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.
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.
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.
This weekend marks a special occasion for two Hampden FNL netballers, with both Sophie Hinkley and Tash Clark set to celebrate remarkable milestones in their senior netball journeys.
Cobden’s Sophie Hinkley will play her 150th Open match – a tremendous achievement for one of the league’s great contributors both on and off the court. Sophie’s netball journey began at North Warrnambool, before she made the switch to Cobden in 2018. Since then, she’s become an integral part of the club’s netball program, admired for her leadership, skill, and passion.
While it may feel like Sophie has been part of the competition forever, her path has included time away due to stints playing in the Geelong Football Netball League, overseas travel, and starting a family – all of which makes her 150-game milestone even more special. Sophie has not only been a star player but also a valued coach and mentor across her career. We congratulate Sophie and wish her all the best for this weekend’s milestone match.
Joining her in the 150-game club is North Warrnambool’s Tash Clark. A much-loved figure at the Eagles, Tash has been a mainstay of the club and a key contributor to the club’s success over the years. Her consistency, team-first attitude, and dedication have made her a favourite among teammates and supporters alike. We also extend our congratulations to Tash on this significant milestone and wish her well in her special game.
On the court, the race for fifth spot on the Open ladder continues to intensify. Just one win separates Camperdown and Portland, with the two teams scheduled to meet in Round 16 in what could be a virtual elimination final. With finals approaching fast, every match takes on greater meaning, and this looming clash promises to be a beauty.
It’s been an exciting and competitive season of netball, and with milestone games and finals spots on the line, the next few weeks are shaping up to be something special.
Juniors stars
A shout out to Indi O’Connor (Koroit) and Eva Ryan (Warrnambool) as they have made the last 25 in the state selection process for Under 17 & and Under 19 sides respectively. All the best for these young stars. You go girls!
The top five in most grades of Netball are set coming into the penultimate round. As the top three or what I call the double chance is not yet locked-in for the following grades the 13 Reserves, 15 Reserves, Division 3 and Open we could anticipate some tight contests. The teams who have not made the five usually play well in the last few rounds and may still have an impact on the outcome of the final five in each grade.
Last week’s results:
South Warrnambool had a strong win over the Camperdown. This was Mental Health Awareness Game; Camperdown highlight green for anxiety and South highlighted blue for Mental Health. The young Magpies had some fine passages of play however the Roosters were too good and are in fine form coming into finals. Ally O’Connor was awarded the Mental Health Awareness Medal for best on ground.
Koroit defeated Terang/Mortlake at Victoria Park, the scores in this game indicated the contest was fairly even until the main break with Saints pulling away in the second half to win comfortably.
Cobden defeated Portland by a solid margin. Portland fought hard but the Sophie Hinkley coached Cobden side are heading into finals and are in fine form.
Hamilton got the points against Port Fairy. This was a tight game with the Kangaroos building on their lead each quarter. Hamilton had Kellie Sommerville firing in the mid court and their young goalie Saskia Gould hit the score board with 32 goals. The Seagulls would be disappointed
The Warrnambool Blues defeated the North Warrnambool Eagles. There was nothing in this game until half time. Warrnambool had a great third court and set up the win. Young basketball Dakota Crichton apparently found her feet in the goals.
Looking at this week.
Camperdown travel to Hanlon Park to take on the Portland Tigers. For my mind, this game will be a beauty. Portland’s experience players such as Heidi Jones and Laura Kelly are playing well and with the next group really stepping up will give the young Pies a real run for their money. I am going for Portland to win at home.
South Warrnambool play Port Fairy at the Garden’s oval. The Roosters will get the points against a hard-working Port Fairy outfit.
Terang/Mortlake welcome the Blues to Ridley Recreation Reserve at Terang. Although Terang can not make the final five they will push the Warrnambool Blues all the way, however the Blues will get the points.
The Hamilton Kangaroos take on the Koroit Saints, at Dunkeld. Hamilton is coming off a win and I believe their injury worries are in the past Koroit are looking to cement 3rd place and also have a full list so Koroit for my money.
The Cobden Bombers who are sitting in second place take on the Eagles who are fifth at Bushfield.
The Eagles will be looking to get that winning feeling coming into the finals nonetheless the Bombers have played consistently this seasons and will take the points.
Netball coaches 2025
Camperdown announced this week Jill Leader as the Open Netball Coach for 2025. Leader comes with a wealth of experience, having previously coached the Geelong Cougars in the VNL. Outgoing Coach Emily Stephens said Leader experience would bring a fresh perspective to the young side.
Terang Mortlake have announced the reappointment of Kym Grundy as the Open Netball Coach for 2025. Kym is pumped and will hit the ground running as she prepares for next season.
