Netball
21 July, 2024
Bethune adding spark to defence
Rising star Maddison Bethune has taken A-grade netball by storm in 2024, with a much-improved game playing in defence for the formidable Horsham Saints in the Wimmera Football Netball League.
Bethune plays 17-and-under and backs it up with A-grade, just like she did in 2023, but there is one difference in 2024 - she has made a remarkable improvement and is turning into one of the best defenders in the league.
Bethune plays goal defence predominantly in both grades but occasionally plays goalkeeper or wing defence. She is enjoying her second year of A-grade.
"It's been really good this year, and all the girls are welcoming, and I am having a lot of fun," Bethune said.
"It's sometimes a bit hard playing both grades, but I get through it."
When asked who her toughest opponent has been, Bethune quietly pointed out the Horsham Demons, one of the flag favourites in the league in 2024.
Bethune looks up to netballer Jamie-Lee Price, one of the best defensive midcourters in the Suncorp Super Netball League.
Bethune's A-grade coach, Jess Cannane, said she is just getting better and adding good versatility to her game in various positions.
"She is getting better and better, and in the last couple of weeks, she has played different roles, such as wing defence and goalkeeper," Cannane said.
"She comes from a solid basketball background; you can see that in how she plays.
"She has great defensive views, and it's pleasing when she turns that into an attack, which gives us opportunities to score."
"She is thriving, and seeing where her netball could take her is exciting."