Jump for joy: Roos ready for second court build

OFFICIALS at Anakie Football Netball Club are excited to get construction under way for its second netball court, following years of lobbying and sub-standard facilities.

The second netball court earmarked for build at Anakie Reserve in De Motts Road will provide invaluable benefits to the Roos’ strengthening netball program.

Anakie FNC president Heath Menhennet said construction of the club’s new netball court would begin early next month with a hopeful end date of May, which would see the club using the new court for a handful of months this year.

“Since the announcement of Council ($100,000) and State ($197,000) funding announced in 2022, it has been a long yet successful wait with the tireless efforts by community partners at the City of Greater Geelong.

“This addition will now bring the netball facilities at Anakie Reserve in line with other clubs within our league.

“The project will locate a new court north of the existing one, included with flood lighting and fencing.

“In 2023 Anakie FNC, fielded all four junior grades including a NetSetGo program.

“We also enjoyed our Under 13s, 17s and 19s making it through to the grand final and to which our under 13s were triumphant.”

Anakie’s senior program had a sub-standard 2023 campaign with its A Grade outfit finishing 10th (3 wins, 15 losses), B Grade following suit (3 wins, 15 losses) in 10th, C Grade managing a lone win to finish 12th (1 win, 17 losses), and D Grade taking the the wooden spoon (1 win, 17 losses).

Anakie netball co-ordinator Meagan Sproule said there was a massive level of importance in having two courts, which ensured all grades have the appropriate court time required and would in turn have an effect on the senior program.

“The extra court will allow our NetSetGo program to operate on the same evening as the rest of the players, creating a better atmosphere both for the players families and club.

“Anakie previously used the asphalted tennis courts which were notorious for creating foot and ankle issues with the slippery surface.

“During the season volunteers donate their time to clear the tennis courts of debris before each home game to be able to have an area for teams to warm up.

“This construction will certainly reduce risks and provide up to date facilities for all league teams.”

Anakie will host Bannockburn on April 6 to star the Geelong & District Football Netball League season with the town set to “double in size” for the beginning of the campaign.