Netball
4 April, 2026
HDFNL 2026 preview: Bombers gunning for title
Noradjuha Quantong A grade enters 2026 as a serious premiership contender, thanks to a strong offseason and key recruits.
Following a strong 2024 season in which they finished second on the ladder, the Bombers didn’t repeat that success in 2025, finishing fifth before being eliminated in the semi-finals.
Taking over as sole coach after sharing coaching duties with Fiona Rowe in 2025, Taylor Shelley said the aim this offseason was to bring in youth, something she felt other sides did well last season.
“In 2024, we really hit our straps and had a really successful season,” Shelley said.
“In 2025, I think a lot of the other teams in the league recruited and brought some youth into their side, which we weren't able to do, so I think we sort of fell on the back burner in that regard.
“My goal this year was to bring a little bit more youth into the side, which we've done, which is great.”
With Victoria Netball League experience to their name, the trio of Jess and Rachel Leader plus Leah Mirtschin loom as potential gamechangers in the competition.
Shelley believes the ability for all three to play multiple positions will be pivotal for the team.
“Versatility is the biggest thing that they’re bringing,” she said.
“Jess and Leah, in particular, you could almost put them in all seven positions on the court, and they would excel.
“Rachel is just shy of 6’4”, so she’s bringing a lot of height to both our ends.”
Much of the 2025 side returns, including Brooke Pay, Jayne Tucker and Holly Nuske; however, youngsters Taya Quick and Isabella McIntyre will not return due to university commitments.
As well as the new additions to the side, Shelley is feeling optimistic about the club’s work in the preseason.
“We’re doing different types of training, such as speed training and plyometric training, just to really build our strength in different aspects,” she said.
“We’ve had great numbers, as shown by 44 players trialling for the club, which was really exciting.”
While the ultimate goal is a premiership, the coach hopes the team can play as a more cohesive unit.
“Everyone’s goal is a premiership, but my goal is to get a bit of cohesion back,” Shelley said.
“With that, I think having an enjoyable year, where we’re bringing in experience with our recruits, we can hopefully learn some things and just continue to develop as individuals and as a team.”