Eagles’ eyes on first-up win at home
REIGNING A-grade netball premier Maiden Gully YCW has some new faces on court for Saturday’s start to the Bendigo Bank Loddon Valley Football Netball League season.
The Eagles face Marong in the first-round match at Maiden Gully’s Marist College Oval from 5.30pm.
Beaten just twice in the run to last year’s premiership, the Christie Griffiths-coached Maiden Gully YCW bounced back from a 46-42 loss to Marong in round one to mark a 13-game winning streak.
Both line-ups have new coaches for this campaign.
Adam Boldiston takes charge at Maiden Gully YCW, and Marong will be led by Sue Borserio.
Both bring plenty of experience to their clubs.
Newcomers to the Eagles squad include Jayne Norton in defence, and mid-courters Arriah Keogh and Tia Reaper.
Marong was one of the most active on the recruiting front.
The Panthers have gained Danielle O’Toole who also takes on the role as joint captain.
Other new players at Marong include Briella Gibbs, Mel Oliver, Laurel Prowse, Tess Tegglelove and Abby Thompson.
Another big match will be at John Forbes Oval where Mitiamo takes on Bridgewater at 3pm.
Runners-up last season, Mitiamo has kept all but one player from its grand final line-up.
The Superoos have added Caitlyn Hocking to the defence.
It’s a tough start for the Aimie Brown-coached Bridgewater which faces both of last season’s grand finalists across the opening two rounds.
Inglewood marks its return to A-grade when it plays Bears Lagoon-Serpentine on the Blues’ court at Dissy Machinery Oval from 3pm.
The Blues appointed Helen Ward and Dianne Wayman as joint coaches.
It’s a new-look Bears team to be coached by Stacee Burns.
After a third-place finish last season, Calivil United has turned to Chelsea Hicks to coach.
The Demons will be fired up for their home against Newbridge at Calivil from 3pm.
The Selina Holland-coached Newbridge is bolstered by the inclusion of Emily Langley, and also promoted goalshooter Kym Childs.
Pyramid Hill has the bye and will take to Calivil United’s court on April 15 when round two is played.