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.
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.
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.
Milestones will be celebrated in style this weekend in the Hampden FNL, with two players reaching significant career marks. Terang Mortlake’s Emma Lucas will take the court for her 100th Open game, a fantastic achievement for a player who has also given countless hours to the game through her umpiring and broader club involvement. Emma’s dedication, both on and off the court, has been a major asset to the Bloods, and her commitment over the years has been nothing short of outstanding.
Cobden’s Sophie Blain will notch up her 150th appearance, further cementing her reputation as one of the Bombers’ most consistent and reliable performers. Sophie is admired across the league for her work ethic, composure, and ability to influence games in critical moments. As a key member of Cobden’s Open squad, she remains determined to help her side push for ultimate glory in 2025. Congratulations to both Emma and Sophie on their remarkable milestones.
With only three rounds remaining, the race for finals spots is heating up — particularly in the Open competition. This weekend shapes as a pivotal moment in the battle for fifth place, with Portland and Camperdown set to clash in a high-stakes encounter. If the Tigers can secure a win, they’ll level the standings and keep their finals dream alive. However, if the Magpies take the points, they will jump two games clear and virtually lock in a spot in September.
Both teams have shown steady improvement throughout the year, and this matchup promises to be a quality contest. Portland’s defensive pressure and fast transition game have troubled opponents, while Camperdown’s ability to find composure in tight moments has been a feature of their success. Expect a fierce and physical battle with plenty riding on the result.
Away from league action, there has been more cause for celebration. Piper Stephens, Shelby O’Sullivan, and Indi O’Connor — all rising stars within the Hampden FNL — were part of the Geelong College team that claimed the APS Netball premiership. To see local talent performing so well on a major school stage is incredibly pleasing and a great sign for the future depth of the competition.
This weekend marks a special milestone for one of Terang Mortlake’s most respected and admired players, with Jarryd Hay set to play his 200th senior game. A tough, unrelenting competitor, Hay has been a cornerstone of the Bloods’ line-up for more than a decade. The former skipper has built a reputation as a consistent, team-first player who leads by example. In recent years, he has battled through injury setbacks, but his return to the field this season has been a welcome boost for both his teammates and supporters. Few embody the Bloods’ hard-working culture quite like Hay, and Saturday will be a fitting celebration of his contribution to the club.
In other exciting news, South Warrnambool football export Maggie Johnstone is edging ever closer to an AFLW opportunity. This week, she was named in the U18 National All Australian Team — a prestigious honour that reflects her outstanding 2025 campaign with the GWV Rebels. Johnstone’s form this year has been nothing short of exceptional, showcasing her athleticism, skill, and football smarts. With her trajectory pointing steeply upwards, the hope locally is that AFLW coaches Mat Buck and Natalie Wood — both with Hampden League connections — will take a close look at her for the 2026 season.
On the field this weekend, the fight for finals spots continues to heat up. Portland and Terang Mortlake both face crucial matches as they jostle for a place in the top five. For the Bloods, the return of the “Kain Train” — star forward Will Kain — for the final three rounds could not be better timed. His presence will add a potent edge to their forward line as they host a must-win clash.
Portland, meanwhile, face an equally significant test when they welcome one of the league’s form teams, Camperdown. The Magpies have been flying in recent weeks, and the Tigers will need to bring their trademark pressure and contested work to secure the points. With wet and windy conditions forecast, this round looms as a war of attrition, where hunger, discipline, and execution will decide the result.
There’s excitement in the Hampden Football Netball League this week, with confirmation that one of Australia’s most decorated umpires, Michelle Phippard, will officiate the 2025 Open Netball Grand Final. Michelle’s umpiring career is nothing short of remarkable — she has taken charge of more than 100 international matches, including four Commonwealth Games and four Netball World Cups. Her appointment to the league’s biggest game is a massive coup and a sign of the standard the HFNL continues to reach. To have someone of Michelle’s calibre in Warrnambool on Grand Final day is a true privilege for players, officials and spectators alike.
Meanwhile, there’s more positive news out of Camperdown with coach Jill Leader signing on for a second season. Jill has been a breath of fresh air for the Magpies, instilling a new level of professionalism and structure into the club’s netball program. Her presence has helped reshape Camperdown’s on-court identity, and the return of talented young goaler Nell Mitchell only strengthens their 2026 outlook. Mitchell has been a revelation in the goal circle this year, combining strong positioning with impressive composure and accuracy under pressure.
On the court this weekend, Round 15 will officially close with two critical match-ups. Portland will host ladder-leaders Warrnambool in what promises to be a fast-paced contest. The Blues have looked polished in recent weeks, but Portland can be a tricky challenge. Across the region, Camperdown welcomes powerhouse South Warrnambool in another match with plenty at stake. The Roosters are eyeing top-two security, while the Magpies continue to push for consistency in the run home.
With finals just around the corner, the stakes are rising each week. Can Portland or Camperdown spring an upset? Or will the title contenders reinforce their dominance as the regular season winds down? Either way, all eyes will soon turn toward September — and with Michelle Phippard confirmed for Grand Final day, the 2025 HFNL netball finale just got even bigger.
Port Fairy has wasted no time in locking in its senior coach for the 2026 Hampden Football Netball League season, appointing Tyrone Ross to the role. A decorated footballer with a wealth of experience, Ross is widely regarded as a strong leader and an outstanding people person — qualities that should make him a perfect fit for the Seagulls as they continue to build both on and off the field.
He takes over from Dusty McCorkell, who has been a terrific servant to the club over the past three seasons. McCorkell’s tenure has been marked by commitment, player development, and a deep passion for the Port Fairy jumper, and he departs the role with the respect of players, officials, and supporters alike.
In more positive news for the league, one of its brightest young talents will take centre stage this weekend on the national stage. Camperdown’s Lenny Stephens has earned selection in an AFL Futures match — a competition that showcases the next wave of elite footballers. At just 17, Stephens has already enjoyed a strong year, holding his own in the Hampden Seniors while also making an impact with the Greater Western Victoria Rebels in the Coates Talent League. His selection is well deserved and will be a valuable opportunity to test himself against the best young talent in the country.
Meanwhile, the focus locally this weekend will also turn to the next generation, with the HFNL Junior Finals kicking off at Gardens Oval. Four matches are on the card, with all grades promising to deliver high-quality football. Junior finals are always a highlight of the season.
From the senior coaching announcements to emerging talent and grassroots finals action, it’s another reminder of the HFNL’s strong football heartbeat — one that continues to nurture its stars of today while preparing the champions of tomorrow.
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