepshavebeen relessina emp ngtodojustthat. A stable and resilient compe on with maximum par cipa on and development at its heart, is the goal and we need all those involved at each club to support the wayforwardwithenthusiasmanddrive.
To the WBFL and WBNA, Thankyou all for your efforts in 2023 under a bit of pressure.Yourworkdoesnotgoun-no cedandisdeeplyappreciated.Toourpanel umpires and own club umpires, thank you for each week sui ng up and ensuring wegetourgamesunderwayandwelladjudicated.
To Emma Horrigan and Bendigo Bank, Our major sponsor, we hopefully look forward to your con nued involvement heading into 2024. Sport in the region wouldnotandcouldnotoperateasitdoeswithoutyoursupportandvision.
To all the teams compe ng today and those that just missed out, Congratula ons on a stellar final's series. And to all the other teams at our fantas c clubs, Keep strivingforthatsuccessweallaspireto.
Andfinally,ToeveryoneattheMFNC,
Thanks for your support, sponsorship, game day a endance and volunteer effort! Ourclubisingreatshapeandapleasuretobeapartofandaprivilegetoserve.
ToOURTeamsplayingonthebiggestdayofouryear….Youknowwhatyouneedto do!
Youhaveallearnedtherighttobeheresoworkhard,inspireoneanotherandplay ourway,andwewillcelebrate2023togetherasoneclub.
Bestwishestoallfortheoff-season,
Joel
Grand final day and we have a lot to look forward to, with our U14s,U18sandseniorfootball,13As,15A&Bs,17snetballteams,allplayingofffor the ul mate prize. Let's hope we get some winners flags to bring home, but regardlesswecanbeproudofoureffortsin2023.
Thanks to the WBFL execu ve, led by Michael Summers, together with Michael Mourbey from the SANFL and all club presidents. I think we have broken the number of mee ngs record for a 12 month period, and hopefully we are ge ng closertoconfirmingwhatourclubssustainablefutureslooklike.
With our “One Club – All in” philosophy and due to our various commi ees, including management, football (including female) and netball, we have had a verysuccessfulyearalready,bothonandofftheoval/courts.Ourwomen'sfootball program is going from strength to strength with both our U16s and senior teams ge ngtothegrandfinal.
Noneofourfootballteamsplayingtodayarefavourites,butthatisjustthewaywe likeit.
The pundits haven't had our senior team in calcula ons all year and it is a credit to coach Hardy and the players to stay on track and play their best football at the businessendoftheseason.HopefullywecanstopaMillicent3peat.
Coach Bryan has again got the U18s flying and their best could be good enough againstaredhotSouthteam.
TheU14shavebeenbuildingforacoupleofyearsandcoachesRoulstoneandFle havele nostoneunturnedge ngthebestoutofthisgroup.
OurreservesandU16sseasonsfinishedattheendoftheminorround,butnotdue totheeffortsofcoaches,YoungandZietz,bothofwhomhadnumerousavailability issuestodealwith.
Thanks in par cular to our football commi ee, coaches, trainers, team managers, umpires, canteen ladies and anyone else that volunteered their me and effort during2023.
Congratula ons to everyone that was recognized at the WBFNL medal count, especiallyourfootballmedalistsinSamBaron(U14s)andTraeHamilton(U18s). Lastly, I want to thank our VERY loyal sponsors, par cularly Stuckey Electrical Contractors, KFC and Fasta Pasta – please support all of our sponsors when you can.
GoTigers.
Welcome everyone to BLSP for what should be a cracking day of Football and Netball to end a posi ve season for the league.Goodlucktoallinvolvedpar cularlytoour14’s,16’s and18’sfootballersandCGradenetballers.
It takes a lot to run a football and netballleague and thanks to Mick, Steph, Jill and Difortheworktheyhavedoneandtotheumpiresandtheclubpresidentsforwhat hasbeenahec cyear
To our club commi ee, coaches, managers, trainers, club umpires, runners, mekeepers, gate & canteen helpers, parents, supporters and past players who ensure that we have the ability to put football and netball teams on the park, I thankyouall.ToClubmanagerSeanHeeneyandCanteenmanagerJoMillerthank youformakingourlivessomucheasierwiththeworkthatyoudo.
Theworkdonearoundtheclubthisyeartoupgradethewindowshasseenamazing amounts of work from the tradies and a few very unskilled helpers has created a great improvement, its great to see our supporters in the club on the cold days enjoyingthefacility
ThankstoourmajorsponsorsMGPlasterers,MickRyanPain ng,LennonsonLake Terrace,DycerConstruc onsandAustralianGasNetworksyourcon nuedsupport isinvaluable.
Finally, thanks to our Footballers and Netballers its great to see everyone on the oval and court but even be er to see everyone step into roles helping organise events and volunteer whenever called upon, enjoy the off season and we look forwardtoseeingyoubackforpre-season.
Firstly West Gambier Football Netball Club would like to wishallpar cipa ngclubstodaygoodlucktoday
Hasbeenalonghardyearinmanyaspectswithsomuchuncertaintyintheairit’sa credit to all clubs who deliver week in week out. A big congratula ons to Roo for winning the Senior League Medal and Zac Hopgood For runner up in the 18s, Excellent effort and reward for great seasons. We also had the great honour of winning the “Champion Club of the Year Award” which is a great testament to the Hard work for all the Football and Netball commi ees, players, volunteers and supporters.
GoodlucktotheAgrade&Arestodayinthenetballfingerscrossed.
GetaroundtheplayersandhopetoseeyoucheeringontheRessieboys.
The club will be open tonight so come along and celebrate the year with us and enjoywhatwas2023.
