Netballers seek to fill next season squads

SEVERAL of the young stars of Heathcote FNC’s 17-under netball team have already signed up for the Saints try-outs for the 2024 season.

Among those to have signed for the first of the trials to be run on 23 November at 6pm at the Golden City courts in West Bendigo is Telani Bibby.

An outstanding run by Bibby in 2023 included being runner-up for the Bendigo Bank Heathcote DFNL undder-17 fairest and best award.

A year earlier and Bibby was the competition’s number one player.

Ava Harris and Jaclyn McNutt also played key roles in the Saints run to this season’s under-17 first semi-final where they went down to eventual premier, Mount Pleasant by a goal.

Both have signed up for selection trials.

Heathcote has re-appointed Brooke Bolton and Kelsey Hayes as joint coaches of the A Grade team for next season.

The Saints will be determined to climb the ladder after this year’s fifth placing.

Among the changes to the line-up is the departure of goal shooter Annalyse Carroll to coach Maryborough Giants.

“We are working hard to recruit a goaler and at least one more defender,” Bolton said. “A lot of players have already registered for trials which is a great sign.”

Other trials for the Saints senior netball teams will be on 2 December from 10am at Pigeon Park in Heathcote’s Barrack Reserve, and on Monday, 4 December from 6pm at the Golden City courts in West Bendigo.

On the footy front, Heathcote has signed ruckman James Orr from Kyneton, and rover/forward Zak Saad from Rupertswood.

Both will play significant roles for the Andrew Saladino-coached team which was runner-up this season to Mount Pleasant.

A multiple premiership player, Saad’s football journey includes stints with Coburg, Romsey, Gold Coast Suns, and Southport Sharks.