Koroit will be chasing their first Open Netball title in five seasons after booking the first spot in the 2025 Hampden FNL Grand Final. The Saints produced their best netball of the year in Portland on Saturday, upstaging reigning premiers South Warrnambool in the second semi-final. It was a complete team performance, but young gun Indi O’Connor was the standout, shooting a remarkable 44 goals. In the midcourt, Scarlett O’Donnell dictated play with poise and precision, ensuring Koroit took control from the outset and never looked back.
The result has given the Saints a golden opportunity to break their premiership drought and return to the top of the competition, with two weeks to fine-tune before the season decider.
Meanwhile, Warrnambool’s fairytale finals run remains alive after a hard-fought first semi-final win over Cobden at Leura Oval on Sunday. The Blues held their nerve in a tense contest and were boosted by the timely return of key shooter Eva Ryan from injury. Although carefully managed for minutes, Ryan’s presence allowed Warrnambool to reconfigure its attacking combinations, giving them more flexibility and confidence heading into this Saturday’s preliminary final. There, they will face South Warrnambool in a blockbuster clash at Melville Oval, with the winner earning the right to take on Koroit for the championship.
Off the court, the spotlight now turns to the competition’s highest individual honour, the Dot Jenkins Medal, to be awarded this Sunday. The 2025 count shapes as one of the most open in recent memory, with a host of players capable of polling strongly.
Camperdown’s talented youngsters Piper Stephens and Indiana Cameron have enjoyed breakout seasons, while Cobden boasts a formidable quartet in Remeny McCann, Sarah Moroney, Sophie Hinkley and Jaymie Finch. North Warrnambool’s inspirational coach Maddy Vardy has once again been outstanding, as has Port Fairy shooter Jessika Tobin Salzman.
Hamilton pair Hayley Sherlock and Ella Sevior are likely to attract votes, while Terang Mortlake’s Ava Grundy has been a consistent force. South Warrnambool is expected to feature heavily in the count, with Ally O’Connor, Meg Kelson, Isabella Rea and Emma Buwulda all enjoying standout years. Warrnambool’s trio of Eva Ryan, Jo Couch and Amy Wormald are also likely to be in contention.
Koroit’s strength has been their evenness, but stars Indi O’Connor, Scarlett O’Donnell, Emily Kermeen and Shelby O’Sullivan are all genuine medal chances. Portland coach Laura Kelly rounds out the impressive list of candidates.
With so much talent spread across the league, this year’s Dot Jenkins Medal promises to be a thrilling count.
North Warrnambool has booked the first ticket into the 2025 Hampden FNL Grand Final after producing a commanding second-half performance to defeat Koroit in last weekend’s second semi-final. The Eagles’ A Graders lifted when it mattered most, taking on the challenge and guiding their side home in style. It was yet another reminder of why the Eagles have been the benchmark across the past five years. They have now qualified for their fifth consecutive Grand Final and will once again set their sights on a long-awaited maiden premiership.
In the first semi-final, South Warrnambool were simply at their best. The Roosters dominated Warrnambool at Leura Oval in front of a strong crowd, showing the trademark intensity and ball movement that has carried them deep into September so many times before. The 2023 premiers were ruthless across the ground and gave the Blues little opportunity to settle into the contest. With that victory, South has earned the right to meet Koroit this weekend at Melville Oval in Hamilton, with the prize being the last remaining place in this year’s Grand Final. Fans can expect a fierce battle between two clubs with proud finals pedigrees and plenty of big-game players.
Off the court, all eyes turn to this Sunday with the presentation of the Hampden FNL’s most prestigious individual accolade, the 2025 Maskell Medal. After an even and highly competitive season, there are multiple contenders capable of walking away with the honour.
Camperdown captain Charlie Lucas and teammate Zach Sinnott have both put together standout years, while Cobden’s Luke Smith and Sam Lucas have been consistent ball-winners for the Bombers. At North Warrnambool, it has been a shared contribution from their star-studded line-up, with the Wines trio, along with Lewis, Vardy and Noske, all shining. Koroit’s Sam Dobson and Connor Byrne continue to be among the league’s elite, while Hamilton’s Sean Barnes and Levi Dare enjoyed excellent campaigns.
