It’s a big weekend ahead as our Bottle Green squads head to Melbourne for the Netball Victoria Association Championships State Finals. With teams in the Open, Under 17 and Under 13 divisions representing the Hampden league, there’s plenty of excitement around showcasing our talent in the big smoke. Each squad has trained hard and performed strongly to earn their place on the state stage, and we are confident they’ll make the Hampden FNL proud. A huge thank you goes to all players, coaches, and support staff who have put their hands up to represent our league—you are what makes this competition thrive.
Back in local action, the Open Grade continues to heat up. Cobden proved they’re well and truly in the finals mix with a thrilling one-goal win over South Warrnambool on the weekend. It was a high-intensity match that showcased finals-like pressure and poise, and Cobden’s ability to hold their nerve has them looming as a genuine contender.
The battle for the fifth and final spot is shaping as a nail-biter, with Camperdown, Portland, Terang Mortlake and Port Fairy all still in the hunt. Every quarter will matter in the run home as percentage could be the deciding factor.
South Warrnambool will be boosted this week with the return of star midcourter Ally O’Connor. After completing a stint with the Melbourne Vixens Reserves squad, the three-time Dot Jenkins Medallist is set to don the red and white once again. What a terrific opportunity for Ally to test herself at the elite level, and no doubt the Roosters will be thrilled to have her experience and class back in the lineup for the finals push.
With the business end of the season fast approaching, every pass, intercept and goal is critical. Best of luck to all our Bottle Green teams in Melbourne this weekend—go out there and show the state what Hampden netball is all about!
