Dual BFNL league medallist departs Warriors

ALREADY gone from BFNL netball powerhouse Sunbury for 2026, star midcourter Simona De Filippo is now gone from the region’s Victorian Netball League club.

De Filippo, who became a dual Sally McLean Medal winner at the age of 21 when she won the second of her back-to-back league best and fairest awards in 2024, will begin a new chapter in her stellar netball career after signing with Western Australian State League club West Coast Warriors.

A key foundation player for the Western Warriors, who entered the VNL in 2024, De Filippo was a former Hawks VNL 19-and-under best and fairest winner.

She finished runner-up to North Ballarat’s Maddy Selmon in last year’s Sally McLean Medal count.

De Filippo had signed to play her country league netball this season with Tatura in the Goulburn Valley league, but will instead now head to Western Australia.

The Western Warriors paid tribute to their departing star on the club’s social media accounts.

“We would like to extend our warmest goodbye and good luck to our Championship player, Simona Di Filippo,” the Warriors said.

“Simona has worked incredibly hard to establish herself within the Victorian netball community, and we are thrilled to share that she has been offered a contract across the water in Western Australia, where she will take the next step in her playing career.

“As a valued member of our inaugural Championship side, Simona has demonstrated unwavering commitment, professionalism, and loyalty to the Warriors brand.

“She has been an important part of our foundation, and we are extremely proud of everything she has achieved during her time with us.

“From our family here at Western Warriors, we wish you all the very best, Simona.

“Thank you for your contribution, we cannot wait to watch your next chapter unfold.”

The Warriors have elevated Kiara Boyd to their Championship team, after spending the last two seasons as an integral part of the 23-and-under lineup.

A dual-code athlete, who also excels in football, Boyd represented Victoria’s 17-and-under netball team at last year’s national championships.

Her move into the Championship ranks was announced late last week.

“Kiara embodies the true Warriors’ values both on and off the court,” the club said.

“Her work ethic, resilience, and determination and loyalty are qualities we are incredibly proud of.

“At Western Warriors, we believe strongly in investing in our young athletes and supporting those who come through the Warriors Pathway.

“Kiara is a shining example of what that pathway can produce.”

The Championship team includes several BFNL talents, including Poppy Douglass (North Ballarat), Ruby Shannon, Eliza Gollant and Sarah Croft (Sunbury).

The Warriors are scheduled to open their 2026 season against North East Blaze at the State Netball Centre on 11 March.