Port Fairy has been well-served by Jake Bartlett, Lucas and James Edmonds, while South Warrnambool’s Max Irving and Archie Stevens are fancied by many to poll strongly. Portland pair Tanner Lovell and Jay Moody also impressed, as did Warrnambool’s Jye Turland and Sam Cowling. Terang Mortlake duo Joe Arundell and Lewis Taylor round out a strong field of genuine contenders.
With so much talent spread across the competition, this year’s Maskell Medal count promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
The business end of the Hampden FNL season is always buzzing with activity, and this week has been no different. While the Fresha Juice Finals Series got underway, the league also took the chance to celebrate its junior stars at the annual presentation evening. It was a night that highlighted the depth of emerging talent across the competition, and the vote counts produced plenty of drama with close finishes in several grades.
The standout winner was Camperdown’s Indiana Cameron, who was crowned the U17 Rebekah Moroney Medallist. Cameron has been instrumental in her side’s impressive U17 campaign while also making a valuable impact in the Open team. She finished five votes clear of Koroit’s Hannah O’Keefe, another young talent with a bright future. Other winners included Terang Mortlake’s Maddison Wallace, who claimed the U17 Reserves award, while Hamilton’s Molly Sevior shone in the U15 competition, topping a high-scoring vote count. South Warrnambool mid-courter Lottie Wilkinson was a commanding winner in the U15 Reserves, showing consistency throughout the year. The U13 award went to Roosters rising star Molly McNeil, with Cobden’s Mahli Baxter taking home the U13 Reserves medal.
On court, the finals action has already delivered. The opening weekend drew strong crowds at every venue, with the standard of netball reflecting the intensity of September. In the Open Qualifying Final, Koroit proved too strong for Warrnambool, who were forced to contend with the absence of two key players. The Saints’ younger brigade, full of energy and composure, has been a driving force all season and again rose to the occasion.
Meanwhile, in the Elimination Final, Cobden’s experience and class came to the fore against a gallant Camperdown outfit. The Magpies, guided well by coach Jill Leader, have enjoyed a season of growth and promise, and while their campaign ends here, the foundation has been laid for future success.
Looking ahead, the second week of finals promises even more excitement. The blockbuster 2nd Semi Final sees reigning powerhouse South Warrnambool eyeing another Grand Final berth, while Koroit will be desperate to take the next step after falling just short last year. The 1st Semi Final between Cobden and Warrnambool at Leura Oval shapes as another showcase of skill and determination, with both sides fighting to keep their seasons alive.
With junior talent shining and finals netball in full swing, the Hampden FNL netball landscape could not be in a healthier place.
North Warrnambool will celebrate two major milestones this weekend, alongside chasing a Grand Final berth in the Hampden Football Netball League’s 2nd Semi Final at Hanlon Park, Portland. Veteran midfielder Matthew “Snooze” Wines will play his 350th senior game, while his younger brother Luke will mark his 200th — a proud day for the Wines family and the Eagles faithful.
Matthew’s milestone is nothing short of remarkable. Since his senior debut in 2005, Snooze has been the heartbeat of the Eagles, leading with loyalty, passion, and unwavering commitment. Beginning his football journey at age 10, he continues to wear the blue and gold with immense pride. His career is stacked with accolades — HFNL representative honours, 2018 League MVP, multiple Team of the Year selections, a Best & Fairest title, five-time club runner-up, five senior grand finals, and league life membership in 2021. He also holds the club record for games played. Few players embody the North Warrnambool spirit like Snooze, making him one of the competition’s modern greats.
Adding to the occasion, Luke Wines will play his 200th senior game. Known for his rebound and composure across half back, Luke has been a consistent and reliable figure in the Eagles’ line-up for more than a decade. His honours include the 2017 Best & Fairest and Team of the Year selections in 2021, 2022 and 2024, highlighting his value to the side. Sharing the stage with Matthew and their older brother Adam, Luke’s milestone will be a memorable family moment on one of the league’s biggest days.
