Leaders to drive standards for Strikers

ALTHOUGH it’s a Victorian Netball League rookie, Bendigo Strikers had plenty of experience to draw on in selecting on-court leaders for the 2024 season.

A multiple premiership-winning captain at Sandhurst, Meg Williams is club captain and leader of the championship team.

The Strikers’ 23-and-under-23 team will be captained by Grace Hammond.

Coach of the Strikers championship team Tracey Brereton said there was a lot of leadership depth.

Joint vice-captains to Williams will be Chelsea Sartori and Milly Brock as chosen by the coaches and players.

“Meg is a wonderful choice as captain,” Brereton said.

“She works hard, demands excellence from herself and also drives work ethic and culture throughout the team and club.

“Every time in team breaks or huddles or breaks you will find Meg always talking to players, guiding them and motivating them.

“Chelsea is a great leader by doing. Her actions on court drive her team-mates. She is tough and fearless.

“On top of her depth of knowledge and on-court talent, Milly is a popular member of the team and provides important input to team discussions.”

The 23-and-under squad held the same process as the championship squad in selecting leaders.

“We have built a great culture and buy-in amongst the squad quickly and to have leaders voted by their peers is empowering and genuine” said coach Jayden Cowling.

Grace Hammond will be supported by Chloe Langley, Shae Clifford and Abbey Larkin in the leadership group.

At the age of 22, Hammond was playing coach of Tongala which won last season’s A Grade premiership in the Murray Football Netball League.

The Strikers first matches were played last Wednesday night against Wilson Storage Southern Saints at the State Netball Centre.

First home games for the Strikers will be on 28April at Red Energy Arena in West Bendigo against Boroondara Express.