Netball
10 April, 2026
Reigning queens hungry to hit the court
The coach of last season's premiership side, Vernetta Taylor, says her team is looking forward to getting back out on court for season 2026.
The Horsham Saints will host the Eagles at Coughlin Park in the opening round, with other games to be contested between the Demons and Minyip Murtoa and Nhill and the Thunder.
Taylor said the Horsham side had had a strong pre-season and the players were keen to put that work into action.
While not debuting any new players in A grade this week, Taylor said it would be the first time this particular lineup had played together.
"I’m really looking forward to seeing how the combinations come together in a match setting," she said.
The Saints will be looking to utislise the height and skill of their goalers, Jorja Clode and Lena Marshman.
"If we can deliver the ball well into the ring, it will be a key point of difference for us," Taylor said.
But the coach will also be keeping a close eye on the other end of the court.
"There are a few key matchups that will be important," Taylor said.
"Our defensive matchup on the talented Clyne sisters, Lauren and Nicola, will be crucial, as will the midcourt battle in trying to counter the skill and speed of Emma Koschitzke."
Eagles coach Sarah Spicer said her side was feeling both excited and nervous ahead of their first game of the season.
"We're ready to see where we're at and starting the season will help us know what we need to focus on," Spicer said.
While the side won't be debuting any "new" players this round, they will welcome back a couple of familiar individuals in Koschitzke and Maddie Okely.
There will also be the addition of some former junior players who have progressed to the senior ranks.
Agreeing the challenge didn't get any harder than facing last season's premiers, Spicer said they were looking forward to lining up against the Horsham side.
"It's always tough to play Horsham Saints any week, let alone round one," she said.
"It will certainly challenge us and we're looking forward to that."
Spicer said being able to limit the goal-scoring opportunities of Jorja Clode for Horsham would be key in the matchup, but also capitalising on any opportunities would be pivotal for the side from Warrack.
While admitting, like many sides at this point, they were still figuring out their best combinations, Spicer said they would make the most of rotations on Saturday.
"I think our midcourt is pretty settled and I'm looking forward to those matchups," she said.
"As for where the game will be won, it'll be in the goal circle."