Fridge
West Gambier 50 (S. Ri er, A. Cram) d
North Gambier 45 (S. Mobbs, M. Griffith)
A RESERVE
West Gambier 59 (C. Tremelling, G. Peterson) d
North Gambier 31 (A. Pitson, J. Li le)
A GRADE B GRADE
Millicent 38 (M. Fleming, J. Lang) d
West Gambier 32 (B. Jackway, C. Carraill)
C GRADE
East Gambier 41 (M. Wilson, B. Jean) d
North Gambier 30 (H. Fox, S. Nieuwenhuizen)
17 & UNDER
Millicent 47 (E. Easterby, L. Paul) d
Casterton Sandford 25 (I. Lane, M. Pa on)
15 & UNDER A
North Gambier 56 (K. Anderson, E. Adam) d
West Gambier 25 (L. Pearson, E. Jolley)
15 & UNDER B
North Gambier 35 (L. Brook, G. Nulty) d
West Gambier 25 (L. Pearson, A. Anderson)
13 & UNDER A
North Gambier 47 (L. Hunter, M. Harrold) d
West Gambier 19 (E. McKenny, C. Hunter)
13 & UNDER B
Millicent 32 (L. Van Eeden, A. Galambos) d
East Gambier 17 (S. McCracken, A. Olsen)
West Gambier’s premiership defence is s ll alive –just – a er the Roos survived a strong challenge from an impressive North Gambier in the A Grade preliminaryfinal.
It was the Tigers ge ng the be er of the start as they applied relentless defensive pressure, crea ng plenty of turnover ball from a usually composedWestfrontline.
Youngster Stella Mobbs, in her first A Grade final series, was the mastermind of most of those turnovers, with Lauran Norman also ge ng some important touches and using good hands pressure overtheballtoproducetheerrors.
At the other end, Macey Griffith was on fire, shoo ng a perfect nine straight to ensure the hard workofherteammateswasrewarded.
But West did get into gear eventually with goal defender Amy Cram leading the way with some cri cal intercep ons and with Lisa McGregor working over me to try and find a way to Ri er at the post, the Roos eventually clawed their way backtoaonegoalquarter melead.
The second quarter saw a reversal of the script with the Roos se ng up the early buffer as the error-free Tigers frontline started to make some mistakes on the feed and Jade Ri er and Cram wereonlytoohappytopickupthelooseballs. TheTigers,though,steadied,withtheworkrateof Mel Renko and Brianna Walters in transi on a key to arres ng the early West momentum and by the halfitwass llaonegoalgame.
The arm wrestle con nued in the third as Ri er started to find easier ball and she converted 12 from 12 to ensure the scoreboard, albeit narrowly stayedintheRoosfavour.
As it had been all game, it was a ght physical encounter with both teams having to use the back playtotheirtransverselineandthemidcourtsand goal a acks having to do a mountain of work to findtheirgoalersinspace.
It was a three goal game at the final break and the last quarter was as frene c as you would expect withagrandfinalberthontheline.
Once again, it was the reigning premiers that had the be er of the start with Jade Ri er and Cram picking up some key intercep ons and rebounds and at one stage the lead was seven but again North fought back but ran out of me to unseat the tleholders.
Mobbs was outstanding at goal keeper with her clen intercep ons, stunning deflec ons and strong rebounding, while Griffith played arguably herbestAGradematcheverasshedrovethebase with precision and had a much more prolific output than usual, ne ng 25 from 30 in a performance that included perfect shoo ng in the firstandlastquarters.
Renko and Walters were also key with their hard running, while Noni McConnell work McGregor like a glove and provided important transi on op ons and Mikaila Pi , who entered the clash in thesecondhalfhadacoupleofbigmomentsinthe last quarter when the Tigers were desperate for turnovers.
never stopped presen ng, Mikaela Horrigan delivered some ambi ous long range feeds and had good vision all day, while Zoe Malseed put pressure on the outside of the circle and also turnedintoakeya ackingop onwhenrequired.
Cram and Jade Ri er were two of the Roos best, taking those intercep ons just when they were needed and Cram also had to do a power of work as a link player and on the back play me and me again.
The four goal victory sets up a rematch of last season’s decider and given the second semi final between the two teams was a one goal nailbiter, it loomsasamatchnottobemissed.
Weststartedwellscoringthefirstfourgoalsbefore North answered through GS, Alisha Bryan. It was then West who dominated the scoreboard for the restofthequartertotakeamatch-winning10-goal quarter- melead.
West’s defensive pressure was relentless right from the first whistle with WD, Chelsea Tremelling gaining important touches and Madelyn Milich driving the ball out of defence to set up scoring opportuni es. Tahlia Earl was the dominant goalie on court scoring 14/16 in the first. North shot accuratelybuterrorsthroughthemidcourtlimited theiropportuni es.
The second quarter was again dominated by West’smidcourtinCarleeRansomandAnnaBosco controlled the tempo of the game and pa ently found Earl and GA, Gracie Peterson at the post. North’s Jessie Li le and Riley Mitchell ba led hard, but the speed of the ball was coming in too quickandWestwonthequarter18-8.
North made changes at the break bringing on Ava Collins to GK and West remained unchanged CollinsmatchedEarlforheightandchallengedany high balls. North’s Amanda O’Shaughnessy con nued to work hard through the centre for North but West’s defence in Milich and Rachael Langford were too strong and denied any easy accesstothepost.
The final quarter was more evenly matched as the game went goal for goal and Bryan found her range. At the other end, West’s Earl con nued to be the dominant goaler on the court and her side pushed ahead to record a 28-goal victory and win therighttochallengetheSaintsintheGrandFinal.