On the field, North Warrnambool faces Koroit in the 2nd Semi Final, with the winner advancing straight to the Grand Final. The Saints have gathered momentum at the right time of year, while the Eagles are buoyed by their depth and talent. It promises to be a blockbuster encounter. Meanwhile, South Warrnambool and Warrnambool clash in a do-or-die 1st Semi Final — another finals classic in the making.
Away from finals, the HFNL Junior Presentation Evening shone a spotlight on emerging stars. Warrnambool’s Jagger Lynch claimed the U14 award, Camperdown’s Paddy Hassett won the U16 honour, and Portland’s Jett Lovell made history as the first Tiger to win the U18 Judd Cup. Names to watch as the next generation begins to make its mark.
Two of the Hampden FNL’s powerhouses and fiercest rivals will headline the opening week of the Fresha Juice Finals. Warrnambool and Koroit, who between them have claimed the lion’s share of premierships over the past 25 years, will once again lock horns in a blockbuster Qualifying Final.
The Blues have had to make significant adjustments in recent weeks following injuries to Jo Couch and star shooter Eva Ryan. Ryan’s absence looms as particularly crucial, stripping Warrnambool of one of their most reliable targets in attack. Still, finals have a way of producing new heroes, and Warrnambool’s depth will be tested as they look to cover those outs.
Koroit, meanwhile, continue to unearth and develop outstanding young talent. Shelby O’Sullivan and Indi O’Connor have been revelations this season, both stamping themselves as serious players with the ability to shape the outcome of big games. Their energy and poise will complement the Saints’ experienced heads, making them a formidable challenge for any opponent. With both clubs boasting depth and pride on the line, this clash promises to be another classic in a long line of memorable battles.
The Elimination Final carries its own intrigue, with Corangamite rivals Cobden and Camperdown squaring off in what is sure to be a fiery contest. Cobden have been a consistent finals presence for years and remain as dangerous as ever. With seasoned campaigners like Hinkley, Finch and McCann, they have the experience and big-game temperament that finals demand.
Camperdown, on the other hand, have been one of the feel-good stories of the season. Under the guidance of highly regarded coach Jill Leader, the Magpies’ young side has exceeded expectations and earned plenty of admirers. They bring speed, energy and a fearless approach that could trouble more established opponents.
Two outstanding matches will launch the 2025 finals series, setting the stage for what promises to be an important and exciting month ahead. Rivalries, youth, experience, and plenty of pressure – the Hampden FNL Fresha Juice Finals are here, and they are set to deliver.
It’s finals time in the Hampden FNL, and we are in for one mighty month of football. The home and away season finished in thrilling fashion, with Portland securing the final spot inside the top five. The Tigers faithful were honking their horns after Terang Mortlake’s loss in the final round confirmed their place in another finals campaign.
For five clubs, the season has come to a close, but there is plenty of optimism heading towards 2026. Hamilton Kangaroos have already made headlines, unveiling the return of Tom Feely to his home club. Feely, who has played in the SANFL, VFL and Geelong League, is a major recruit who will add polish and experience to the Kangaroos’ midfield. Meanwhile, Port Fairy have announced Jayden Brennan as their playing assistant coach for next year. Brennan, who was part of Koroit in the early 2010s, will be a huge addition both on and off the field, bringing leadership to a young and developing Seagulls group.
Attention now turns to the business end of the year. Wilsons DC Farran Oval will host this weekend’s Qualifying Final between arch-rivals South Warrnambool and Koroit. These two powerhouses have delivered some memorable contests over the years, and this clash promises to be another first-class battle. Both sides will enter with very different line-ups compared to their last encounter, ensuring plenty of intrigue and tactical adjustments. Expect a fierce, high-quality contest with a direct path to the second semi-final up for grabs.
The Elimination Final shapes as just as intriguing, with Warrnambool and Portland set to renew hostilities. The two teams only met three weeks ago, when little separated them across four quarters. Warrnambool’s structured, methodical approach contrasts with Portland’s run-and-gun game style, setting the scene for another tight and enthralling contest. The loser bows out, while the winner lives to fight another day – finals footy at its finest.
The stage is set, and the Hampden FNL community is buzzing with excitement.
