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.