In a match that was expected to be a close contest the first quarter lived up to that expecta on as both sides went goal for goal. It took the Saints to the dying minutes of the game to finally break awayandrecorda6-goalwinagainstadetermined WestGambier
The second quarter remained the same as the midcourt ba les con nued to be a highlight Krystal Coghlan was applying defensive pressure throughthemiddle,causingerrorsinWest’sa ack with her ght checking style and Bianca Jackway was running hard to give her side an advantage. Domaschenz played her best quarter scoring 8/10 andGK,MichelleFlemmingreboundedanymissed shots to help her side take a three-goal advantage atthemainbreak.
Both sides main changes at half- me with West bringingonGA,ElyshaGilliesandtheSaintsJordyn Iovino entered the match at centre. Iovino added speed and teamed well with Coghlan across the defensive centre where they caused errors and Coghlan picked up crucial intercepts to help her side take a match winning 8 goal lead at the last change.
The last quarter was a ght affair as West made a fight back through the defensive efforts of Brooke HolmesandDaenaWombwell.Misseda emptsat goal by the Saints were rebounded by Wombwell and transi oned though Jackway and with Gillies finishing well, West closed the gap to 4 goals with five minutes to play The Saints se led in the last fewminutesandwithLangfinishingthegoodwork they were able to hold on and take the win by 6 goals.
The Saints now have the opportunity to see if they can match the talented Casterton Sandford to causeanupsetintheBGradeGrandFinal.
It was always going to be a tough contest and despite East Gambier star ng as favourites, a determined North Gambier weren’t going down without a fight and that it was for majority of the match.
East started strongly through the composure of Megan Wilson as she dominated the scoreboard early finishing with 10/11 for the quarter While she was a strong target it was the work out front from Zena Creek and Tamara Janeway that helped tosetupthe4-goalquarter- melead. North’s Milly Allen con nued her good form holding well in the goal circle and being a strong target despite the pressure from East’s Brooklyn Jean. Jean combined well with GD, Chloe Lines to restrict the North goalies to just 6 a emptsfor the quarter This was despite the work from North’s WA, Keeley Quinn who was receiving majority of the centre passes and providing plenty of op ons ina ack.
North made three changes at the main break and the match went for goal for goal before East’s GS, Millie Bu on found her range shoo ng 9/11 and was well fed by Wilson who was crea ve in a ack. North added height in their defensive end with KelsieAndersonenteringatGKandcombiningwell with Sarah Nieuwenhuizen but East were again abletoextendtheirleadandhavea16-goalmatch winningleadatthefinalchange.
Despite the efforts of Mobbs, Sarah Ri er was s ll influen al for the Roos, showing great composure under intense physical pressure and her 48 from 58, including that perfect third quarter helped set upthewin.
In wet condi ons both sides were pa ent with their entry into the goal circle. The Saints GS, Nicole Domaschenz was the focal point in the a ackline,usingherheightandstrengthtogainan advantage. She was well fed by GA, Josie Lang and WA, Kalli Brown. At the other end West’s GA, Caitlyn Carrail was the playmaker in a ack as she not only did a lot of work out front se ng the play and finished with 8 for the quarter With scores all ed up at the quarter me break the match was settobe ght. McGregor did a mountain of work, Tara Bryant
North saved their best netball for the last as they outscored East by 5 and scored their highest total for the match. North’s Kahlia Egan re-entered the game at centre and steadied her team with her pa ent entry into a ack. It was all too late though asEast’sleadwastoomuchforNorthtoovercome and East Gambier secure a spot into the 2023 C GradeGrandFinal.
CGRADE BGRADEThe previous encounters between these two sides have been ght and the first quarter started the same before the Saints put their foot down and finished with a 22-goal win to book a spot in the GrandFinalagainstNorthGambier.
The match started well with both teams scoring from their centre pass and the mid courters domina ng the play The Saints, Lillie Paul was dominant early hi ng circle edge to find Denton, who scored from long range. At the other end the Cats, Indi Longhurst was finding space in the a ack third, however the pressure from Lauren Van Eeden and Edie Easterby denied access to the post. The Saints went into the quarter me break with a 7goallead.
ThesecondquarterstartedevenlywiththeCat’sGS, Ivy Laneworkinghardtofindspaceinthegoalcircle and finishing well. The Saints GA, Poppy Venn used her speed to open the goal circle and find GS, Keelie Lindner at the post. The Cats GK, Sarah Richardson applied plenty of pressure, however the ball speed was too much to contain. Easterby con nued to dominate in defence and was well supported Maya Tarrant who rebounded strongly The Saints held a 12-goalleadatthehalf mebreak.
The Saints con nued to rotate their bench and the Catsmadechangesatthebreak,swingingLonghurst intoCentre.Herba lewithPaulwasa ghttussleas both players con nued to get plenty of the ball.
With Denton back on at GS the Saints were able to break away as Paul fed long balls and Denton finished with 9 for the quarter Venn combined well with WA, Jamie Lucas to ensure the Saints again extendedtheirleadatthefinalchange.
The Cats swung the changes for the final quarter, anditworkedintheirfavourasitwasagoalforgoal.
The weather turned bad, and the slippery condi ons caused both teams to make errors. Lane scored well for the Cats and Easterby con nued to dominate taking intercepts all over the court. The Saints finished with a 22-goal win and the right to challengeNorthGambierinthe tledecider
Best players for the Saints Easterby and Paul and for theCats,LaneandPa on.
North Gambier has earned another crack at Millicent a er powering to a 56-25 preliminary final victory over West Gamber, taking the final place in the2023grandfinal.
Stopping supply to North shooter Mischa Human was always going to be the biggest headache for West and the tall shooter proved to be the problem theywouldhaveenvisaged.
Human received quality ball from Maggie Collins, Georgia Nulty and Elodie Adam and her 13 from 16 inthefirstquarterhelpedtheTigersracetoa12goal quarter meadvantage.
