Heathcote works on game against Macedon

GAME one in Heathcote’s series of football practice matches kicks off this Sunday against Macedon at Pigeon Park in Heathcote’s Barrack Reserve.

A big day of footy action starts with under-18s at 11am and will be followed by the reserves at 1pm and seniors from 3pm.

There’s been significant changes to Heathcote’s squad as it strives to fight back after last year’s win-loss tally of 3-12 and a draw on the way to finishing eighth in the Bendigo Bank Heathcote DFNL.

Among the recruiting targets for senior coach Andrew Saladino was more height and marking power in the forward line.

The Saints have gained Sean Williams from Rochester and a premiership-winner with Eaglehawk.

Williams joins Dylan Johnstone as key targets in the Saints attack.

There’s plenty of midfield and on-ball options as the Saints welcome Stefan Rasinac from Aberfeldie and Dillon Williams from Rochester.

The height and versatility of Hugh Freckleton who played in Golden Square’s premiership team in ’24 is another huge plus for the Saints.

Heathcote has also retained the experience and skill of Rhys Bolton, Will Tobin, Justin Bateson, Joey Beedle, and Daniel Johnstone.

Restricted to just six games because of injury last season, co-coach Liam Jacques who earnt a Cheatley Medal as league fairest and best will be aiming to have a significant impact on the team’s run.

Another crucial player for Heathcote is Codie Price who sets up plenty of attacks with his run and skill from a half-back flank or wing.

On the netball front, Brooke Price, nee Bolton, is coach of the A-grade team.

The gun mid-courter is a multiple winner of the Esther Cheatley Medal as league fairest and best.

Other coaching appointments for netball include Anna Brown, A-reserve, Sophie Monkley, B-grade; and Vicki Little, B-reserve.

Heathcote’s back at Pigeon Park on March 21 to take on Pyramid Hill from the Loddon Valley.

The Saints will have an intra-club match on March 28 at Pigeon Park.

After a bye in the season’s opening round on April 11 the Saints kick off their ’26 campaign on April 18 against Leitchville Gunbower at home.