This weekend marks a special round in the Hampden FNL, with two outstanding netballers celebrating significant milestones while the Open finals picture adds one final twist.
At Port Fairy, we proudly celebrate Sarah McCorkell’s 200th senior game, a remarkable achievement that reflects her talent, dedication, and love for the purple and gold. Sarah’s journey with the Seagulls began at just 14 years of age at the Gardens Oval, and since then, she has built a career that is nothing short of inspirational. She has played 90 junior games, 120 Open games and 80 Division 1 matches for Port Fairy, bringing her club tally to an extraordinary 290 games.
A decorated player, Sarah has collected numerous awards along the way and was a vital member of the Seagulls’ 2016 premiership-winning side. In 2017 she even stepped into the coaching role for the Open team, further demonstrating her commitment to the club.
Her Hampden League journey has also taken her to other clubs. Sarah played 60 Open games for Koroit, where she was part of the 2007 premiership side, won the KFNC Best and Fairest, and claimed the prestigious A Grade League Best and Fairest — now known as the Dot Jenkins Medal. Later, she joined Warrnambool, playing 43 Open games after being lured across by her now-husband, Dustin. Across her decorated career, Sarah has now played 224 Open Hampden League games and represented the league in several interleague squads — an incredible legacy across three clubs.
Meanwhile, Victoria Grundy will play her 150th game for Warrnambool this weekend, proudly captaining the Open team. Vic first pulled on the blue and gold at just 10 years of age, beginning a journey that has seen her grow into one of the club’s most influential leaders. Starting as a sharp-shooting goaler before making the move into defence, she has continued to evolve her game with poise and maturity. She played a key role in the 2016 U/17 premiership before making her Open debut in 2018 against Hamilton, the start of a standout senior career.
But Vic’s contribution extends far beyond the court. She has been a junior coach, volunteer, team manager, committee member and the club’s social media guru, always stepping up to support her beloved Blues in every way possible.
On the competition front, the Open top five is now locked, but the race for the minor premiership remains alive. South Warrnambool are back in pole position, while Warrnambool and Koroit are waiting close behind. All three face winnable games, and the result could well determine who earns the all-important week off before what promises to be a blockbuster finals series.
It has been one of the tightest Hampden Football Netball League seasons in recent memory, and the final home-and-away round promises to deliver a thrilling finish. With one spot left in the top five, three clubs remain in contention – Terang Mortlake, Camperdown and Portland – and the equation is simple: if the Bloods win, they’re in. But if they stumble, the door swings wide open for the Magpies or the Tigers. The competition could not have been scripted any better, with a season-defining finale that has the entire league talking.
Terang Mortlake holds its destiny in its own hands and will be desperate to cap off what has been a hard-fought campaign with a finals berth. For Camperdown, a late-season surge has kept their chances alive, while Portland has shown grit and improvement to remain in the hunt. No matter how it falls, the fight for September football is going to provide drama right until the last siren of the home-and-away season.
While all eyes are on the senior ladder, the future stars of the competition will also take centre stage this weekend. The Hampden FNL Junior Grand Finals are set to be contested, with Warrnambool and South Warrnambool set to lock horns in both the Under 14 and Under 16 deciders. The standard of football across the junior finals series has been first-class, and the quality is expected to rise another level on grand final day with premiership glory up for grabs. These contests will not only showcase the exciting young talent in the league but also highlight the strong development pathways that continue to underpin Hampden football.
Adding further significance to the weekend is a major milestone for one of Terang Mortlake’s most respected players. Sam McLean will line up for his 150th senior game, a wonderful achievement that reflects his commitment, consistency and team-first approach. McLean is the type of player who always gives 110 per cent and is held in the highest regard by his teammates and the wider Bloods community. To reach the milestone on home soil, in a match that could shape the club’s finals destiny, makes it all the more memorable.
The Hampden FNL continues to shine as a breeding ground for netball talent, with five of its brightest young stars progressing through to the final 25 in the Netball Victoria State Team Selections. Camperdown’s Piper Stephens, Koroit’s Indi O’Connor and South Warrnambool duo Ruby McKinley and Sophie Smith remain in the mix for the Under-17 squad, while Warrnambool’s emerging sharp-shooter Eva Ryan has advanced to the Under-19 selection pool.