The speed of the North mid court was proving an issue, allowing them to move the ball efficiently as wellwhilefortheRoositwasama erofsupply.Ella Jolley was presen ng well on the a acking wing but the pressure from the Tigers defence saw West generate only five scoring opportuni es for the quarter
The Roos, to their credit, rallied strongly in the second, winning it by one and going into the half mebreak11goalsdown.
West shooter Lila Pearson started to be a factor holding strongly and ne ng an impressive eight from 11 as West, through the defensive pressure of Alice Allen and Mikayla Pearson and the hard
runningofLaraMurdoch–whoenteredthegameat quarter me–startedtofindtheirgroove.
The third quarter was also hard fought with Kelsie Anderson and Raine Darimaani crea ng plenty of turnoverballandwithHumanandAdamconver ng 14from17,thescoreboardcon nuedtobestrongly intheTigers’favour
It was one way traffic again in the last quarter and while Mikayla Pearson con nued to apply good defensive pressure, the weight of supply told and Human was able to enjoy her most produc ve quarter of the game, shoo ng 16 from 17 in a dominantdisplay
Jolley and Swaye Lindner con nued to run hard for the Roos but ge ng through the AndersonDarimaani defence proved difficult and Isabella Stafford, who entered the game in the final quarter at goal keeper, slo ed in nicely to maintain that pressure.
In the end, North’s dominant start set up the convincing win with Anderson and Adam the best fortheTigersandJolleyandLilaPearsonbestforthe Roos.
The opening term saw a closely contested ba le, as both teams capitalized on turnovers and centrepass opportuni es to convert accurately. West’s, Lila Pearson was a strong target at GA, while at the other end North’s GS, Claire Mitchell used her height and strength to ensure the contest was close and at the break the score was locked at 10 goals each.
West made changes at quarter me with Maya Lynch entering at C and Brydee Starick at WD North’s, Lily Brook con nued to dominate the midcourt, combining well with WA, Lacey Allen to deliver the ball to Mitchell who shot 9 for the quarter to be the dominant shooter North’s defenders, Penny Coleman and Isabella Stra ord ghtenedupandrestrictedtheaccesstoPearsonto helpNorthtakea4-goalleadatthemainbreak.
The third quarter started well with a goal for goal ba le before Coleman and Stra ord again dominatedwithColemantaking melyinterceptsin thegoalthirdanddrivingtheballintoa ack.North’s Mia Griffith stepped up her work rate, combining well with Mitchell and becoming a scoring threat. West’s GK, Analeigh Anderson con nued her work rate to get some vital touches, however missed shots by West allowed North to extend their lead andbe8goalsinfrontatthelastchange.
West fought hard in the last quarterdespite the wet condi ons se ng in and with Pearson back under the post and they pegged the lead back before North’s WD, Georgia Nulty se led her side, ge ng some important touches in the defence end to ensure North increased their lead. The accuracy of the North goalies in the last quarter was an important factor as they scored 7/8 a empts while Westwereforcedtoshootlongandscored5/14.
North’s mid court dominated the game with Brook being named best and was well supported by Nulty West were best served by Pearson in goals and Anderson in defence. North will now enter the GrandFinalagainsttheSaints.
North Gambier got off to a flying start in the 13 & under A preliminary final, se ng up an early buffer and West Gambier just couldn’t find a way to peg it back.
The first quarter belonged to two Tigers –Mackenzie Harrold, who took a number of clean
intercep ons as well as key deflec ons and Lacey Hunter, who found space at will and ne ed eight straight.
The hard running of Jenna Baron and defensive pressure from Amelie Adam was also key and while the Roos recovered late on the back of some Ella Mckenny brilliance and Claire Hunter and Isla Lynch securing late turnovers, the margin at quarter me wassix.
Fromthatpointon,NorthjustbultitsleadwithWest struggling to find a way through the full court defensive pressure and just not ge ng enough scoringopportuni estomakeadentinNorth’slead.
It was nine at half me with Carey Grivell working her way into the contest at goal shooter, holding strongly and nailing some stunning long range a emptsanda eranotherperfectshoo ngquarter in the third from Lacey Hunter, the lead ta the final changewas20.
TheTigersalsodominatedthelasttoadvancetothe grand final on the back of a confidence building 28 goalvictory.
Harrold, who carried her first quarter form right throughout the match crea ng more turnover ball thananyotherplayeroncourt,whileBaronranhard both ways, Lacey Hunter and Grivell made sure the scoring opportuni es counted and Adam rebounded strongly Grace Collins was composed with ball in hand and presented strongly, while Ava Halloran drove hard through the mid court to turn defenceintooffence.
McKenny, Claire Hunter and Isla Lynch were best for theRoos,withsomehardrunningfromMiaJackway alsoprovidingsomegoodtransi onopportuni es
A er a ghtly contested first quarter the Millicent Saints pulled away in the second half to run out comfortable 14 goal winners and advance to the Grand Final against the talented Casterton Sandford.
Both teams started nervously, and early turnovers saw the match go end for end without scoreboard damage. The Saints started to find their a acking flow and with Goalies, Lindy Van Eeden & Brydie Madden finding her range at the post and C, Prudence Johnson controlling the midcourt, the Saintstookanearlyleadby4goals.
East se led through the good work of GS, Isabelle Cook. She found her range and combined well with C, Sailor McCracken whose speed was a highlight in the midcourt. Tight defensive pressure from both sides ensured low scoring un l Van Eeden found space and finished with 7 for the quarter. The Saints defenders Olivia Hales and Audrey Galambus were able to get some important touches and the Saints extendedtheirleadtobe7goalsinfrontatthemain break.
Changes were made at the main break and the Saints mid court used their speed with Lacey Sunderland hi ng circle and combining well with Lo e Ma hews to find VanEeden, who con nued to be the dominant scorer on court. East’s Ava Hosking made some important intercepts, combiningwellwithOlsen,howevertheSaintswere abletoextendtheirleadby13atthelastchange.
