Vixens set for BSEC showdowns

SUPER Netball side the Melbourne Vixens are heading to town in early April for a pair of pre-season games against Adelaide Thunderbirds at the Ballarat Sports Events Centre.

Along with the practice matches the Vixens will also run a netball clinic in the city.

The move by the top-level side comes after a similar series of events was planned in 2020 but put off due to the then emerging COVID-19 pandemic.

“We were really disappointed not to get to Ballarat last year, so we’re excited to be bringing live sport back to regional Victoria and meeting the fans who supported us from afar in 2020 while we were in the Queensland hub,” said Simone McKinnis, head coach of the Melbourne Vixens.

“Success for the season starts with the preparation now, so with the aim to take it all the way again this year and be holding that trophy at the end of the season, we’re looking forward to playing against the Thunderbirds, to help solidify our combinations and game plans ahead of the season.”

In addition to the games and clinic with the Vixens, Netball Victoria will also be running coaching and umpiring professional development opportunities where for accredited officials can build on their skills and knowledge of the sport.

Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle welcomed the announcements.

“Seeing the Vixens play in Ballarat will be a huge boost for all of our local netball clubs,” she said.

“Not only will there be two games with some of Australia’s best athletes on show, but there will be training sessions for players, coaches and umpires helping to develop local skills.”

The two pre-season games Thunderbirds are set for Saturday, 10 April at 4pm, and Sunday, 11 April at 12pm.

Tickets for go on sale via Ticketek on Thursday, 25 March from 9am for Melbourne Vixens members and 12pm for the general public.

The community netball clinic will happen on Saturday, 10 April with details to be confirmed, while people interested in the Netball Victoria facilitated development sessions can visit netballvic.com.au for more info.