Results from round 15:
The clash at the DC Farran Oval last week went down to the wire with the Kangaroo’s getting the points. Hamilton came out firing and led by 7 at the main break, as I would expect the Bloods lifted the tempo in the 3rd quarter and the margin was only 2 goals with a quarter to play. Hamilton steadied and kept the 2-goal lead at the bell.
Warrnambool defeated Portland and heading into finals Kate Lindsay (the Blues coach) would have been pleased with the result. I heard on good authority that the Tigers had some real positives with the goalies showing strong form and young Lexie Purcell who played through the mid court real hitting her straps.
Koroit had a strong win over North Warrnambool, they tell me Maddy Vardy was strong all day for the Eagles, but this wasn’t enough. Nell Mitchell Koroit shot 39 goals and the young Saints showed why they are future stars or should I say stars now.
Camperdown got the points against Port Fairy. The Pies came out firing and continued in this vein. Piper Stephens, Isobel Sinnott and Lily Eldridge lead the way for Camperdown. Young Lexie Dwyer debuted for the Seagulls and put in a solid performance and Jessika Tobin Salzman shot 31 goals.
South Warrnambool secured the 4 points against Cobden. The Roosters got off to a flying start and had an eleven-goal lead at the main break, I heard that both coaches tweaked their line ups which is expected coming into finals. The final score 54-43
Round 16 Matches:
The South Warrnambool Roosters are at home to Camperdown. The young Pies surprised the South Warrnambool Roosters last time. Camperdown have developed and are a team on the rise. Nevertheless, South are the form side in the competition and will not let this one slip. South will win comfortably.
Terang/Mortlake travel to Victoria Park to take on Koroit. Both teams have plenty to play for the Saints to hold onto 3rd place and the Bloods to show their reappointed coach for 2025 that they are in a real development phase. Koroit with a full line up will have a solid win.
The Cobden Bombers welcome Portland to the Cobden Community Bank Recreation Reserve. The Tigers will show some fight but will be outclassed by the Bombers who will want to get back in the black.
Port Fairy is home to the Hamilton Kangaroos. Last time the Seagulls got the points comfortable and have continued to be a competitive unit. Then again, the Kangaroo’s Coach Emma Sommerville has the team playing fine netball. The juniors playing open netball have really stepped up and are being led by the experienced brigade. Hamilton in a close one.
Warrnambool take on the Eagles at the Reid. For my mind, the match of the round, with these two sides sitting fourth & fifth, respectively.
The Blues had a strong win last week and the Eagles had a loss. Warrnambool won by 7 or 8 last time the two teams met, on the other hand, the Eagles having had a touch up last week might just be enough for them to come out firing. North Warrnambool in a tight tussle.
Whilst we have a huge focus on the Open Division grade in the HFNL, there are many other trades in which are extremely close in 2024. The U17 competition has been ultra competitive and that is no surprise, with all of ten teams boasting some quality Open Division players. Currently Koroit occupy top position on the ladder, holding a game buffer from their nearest rivals Camperdown and South Warrnambool. The great interest will be over the next fortnight, as there are two fights, one to get a double chance and the other is to get a position in the top five. Seven teams are in strong contention to play finals, but only five can have that opportunity. The League looks forward to seeing how this outstanding finishes up in the last six weeks before finals.
Doran Milestone
North Warrnambool will celebrate a major milestone this weekend, with club favourite Ashlea Doran playing her 200th senior game. Ash made her way to the Eagles in 2010 and has been a regular fixture in Division 3, with her produest moment coming in 2017 when she captained the team to a premiership. Congratulations Ashlea on your acheivement.
Round 13
Cobden vs Port Fairy – Cobden will head into the fixture as favourites. A strong win is needed to help with consolidation of a potential top three finish. Nikki Clover has been a great find in the defence end, while Emily Finch has been in super form.
Koroit vs South Warrnambool – A huge task for Koroit, taking on the league leaders. The Saints are holding third spot and have a number of sides breathing down their neck. A big four-quarter performance is required and certainly a win is not out of the question. Both sides in good form currently.
Camperdown vs Warrnambool – An eight-point game for Camperdown, if they wish to feature in finals this season. There best is good enough but they meet a well-drilled side with plenty of star-power across the court. Isabella Baker and Lily Eldridge will be important players for their respective sides. A great encounter coming up.
Hamilton vs Portland – The Hamilton Kangaroos will give everything this weekend to get their first win, especially playing the arch rivals Portland. Portland despite not winning have been ultra competitive and are playing some great netball. It will take Hamilton’s best to get them win number one this weekend.