With more players rotated at the final change by both sides the quarter was evenly contested. The Saints moved Johnson to GD and she read the ball well to take some mely intercepts. The Saints controlled the ball in their a acking third and went on to win by 15 goals to earn the right to challenge CastertonSandfordintheGrandFinal.
Back (L-R): Coach Emily Osborne, Georgia Bailey, Marlee Robbins, Adele Murphy,IsabellaLuers,StaceyEdwards,CoachPrueAdey
Front (L-R): Renee Gorman, Chloe Kurzman, Zoya Syed, Ylana Grigg, BrooklynMutch.
Casterton Sandford will start the 13 & Under B grand final warm favourites but the Cats will know nottotakeMillicentlightly Aftera slowstarttotheseason,theSaints havefoundtheirmojoandworked their way through the 2023 finals series, building confidence week onweek.
For the Cats Adele Murphy and Renee Gorman are a reliable shooting combination, while at the other end, the tall defensive combination of Ylana Grigg, who
finishedinthetopfiveinboth13& under grades at the association medal count, and Zoya Syed c h a l l e n g e a l l s h o o t i n g combinations, especially with their dominance in the air, work over the shot and rebounding capabilities.
Safe to say, though, the Saints are also well equipped at both ends of thecourt.
TheshootingcombinationofLindy Van Eeden and Brydie Madden have built across this finals series and are coming off a strong preliminary final performance, whiledefensivelytheSaintshavea
Back (L-R): Keelie Lindner (Coach), Lindy Van Eeden (Co-Captain), Brydie Madden, Clara Vella, Sophie Walker, Audrey Galambos (Co-Captain)
Front (L-R): Prudence Johnson, Lacey Sunderland, Olivia Hales, Lo e Ma hews
plethoraofoptions.
Audrey Galambos anchors the defensive end, combining well with Olivia Hales, who also plays animportantroleonthedefensive wing, Prudence Johnson, who was runner up best and fairest in this grade, and plays mid court and goals as well, and Sophie Walker, a toughoneononedefender
The mid courts of both teams are alsoquality.
Marlee Robbins runs hard both ways in centre for the Cats, while Brooklyn Mutch is a steadying
influence on the attacking wing and Georgia Bailey is as tenacious as they come. Stacey Edwards and Isabella Luers supplement that mid court and give the Cats plenty ofoptionstorunfreshlegs
Millicent has the smarts of Lottie Matthews on the attacking wing, LaceySunderland’sspeedinanyof the mid court roles and Johnson, Hales and the tenacity of Clara Vella, who is the quiet achiever of thisline-up.
This looms as a tight contest with the Cats just prevailing in a nailbiter
In the 13 & under A second semi final, Millicent got off toaflyeranddominatedthe contest but this weekend will not be a lop sided contest.
The Tigers found their groove at the weekend with a dominating victory of their own but it was a game that saw many of its key players play themselves backintoform.
Millicent are deserved favourites heading into the title decider- not just based on their second semi final performance but because ofthequalityoftheline-up.
association best and fairest Lucy Crowe dominates the mid court and her battle with Jenna Baron will be one of the key battle this weekend.
So will the clash between Saints wing attack Olive Thorne, who is a reliable and composed performer, and Mackenzie Harrold, who is coming off a best on court performance in the preliminary final after she took a number of clean interceptions as well as important deflections and chasingoflooseballs.
Millicent has speed to bur with Scarlett Zalme and her battle with Grace Collins,
who rarely made an error with ball in hand in the preliminary final, will be anothercrucialmatchup.
One of the big challenges for North is stopping supply to Amarlie Thomson The impressive shooter finished runner up in the association medal count and she dominated the second semi final, nailing 42 from 46, including an impressive 11 straight in the opening quarter.
Thomson is well supported by Indi Coghlan and the Saints shooting duo willtest Tigers defenders Amelie Adam and Ava Halloran, who both performed well
lastweekend.
One of the reasons, the Tigers would have a level of confidenceheadingintothe grand final is the form of Carey Grivell and Lacey Hunter at the weekend They combined well and finished accurately and will be looking to put in a strong performance against the tough defensive Saints combination of Lola Ferguson and Audrey Galalmbos, with the possibility of Crowe also heading into the defensive circle.
This won’t be a blowout but the Saints will still get the jobdone.
Back (L-R): Lillie Paul (Coach), Lola Ferguson, Amarlie Thomson (Captain), Lucy Crowe (Vice Captain), Kimberley Crowe (Team Manager) Front (L-R): Lindy Van Eeden, Indiana Coghlan, Scarle Zalme, Olive Thorne,AudreyGalambos Front(L-R):PiperLucas,MackenzieHarrold,CareyGrivell,JennaBaron Back (L-R): Kylie Collins (manageress), Grace Collins, Lacey Hunter, Ava Halloran, Amelie Adam, Tayah Jones (team support) & Rosie Collins (coach)
The 15 & Under B grand final looms as one of the nail biting contests of the day.
When Millicent and North Gambier faced off in the second semi final it took until the final quarter when Tahnee Grosser dominated the attack end for the Saints and Jeda Hibberd and Eva Crowe created some critical turnovers that the Saints were able to breakaway andsecurethewin. And those three Saints will
again be critical in shaping theoutcomethisweekend.
As will Asha Gysbers, who isastrongandsmartplayer through the mid court, while Emily Walker is a great foil for Grosser, workinghardtomakegood space and accurate on the finish.
Lainie Rainsford, Ella MatthewsandLexiNicholls roundoutthemidcourtfor Millicent and give coach Lisa Duldig plenty of options if change is required.
N o r t h ’ s s h o o t i n g
combination of Claire M i t c h e l l , w h o w a s crowned the association best and fairest at the junior medal count, and Mia Griffith complement each other and if they can get enough supply, the Tigers will be right in the contest.
