Welcome to the Opening Round for Season 2024 and as the HFNL prepare to kick off, the air is thick with anticipation. After an offseason filled with significant changes to some team lists, teams are eager to showcase their strengths this weekend, setting the tone for a great season ahead.
The opening game, under lights at the Reid oval on Friday night, Koroit take on Warrnambool. The Blues have recruited well and will be looking to improve on their results from 2023. I think they will get an early win on the board.
South Warrnambool look to be a strong contender for their third consecutive Premiership with a dominating performance over the Saints on Good Friday. North Warrnambool have gained the services of Boroondara Express recruit Chelsea Quinn and will be a welcome inclusion for the Eagles. The Roosters will make it two from two but the Eagles will be eager to improve on their 6th placing in 2023.
Portland and Port Fairy will play their first round encounter at Hanlon Park. The vibe from Tigerland is positive and upbeat and I think they can take the points over the seagulls.
In another twilight game for Opening Round, Terang and Camperdown will do battle at Leura Oval on Saturday evening. With a good balance of experience and youth, the Magpies will be a stronger force this season and with some notable players missing from the Bloods list, could start their season with a narrow win over the Bloods.
In the last game of the round, Hamilton Kangaroos travel to Cobden. The Bombers lineup will be very different to last year and I expect the Kangaroos to be a bit of a surprise packet. This should be a great contest to open up the season and the depth through the Junior ranks from both Clubs will be a key factor to their success. The Bombers with a narrow win for me.
All in all, the Opening weekend promises some thrilling clashes, with Coaches employing new tactics to outwit their opponents. I anticipate the “Rolling Substitutions” rule will be well utilized early and I hope the fans will flock to the games over the weekend with perfect weather conditions predicted in all locations.
Rules of the Week
Throw In – You no longer have to wait for all players to be on Court for the Throw In to be taken
Toss up Removal – Most umpires will be pleased to know the good old Toss Up is gone!!!
What Now? If a simultaneous infringement occurs the Umpire3 awards possession to the team that was last in possession of the ball, where the ball was when play stopped. Any player from that team may take the ball for the restart of play. If it is in the goal circle the GS or GA may shoot for goal.
State Representative
Congratulations to Eva Ryan from the Warrnambool FNC who will represent Victoria in the 17/U State Team competing at the 2024 National Netball Championships in Frankston, Vic next week. This is a fantastic achievement. Congratulations from everyone at the HFNL
Good Luck to all Teams competing in both Netball and Football
