Roos tipped to take next step; Bloods predicted to improve

AS an intriguing season 2025 is about to get underway, the seven BFNL A-grade coaches have had their say on how the year might pan out.

They believe Kangaroo Flat has earned the tag as early premiership favourites following a prosperous off-season on the recruiting front.

The Roos, beaten in last year’s premiership decider against Gisborne by two goals, have significantly bolstered their playing stocks by adding former Melbourne Vixens goaler Ruby Barkmeyer –who has returned to her home club – star Bendigo Strikers goal attack Teal Hocking, and Ava Hamilton to their ranks.

Their defence has also been given a boost with the return of Alicia McGlashan following a three-year stint at South Bendigo.

McGlashan, who passed the league 300-game milestone last season, has made her way back to the club where she won six A-grade premierships and seven overall.

Most coaches nominated Gisborne, which is chasing a three-peat of flags, as the next most likely team to be playing on grand final day, ahead of perennial powerhouse Sandhurst.

Asked which four clubs other than their own would comprise the final five, there was unanimous support for the big three of Gisborne, Kangaroo Flat and Sandhurst.

South Bendigo is tipped to be the biggest improver, with all six rival coaches naming the Bloods in their top five.

Three tipped Golden Square to make the jump into the five, three selected Eaglehawk, while Strathfieldsaye got the nod from one.

Declaring Kangaroo Flat as ‘the team to beat’, one coach said the Roos had simply too much talent to not be considered as premiership favourites.

“They were close last year with the list they had, and they have obviously recruited very well,” she said.

“They have increased their depth. They have got Ruby Barkmeyer, who I am a big fan of, and young Teal Hocking as well, alongside Abbey Ryan.

“So that’s three quality goalers.

“They have got Alicia McGlashan back in defence to go alongside Megan Wilson, who I rate really highly, and their midcourt with Chelsea Sartori and Ash Ryan is what I think is the best in the league.

“And they have a lot of depth, with players like Ava Hamilton floating around.

“I think they are the team to beat.”

Asked which player will win this year’s Betty Thompson Medal, the coaches were divided, with some offering a pair of selections.

Three believe star Kangaroo Flat midcourter Chelsea Sartori is a strong chance to create history by winning a third straight league best and fairest, while teammate Ruby Barkmeyer earned two nominations.

In a wide-open race, Sandhurst’s Ruby Turner, Gisborne’s Charlee Kemp and Zoe Davies, South Bendigo goal shooter Gabe Richards and Kangaroo Flat recruit Teal Hocking all scored mentions.