Cougars pair selected for Mavs’ Super Netball Reserves squad

GEELONG Cougars’ Charlize Bellette and Charli Hoey are among the 12 players who have been selected in Melbourne Mavericks’ inaugural reserves squad.

It means they’ll be under the eyes of more recruiters as they push for a Super Netball (SSN) spot.

The Mavericks have joined the fold this year after reserves was introduced last year.

All 8 teams will play each other once across a seven-week season that will run alongside Super Netball from rounds 4 to 10.

Coach Tracey Brereton said she was excited to see the talented squad grow and develop.

“This competition will allow these girls to compete and prepare for SSN level, especially for our young stars who haven’t played in the Super Netball Reserves before.”

Mavs assistant coach and head of pathways Nicole Richardson said the reserves was the premier competition for emerging Australian netball talent.

“We are thrilled to be able to provide another opportunity for blossoming Victorian talent who are aspiring to reach that top level, with a second Victorian Super Netball Reserves team.”

The Mavs will host their first-ever game at Waverley Netball Centre on May 3, when they take on the Firebirds Futures.

Meanwhile, the Cougars’ championship-level team came up trumps in their once-a-season fixture at Wurdi Baierr Stadium on Sunday.

The Cougars defeated Melbourne University Lightning 49-37 in the Victorian Netball League.

Goalie Emma Buwalda led the scoring with 23 goals with Torquay’s Daisy O’Kane not far behind on 17.

Elisa Hall and Ashlee Smith chipped in with nine goals between them.

The Cougars went down 60-45 in the 23 and under game as goal shooter Ashlee Smith converted 26 chances.