At the other end, Isabella Stafford anchors the defensive end and with Penny Coleman not available, Raine Darimaani will n doubt take a role in the defensive circle and
her battle with Grosser could well shape the match.
The Tigers mid court has the speed of Lily Brook, , whileLaceyAllenisreliable on the attacking wing and Zoe Dinnison takes care of the defensive wing, with Georgia Nulty and Jenna Baronalsoavailabletotake amidcourtrole.
One of the tougher results to predict, the Saints might just get up in an arm wrestle.
On the back of a 25 goal opening quarter from newly crowned association best and fairest Stella Mobbs, North Gambier easily took care of Millicent in the second semi final.
The 23 goal margin suggests this weekend’s title decider will again be lop sided and while the Tigers are clear favourites there are a couple of new facts to add into evidence.
InthesecondsemifinalPoppy Venn and Edie Easterby were unavailable due to injury –
they returned to the court at the weekend and they indisputably strengthen the Saintssignificantly
Easterby adds some class to the defensive line or the mid court, and she was best on courtinthepreliminaryfinal–suchisherinfluence.
Venn gives Millicent coach Morgen Lindner options – she cantakeashootingroleoradd bitetothemidcourt. Andthatisamidcourtalready blessed with Lillie Paul, who is smart and composed at all times and has the ability to win the ball back, as well as the reliable Jaimie Lucas and tightcheckingBreeWatson.
The smarts and long range accuracy of Abby Denton cannot be underestimated and then there is the defensive grunt of Maya TarrantandMackinleeAlcock.
StoppingsupplytoMobbswill be the key mission of the Saints and that will be tough when you have Macey Griffith not only delivering the ball but shooting plenty of goals herself–theTigersgoalattack comingoffastunningAGrade preliminary final at the weekend.
The mid court is also all class
with Cara Nulty, Coco Mackereth, Tora Jones while specialist wing defence Jayme Young has selflessly taken the goal defence bib in the absence of the injured Luca Roulstone and she willgo step forstepwithLynchtolimither influence.
Ava Collins heads up that defensiveendandsheismore than capable of creating turnoverswhenrequired.
The Saints will absolutely narrow the margin but stopping Mobbs and Griffith from posting a winning score justseemstotoughanaskand theTigerswillprevail.
Back(L-R):AshleeKalatarian(managress),MikailaPi (assistantcoach), Luca Roulstone, Macey Griffith (captain), Stella Mobbs, Ava Collins, Cara Nulty, Caroline Wakefield (coach) Front (L-R): Coco Mackereth (vice captain),SarahBrown,JaymeYoung,ToraJones Back(L-R): ShaleneVenn(TeamManager),MackinleeAlcock,LaurenVan Eeden, Edie Easterby, Maya Tarrant, Lillie Paul, Morgen Lindner (Coach) Front (L-R): Jaimie Lucas, Poppy Venn, Abby Denton (Co-Captain), Keelie Lindner(Co-Captain),BreeWatsonMillicentwasimpressivein the 15 & under A second semi final and while the Tigers easily got the job done in the preliminary final, missing captain and star defender Ruby Mitchell for the title deciderwilldolittletohelp their cause in reversing that21goalloss.
The two sides have had some quality battles over the course of the season but the Saints are clear favouritesinthisbattle.
Mitchellisahugeomission and while Raine Darimaani is an athletic defender, her move into the defensive circle alongside the tight checking Kelsie Anderson, takes her away from the wing defence role she has masteredin2023. Thatbeingsaid,thequality mid court of Maggie Collins and Georgia Nulty a n d t h e s h o o t i n g combination of Mischa Human on the hold and Elodie Adam taking on the long range shot, North has
plentyofquality.
It is just the Saints also have quality in every role oncourt.
Kalani Dunn has had a break out season in goal shooterandcombineswell withMyleeLynch,whohas impeccable timing and is accurateonthefinish.
Atthedefensiveend,Emily Denton has the height to match Human while Matti Fauchelle has the agility to runwithAdam.
The mid court has three players – Piper Paul, Mia Gysbers and Bell Coghlanwho are all smart, have speed to burn and play as hard defensively ad they dowithballinhand.
M i l l i c e n t n o t o n l y dominated the second semi final but had they finished more accurately, they may wellhave won by moresoitishardtomount a case for the Tigers reversingthatresult.
Front (L to R) Tahnee Grosser, Mia Gysbers, Piper Paul (Captain), Mylee Lynch,SebellaCoghlan Back (L to R): Donna Denton (Coach), Jeda Hibberd, Ma ria Fauchelle, EmilyDenton,KalaniDunn,EvaCrowe,JillPaul(TeamManager) Insert:MischaHuman Front(LtoR)ElodieAdam,MaggieCollins,LilyBrook,GeorgiaNulty Back (L to R) Allison Anderson (manageress), Ruby Mitchell (captain), KelsieAnderson,RaineDarmaani&BriannaWalters(coach)In the second semi final, theCGradeclashbetween South Gambier and East G a m b i e r we nt i nto overtime.
Thereisnothingtosuggest the weekend’s title decider will be no less tense.
Both sides have classy defenders – South with Cheslea Dunn, who finished third in the association medal count, and East with runaway
association best and fairest winner Brooklyn Jean.
Bothsideshaveimpressive shooting combination –South with the experience of Brooke Winterfield and athleticism of Alannah Clayton, while East has the always accurate Megan Wilsonandthestrengthon the hold of Millie Button andKatieGaffney.
Zena Creek controls the attacking end for East, while Misty Dalton plays
that same role for the Demons, who have a deep mid court that includes Ash Kuhl, Jade Jennings andJessMcGregor
Grace Ferguson is a key in the Bulldogs mid court –she creates critical turnovers and uses her speed to great effect as a link player, while Tamara Perryman provides a steadying influence in the centre.
