Warriors shape-up for season launch

THE Woady Yaloak Warriors Football Netball Club hosted a junior come-and-try day last weekend at their new Smythesdale home ground.

Offering an Aussie-rules football clinic and NetSetGO netball program, president Adam Liversage said established members, and other new families from the local area enjoyed the morning of activity, and a barbecue at Smythesdale Recreation Reserve.

“We had up to 70 kids present. There were 20 or 30 new families, and lots of Smythesdale people walking down to represent the community, which was also positive,” he said.

“It’s our first official function at Smythesdale, so it’s been very successful. It’s good to see children and sport back on this oval, as we make it our Warriors home, although we will continue our Auskick and NetSetGO programs at Haddon.”

Ten-year-old footy-lover, Ava enjoyed practicing her skills on Sunday morning.

“We focused on handballing, bouncing, calling for the ball, kicking the ball, and tackling,” she said.

“I enjoyed playing a mini game the most, and playing rob-the-nest.”

NetSetGO coach Anna McGuane worked with just under 30 netballers.

“They all seemed to really enjoy it. Some loved the footy as well,” she said. “Children are still more than welcome to come along in the coming weeks to get a taste of it to see whether they like the program.

“The skills and activities are tailored to any age group and experience.”

Mr Liversage said parents have provided positive feedback, and families are excited to take some ownership of their growing community club.

“People are buying up some of the apparel. It makes them feel part of something, so they’re quite proud of the tops. We have a sponsors’ and a playing guernsey.

“It shows we’re a proper club now, and not just a concept,” he said.

The Warriors will be represented in the 2021 Ballarat Football Netball League Under Nine competition.

The draw is set for release this month, which will assist the club’s planning as they enter their first year of play.

“We’re hoping to launch the Warriors’ first home game here in the second round. Everyone will come here, so it will be very exciting to have kids running around, and to host about 500 people,” Mr Liversage said.

The Warriors’ Woolworths Cricket Blast program kicked off on Tuesday afternoon, 23 February, and will continue at the Smythesdale Recreation Reserve in the coming weeks.