Netball
9 April, 2026
HDFNL 2026 preview: Finals potential for Natimuk United
Natimuk’s A grade netball side was one of the feel-good stories of 2025, and the young side hopes to make another step forward in 2026.
After a slow start to 2025, Natimuk won five straight games in the second half of the season, putting themselves in finals contention before falling short.
Coach Danielle Hanson said the inconsistent season highlighted the team’s talent and showed there is still room for improvement.
“Last year, we won games that we shouldn’t have over Noradjuha Quantong and Laharum,” she said.
“We shocked everyone, including ourselves, and showed that when we put our minds to it, we can actually do it.
“We had a really good trot of games midway through the season, but there were also games that we lost that we shouldn’t have.
“So we just need to keep building from that.”
Hanson takes over the coaching role from Di Hayes, hoping to replicate the progression shown in 2025.
“I’ve coached the team previously and have taken on the role again as Di was not able to commit again, which was unfortunate,” she said.
“It was really good to have her here last year as a newcomer with fresh eyes and bring in new ideas for the team.
“We will soldier on, and hopefully I’m able to make the right decisions.”
While most of the 2025 team will play again, there are a couple of changes to the squad.
Tara McIntyre and Mayci Porter depart the side for university and travel, respectively.
Beth Sudholz returns to the side after a few years away, while new player Stacey Hopwood will be a welcome addition.
“We have lost a couple of girls, but we have filled their positions pretty well,’ Hanson said
“Beth Sudholz, a tall defender, returns after a few years away at uni, so it will be good to have her play alongside her sisters, Phoebe and Olivia.
“Tahlia Dufty steps up from B grade to A grade, and she’s a midcourter who will add some quickness for us.
Hanson also identified Phoebe Sudholz and Emma Uebergang as young players to watch.
“Phoebe Sudholz was our junior development player last year, and having her extra height in the midcourt is going to help,” the coach said.
“She’s got long arms, can deflect a lot of passes and reads the play well.
“I think she will really strive, and I’m looking forward to how she progresses.
“Emma (Eubergang) is forever improving and had a great year last year.
“She picks things up so quickly, and she wants to learn.”
With how the team has progressed in recent years, Hanson believes a finals appearance is a real possibility for the side.
“Each year we are stepping closer to making the finals, and who's to say this isn't the year?” Hanson said.
“We’re aiming for finals, you strive to get there, but also to keep improving from the year before.”