Ella Egan looms as a wild cardwithherabilitytoplay a role for South in the mid court or shooting circle, in
fact, the versatility o the South line-up that has players like Mel Kuhl, C l ay t o n , D u n n a n d McGregor able to play multipleroles.
Both sides would be lookingtocutdownonthe unforced errors and accuracy in the shooting circle will be a key but the depth of the Demons will see them prevail but not before everyone’s nerves havebeentested.
Back (L-R): Larnka Foran (Coach), Brooke WInterfield, Alannah Clayton, Chelsea Dunn, Misty Dalton Front (L-R): Jade Jennings, Ash Kuhl, Ella Egan,JessMcGregor,MelKuhl Back (L-R): Susan Bu on (Manageress), Daniela Waters, Ka e Gaffney, ErynCaruso,BrooklynJeanFront(L-R):ChloeLines,MillieBu on,Tamara Janeway(Captain),ZenaCreek(Coach),MeganWilson,GraceFergusonCasterton Sandford will start the B Grade grand finalasfavourites.
The Cats have a tall goal shooter in Shelby Nolte who has improved every single outing this season. They have association best and fairest Trictia Cleary not just feeding Nolte with precision but finishing accurately herself.
Then there is the mid court of young speedster Amber Balzan, strong
driving centre Anna Whillas, experienced wing defender Kerri Harveyandathleticutility DakotaCrawford.
Defensively Emma Grigg leads the charge with her tight checking and ability to get her hands on the ball to create turnovers, with Jess Cousins and y o u n g s t e r S a r a h Richardson taking the goal keeper bib to back Griggup.
But Millicent are not without their chances,
especially with Michelle Flemingnotruledoutdue to her second semi final hand injury but ready to takeonNolte.
Fleming will also rely on the support of Veronica Duncan, who is a tight checking defender with good reach, as well as pressure from the mid court, especially centre Krystal Coghlan, who will no doubt be damaging at bothendsofthecourt.
The Millicent front line will be looking to find
ways to find Nicole Domaschenz in good space at the post, with Josie Lang and Kate Patten taking the other shooting role, while Kalli Brown brings leadership, a strong voice and plenty ofnoustothewingattack role.
It is hard to see the Cats not taking the title but they will be wise not to take a rejuvenated Saints line-uplightly
Front (L-R): Kerri Harvey, Anna Whillas, Shelby Nolte, Jess Cousins, ChelseaHulm Back(L-R):CoachHayleeRhook,EmmaGrigg,SarahRichardson,Dakota Crawford,Tric aCleary,AmberBalzan,AssistantCoachPrueAdey Back(L-R): KristyRyan(TeamManager)JosieLang,NicoleDomaschenz, MichelleFleming(Coach), Amy-Lee Byrne, Angela Sine! (Team Manager) Front(L-R):KatePa en,KrystalCoghlan,VeronicaDuncan(Captain),Kalli Brown,JordynlovinoAbsent:MayaTarrantThe margin in the A Reserve second semi final between Millicent and West Gambier, belied a tough opening half and was not reminiscent of the clashes between the two sidesduringtheseason.
Thereisnoreasontothinkthe margin will be anywhere in the vicinity of that 19 goal margin.
Controlling the scoring power of Donna Denton, who was named joint association best & fairest at the weekend medal count, will be priority one for West Gambier and while that puts the pressure
onRachealLangford,whowas celebrated for her 300 senior games at the weekend medal count as well, it will take efforts defensively from all herteammates.
Langford is a tight checking defender who will wear Denton like a glove while her partner in crime in circle defence Maddie Milich will need to do likewise with Abby Denton and Rylee Kenny, as they are the creative goal attacks who feed the ball to theexperiencedshooter Jackie Sunderland is also key with her connection to Denton, as well as her
defensive efforts and that is why she was the other winner of the association best & fairest.
Her battle with Anna Bosco, who also finished in the best andfairesttopfive,willbeone of the key matchups on the day, with Chelsea Tremelling alsopossiblycalledontoquell theinfluenceofSunderland.
CarleeRansomisalsoakeyfor the Roos and her battle with AlicePratt,whoisanexpertat shutting down opponents will bepivotalinthefinalresult.
T h e W e s t s h o o t i n g combinationofTahliaEarland
Gracie Peterson has had a stunning season and with Earl strong at the post and Peterson strong on the drive, Saints defenders Nikeisha Facey and Keeley Stuart will needtobeattheirbest.
The Millicent defensive duo certainly got the job done in the second half of the second semi final but West ’s demolition of North Gambier in the preliminary final will see the Roos enter this clash fullofconfidence.
It will be a much closer result but Millicent should still get thejobdone.
Back (L to R) Michelle Skeer, Abby Denton, Donna Denton (Coach), Edie Easterby, Nikeisha Facey Front (L to R) Rylee Kenny, Keeley Stuart, Alice Pra (Co-Captain), Poppy Venn, Jackie Sunderland Absent: Alana Craig (Co-Captain),KathyStuart(TeamManager) Back(LtoR) TeamManager:KimSimpson,LucySimpson,MaddieMilich, Tahlia Earl, Gracie Peterson, Coach: Racheal Langford, Ellie Xanthopoulos. Front (L to R) Charlo e Sco , Chelsea Tremelling, Carlee Ransom,AnnaBosco,AleishaPearson Jackie Sunderland Donna Denton Carlee RansomIt was a match of the highest quality when Millicent and West Gambier faced off in the second semi final and there is no reason not to think this weekend’s premiership decider willbeanydifferent.
