Excitement Builds as HFNL Netball Season Kicks Off
The wait is over – Round 1 of the Hampden Football Netball League is finally here, and anticipation is at an all-time high. After months of rigorous pre-season preparation and off-season recruiting, all ten clubs are set to hit the courts in what promises to be an exciting start to the 2025 campaign.
Clubs have been working hard behind the scenes, securing key recruits and strengthening their squads for the season ahead. The competition is expected to be as fierce as ever, with teams eager to make their mark early and set the tone for the year. Supporters can look forward to high-quality netball across all grades, with the Open division particularly shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory.
Adding to the excitement is the arrival of several new senior coaches in the Open competition. Ange Northcott, Jill Leader, Nadine McNamara, and Jarryd Anton will take the reins at their respective clubs, bringing fresh ideas, experience, and leadership to their teams. Their influence is expected to play a pivotal role in the development of their squads, and it will be fascinating to see how they navigate their teams and the style they will implement.
Defending premiers South Warrnambool will once again be the hunted, with all teams eager to dethrone them. After an impressive 2024 campaign, they will be looking to maintain their dominance, but with several clubs strengthening their lists, they will need to be at their best to stay ahead of the competition.
Beyond club netball, the HFNL Talent Academy has enjoyed a highly successful four-week program, showcasing the exceptional young talent within the region. Under the guidance of Stacey O’Sullivan, the academy has provided aspiring netballers with elite-level coaching and development opportunities. With a vision to extend the program further in 2025 and 2026, the HFNL is committed to fostering the next generation of netball stars and ensuring the continued growth of the sport at the highest level.
Meanwhile, junior netballers are also gearing up for an exciting season, with Association trials now underway for representative squads. These trials provide a platform for emerging players to showcase their skills and earn selection in the HFNL’s official teams. The competition has been strong, and the final squads will be announced in the coming week, giving young netballers the opportunity to proudly represent the league this season.
With the new season upon us, the HFNL is set for another thrilling year of netball action. The intensity, passion, and skill on display will undoubtedly make for an unforgettable season, and fans are encouraged to get behind their teams as the battle for premiership glory begins. Let the games begin!
Round 1 Games
South Warrnambool vs Cobden
Port Fairy vs North Warrnambool
Hamilton vs Warrnambool
Portland vs Koroit
Terang Mortlake vs Camperdown