The groups of 25 will now undertake an intense training block over the coming months, before the final squads of 12 are confirmed in December ahead of the 2026 national championships. It’s a tremendous recognition of the Hampden League’s capacity to nurture junior talent and provide opportunities for players to test themselves against the state’s elite. Each of these players has shown great promise in local competition and will be striving to carry their form into the next phase of trials.
This weekend, however, attention also turns to a series of significant milestones across the league as the penultimate round approaches. At Camperdown, 2015 Dot Jenkin Medallist Jaymie Finch is set to line up in her 200th Open HFNL match. Finch has forged an impressive career across stints at both Camperdown and Cobden, and today remains a focal point in the Bombers’ shooting circle. Reaching 200 Open appearances underlines her durability and commitment to the competition.
North Warrnambool will celebrate one of its great contributors, with Jaime Barr notching her 250th game for the Eagles. A much-loved figure both on and off the court, Barr has been a key part of the club’s netball program for years and in 2025 has been integral to the Division 2 side’s push for success. Her milestone is a reflection not only of her talent, but also her loyalty and leadership within the club community.
Port Fairy has plenty to smile about too, with two loyal players reaching important markers. Jess Swarbrick recently chalked up her 100th senior game, adding to 108 junior appearances for a remarkable 208 total matches in the club’s colours. Beginning her journey as a youngster in the Under-13s more than a decade ago, Swarbrick has embodied consistency and dedication.
Teammate Jemmah Lambveski has gone one step further, bringing up her 150th senior game. With a combined tally of 246 matches for the Seagulls, including a start at just 10 years of age in the Sunday Under-12s competition, Lambveski’s record is a testament to her resilience and commitment to Port Fairy netball.
On the Open ladder, Camperdown look firmly in control of the race for the fifth and final finals berth. Two games clear of their nearest rival, the Magpies are poised to return to September action, underpinned by the strong form of their attacking line. With one round to follow, the finals picture is beginning to take shape — and the weekend promises both celebration and fierce competition.
It promises to be a special occasion at Hanlon Park tomorrow when the Lovell family experiences a milestone few football families get to share. For the first time, three brothers will line up together in Portland’s senior side, with Tanner, Kade and the youngest, Jett, all set to take the field against South Warrnambool.
Jett’s selection is particularly significant, with the talented youngster rewarded for a consistent and impressive season at Under 18 level. His work rate, decision-making and composure under pressure have been hallmarks of his game, and he now gets the opportunity to showcase those qualities on the senior stage. Having Tanner and Kade alongside him will be a proud moment for the entire Lovell family, and one that adds an emotional layer to what is already a huge contest for the Tigers.
While the family moment will be a highlight, the task at hand is just as important. Portland face the competition’s benchmark in South Warrnambool, a side that has set the standard all year. For the Tigers, who remain in the finals hunt, the challenge is significant but also provides a chance to prove they can match it with the best.
Meanwhile, it will be a sea of green at the Reid Oval when Warrnambool and Koroit meet in the annual Cassign Cup. The day doubles as a major awareness and fundraising opportunity for Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Warrnambool, also known as the Gillin Boys Foundation. In a touching show of support, Warrnambool’s footballers will swap their famous navy blue jumpers for a striking green version, with the club’s netballers also donning the colour. It’s a wonderful initiative that highlights the close connection between the club and the community, ensuring that tomorrow will be about far more than just the four points.
On-field, the clash is critical. With both Warrnambool and Koroit pushing for a top-three finish, the result could go a long way to deciding who secures the double chance come finals time. Expect a hard-fought battle with high stakes.
Across the league, the run to September is heating up. With seven sides still in contention for five spots, every result matters. Portland, Terang Mortlake and Camperdown remain in the mix, and the tight race suggests we may not have the top five confirmed until the very last round.
It’s exactly the kind of finish Hampden fans were hoping for, and tomorrow’s matches will play another key part in shaping the story of 2025.
Copyright © 2022 | Hampden Football Netball League
Built by
