League claims finals win

MEMBERS of the Ballarat Football Netball League are preparing to take to the court for Netball Victoria’s Association Championship final following top performances during the qualifying games last weekend.

The Western Association matches took place in Warrnambool on Sunday, and BFNL netball manager Gemma Murphy said each representing team excelled.

“We fared very strong the entire day across all teams,” she said. “All teams made the finals. The 15s champ team went into overtime in their finals which was a nail-biting match.

“They lost by a goal which was tough but overall we were very successful. The atmosphere was great and the girls were very keen to be out there. It was good to see netball back in full form.”

About 45 BFNL athletes competed in the qualifying games as part of an under 13s, under 17s, and two under 15s teams.

With the under 13s and under 17s sides finishing in the top two of the Warrnambool qualifier, the teams will represent BFNL as part of nearly 40 associations competing in the Finals Day on Sunday 18 June at Parkville.

Ms Murphy said the league couldn’t be prouder of the two teams.

“We’re immensely proud of them and the work and effort that everyone’s put in,” she said.

“It’s been a nine-month program for our kids and coaches this year so we’re really thankful they’re representing the BFNL and we wish them all the best on Finals Day.

“It’s a pathway for everyone involved not just for our athletes but for our umpires as well.”

In the leadup to the association championships, the league’s under 15s, under 17s and under 13s champ teams travelled to Geelong each Monday for 12 weeks to compete in the Barwon Junior Championships.

“It’s been a really big program for us this year and everyone’s put in a lot of work but obviously it’s paying off,” Ms Murphy said. “It’s been a very successful year.”