Terang Mortlake vs North Warrnambool – A big game for Terang Mortlake as they are still are in the hunt and need to take a scalp. The Eagles are in good order and are a number of teams fighting for a top 5 and top 3 finish.
Next up in our Netball Rule of the Week Series, we have ‘Playing the Ball’, including some information about when replay should be called. World Netball has produced an excellent graphic to assist with everyone’s understanding. These have been included below.
The Hampden Football Netball League were a dominant force at the Western Zone Association Championships last weekend in Ballarat.
The League took five teams to the tournament and all teams made it through to the Grand Final, with the U13 Reserves, U13 Championship and U15 Championship teams winning their division. The U15 Reserves and U17 Championship teams narrowly missed out on the silverware in tight Grand Finals. The next stage of the tournament is the State Finals in Melbourne on June 16th. We will have all four championships teams competing – Open, U17, U15 and U13. The League is extremely excited about each team’s prospects, with each team training hard into the lead up. A big thank-you to all of the coaches – Will Jamison, Danielle McInerney, Dot Jenkins, Stacey O’Sullivan, Leah Kermeen, Josie Ellerton, Nat O’Dea, Kate Dobson and Lianna Harrison. The time and energy put into these programs has been enormous and we are very grateful to have great netball leaders.
As the halfway mark of the season approaches, the competition in the Open Netball continues to provide great interest and intrigue. South Warrnambool are leading the way on top of the ladder, while Cobden and Koroit are close behind. The great interest is the 4th to 7th place positions on the ladder with only one game separating the teams. The next month of netball will maybe provide greater clarity of what the end of the season might look like or it may remain the same, hopefully the latter, as we want it as tight as can be leading into finals.
Round 9
Warrnambool vs Hamilton (Reid Oval)
Cobden vs Terang Mortlake (Cobden Rec Reserve)
Portland vs South Warrnambool (Hanlon Park)
Port Fairy vs Koroit (Gardens Oval)
North Warrnambool vs Camperdown (Victoria Park)
See you at the Netball
Hilly
A couple of surprise results for me in Round 7
The young Camperdown side upset the ladder leaders with a hard fought 2 goal win. I have looked back over the results of the Camperdown games so far this season and I think if the Pies turn some of the loss they had in the early games to wins in the second round it does beg the question can the Magpies make the five in 2024? The Camperdown side had a ripper of a 3rd quarter getting out to an eleven-goal lead after the game was even at the main break. As expected, South came out firing in the final term but playing catch up was tough and Camperdown held their nerve to win. South a little undermanned, however congratulations to Camperdown for downing the ladder leaders.
Warrnambool had a strong win against the inform Eagles, forcing their way into the top five on percentage. The Blues’ Bel Baker & Eva Ryan combining well in the Goal circle, the reliable Amy Wormald standing up down back and Carly Peake lively through the mid court was enough to cause North’s downfall. North Warrnambool a little undermanned, A valuable win for the Blues.
The Bombers have really found form over the last few weeks and had a strong win over the Tigers.
Koroit hit their straps with a strong win over the Bloods. The scores indicate nothing in the match until half time with the saints pulling away strongly in the second half. Nell Mitchell & Indi O’Connor shooting well for the winners.
Port Fairy started well against the Hamilton Kangaroos and continued to outscore the opposition in each quarter. Jessika Tobin Salzman putting 48 goals on the board.
Round 8
Warrnambool take on Terang/Mortlake at the Reid, and for the winner a place in the five. Warrnambool’s confidence will be up after the strong win last week and the Bloods will be determined after last weeks’ loss. Warrnambool by a couple.
The Rooster will take on Port Fairy at home. South to come out fired up after the result last week and will defeat the Seagulls by a solid margin.
Camperdown take on the Portland Tigers at Leura Oval. Can the Pies continue their good form from last week? As I have said before, the Portland Tigers are playing strong netball but not for the full four quarters. Camperdown’s strong form will continue this week.
Koroit meet Hamilton, I have not seen either of these teams in the last couple of weeks so just on form alone Koroit to win comfortably.
North Warrnambool travel to the Cobden Community Bank Recreation Reserve to take on the Bombers. I believe the winner of this match will hold second place and the vanquished team will drop to fourth on the ladder, by the end of the day. Both coaches know the importance of this win and that it will set their teams up moving towards the second round. North Warrnambool in a tight tussle.
All the Best to the Junior Hampden sides playing at the association championship in Ballarat this Sunday. Many thanks Warrnambool Toyota for their Support for the Hampden Junior Association teams. If all goes well we will have our junior sides joining the Open side representing the Bottle Greens on finals day in Melbourne.
Go Hampden
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