West had to fight hard to take care of North Gambier in the preliminary final but showed when things weren’t clicking and when the pressure was on, theywerestillabletoworkhard andfindaway
Sarah Ritter looms large and she was the difference in the 2022 decider with her best on court performance.Ritterhad a tough day at the office in the preliminary final against Stella Mobbs but she refused to concede and in the end, netted 52 from 57, including the first and third quarters where she didnotmiss.
Portia McRae will have the job ofmindingRitterandshewillbe all too aware of reducing her access to the ball. McRae will alsoneedtoworkhardoverthe shot and block hard on the rare rebounding opportunities to createturnoverball.
Ritter is well served by her shooting team mate Lisa McGregor – the recently crowned team of the year playingcoach–andsheshowed in the preliminary final that she is not afraid of hard work and presenting for multiple passes to keep the ball in Roos hand untilRitteropensup.
in the preliminary final and whether she is matched up on Kimmi Tincknell, who had an impressivesecondsemifinal,or Lisa Duldig, they will need to place hands pressure over every delivery to try and force anerror
Tara Bryant is another Roo who covered plenty of distance on the court in the second semi final and her match up with Duldig or Lille Paul will be integral to the final result with all three players, fit, fast and as effectiveat the offensiveend as they are in being a defensive threat.
Sanderson in space but if anyone is up to the challenge it is Cram and she had a great d re s s re h e a rs a l i n t h e preliminary final when she shared her time between denying her opponent the ball while also helping out defensive partner Jade Ritter with denying a tall shooter the ball.
Mikaela Horrigan delivered some stunning long range balls
Perhaps the most important match up on the day is Amy Cramtakingonassociationbest andfairestDemiVerbena.
Her battle with Lauren Van Eeden, who will need to go step for step with the experience goal attack will be one of the matchdefiningbattles. Verbena is critical to the Saints’ fortunes with her strong front cuts, speed on the drive and ability to find Tabatha
Cram and Jade Ritter were the players who took some critical interceptions and some hard fought rebounds in the tense preliminary final and their ability to do that again will be pivotalintheRoos’premiership defence.
It has been tight all season between these two teams and was a one goal margin a fortnight ago. Simply too close to call but a match not to be missed.
Back(LtoR)MichelleSkeer(Co-Coach),LaurenvanEeden,Por aMcRae, Tabatha Sanderson, Donna Denton (Co-Coach), Georgia Clarke (Team Manager) Front (L to R) Daisy Tunkin, Demi Verbena (Co-Captain), Lisa Duldig(Co-Captain),KimmiTincknell,LilliePaul
Front(LtoR) AnnaBosco,ZoeMalseed,TaraBryant
Asweapproachthefinalandmostan cipatedroundof the year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey we've had in the Western Border NetballAssocia on.It'sanabsolutethrilltohaveallour clubsrepresentedongrandfinalday Seeingthevibrant array of club colors on display reminds us that this is what true country netball is all about - a community comingtogetherinthespiritofsportsmanship.
Iwanttoextendmyhear eltgra tudetothededicated umpires and volunteers from each club who work relessly to make our game days a reality Your commitment and passion are the backbone of our associa on, and without you, none of this would be possible.
Last weekend's medal count was a testament to the talent and dedica on within our associa on. It was fantas c to see players from all clubs featuring in the top 5 leaders across the grades. Congratula ons to all the individual award winners Your outstanding displays of netball throughout the year have le us all inawe.
On the horizon, we have the Country Championships over the June long weekend. I'm thrilled to announce that our 13 & under championship team clinched victory in Division 1 under the guidance of Coach Cara Pearson. Our 15 & under championship team put up a strong fight and secured the runner-up posi on in Division 1, while the 15 & under development team
also showed their prowess with a runner-up finish in Division 3. Unfortunately, our 17 & under team faced a heart-wrenching loss in the semi-finals due to a central ming error, pushing them to play an extra 2 minutes andfallingshortby2goals.Ourseniorteamalsogaveit theirallbutcameupshortinthesemi-finals.
I'd like to extend my warm congratula ons to the Casterton/Sandford players who were selected to representtheGlenelgRegionteams.IntheOpenteam, we have Caeleigh Humphries, Madalene Cleary, and Tori Broomby The 17 & Under team includes Indi Longhurst, Ivy Lane, Phoebe Carlin, and Madeline Pa on (training partner). The 15 & Under team boasts Ylana Grigg, Caitlyn Gorman, and Brydie Carlin. I'd also like to acknowledge Imogen McGregor from West Gambier for making it to the 17 & Under team. Your achievementsmakeusimmenselyproud.
The Associa on also had 5 young ladies from the 15As compe on selected to learn from some amazing CountryandCityspecialistcoaches.Theseplayerswere selectedintheAdelaideThunderbirdsTalentAcademy The program is a pathway to assist the country players inhavinganearlyinsighttothestatenetballprograms. It also allows the state and premier league coaches to seethetalenttheSouthEasthas.
Congratula ons to Gracie Dalton, Kelsie Anderson, Emily Denton, Kalani Dunn and Piper Paul. We are also lucky enough to have one of our most decorated
coaches, Donna Denton, also be part of this program assis ng with taking the girls through their monthly trainingsessions.
I want to express my gra tude to the Western Border Football League Board for their unwavering support and guidance during my first season as President. It's been a learning experience, and their assistance has beeninvaluable.
A hear elt thank you goes out to my incredible execu ve team for their reless efforts and countless hoursofhardwork.Yourdedica onisinspiring,andit's thanks to your collec ve efforts that we've had such a successfulseason.
As we look ahead to next year, we are already working towards making our compe on even bigger and be er Stay tuned for exci ng developments in the nearfuture.
Finally, I wish all the teams the best of luck in their grandfinalsthisSaturday Maythespiritoffairplayand camaraderie prevail, and may the best teams emerge victorious.
Thank you all for your support and dedica on to the WesternBorderNetballAssocia on.
