New-look squad on netball court

A NEW-LOOK Heathcote squad will take to the netball court when the Bendigo Bank Heathcote DFNL’s A-grade season starts on 12 April.

The Saints make their way to Colbinabbin’s M.J. Morgan Oval to take on Mount Pleasant in the opening round.

Heathcote’s new coach Chloe Meulenmeesters will play at goal keeper as the Saints strive to keep climbing after fifth-place finishes the past two seasons.

“There’s a lot of new faces in our team,” Meulenmeesters said.

“We have a great mix of experience and a few young guns keen to perform well in every match.”

Key players who are staying on with the Saints include goal shooter Sophie Pica and goal defence Jess Peck.

“Sophie is in great form and shot brilliantly throughout all the practice matches,” Meulenmeesters said of hit-outs against Riddell and Mulwala.

“Jess Peck brings height and a lot of pressure to the defensive end.”

A talented youngster who will step up to A-grade is Telani Bibby in mid-court.

“Telani brings speed, athleticism, competes really well for the ball, and can also be switched to goal defence,” the coach said.

Other players to watch in the red, white and black include goaler and mid-court player Ava Harris, and Lauren Wright.

“There is experience, netball smarts and speed through our mid-court rotations,” Meulenmeesters said.

Newcomers for Heathcote’s top team include Brylee Tolsen and Elisa Pica in mid-court.

A triple winner of the Esther Cheatley Medal as league fairest and best, Brooke Price (nee Bolton) takes a break from playing this season as she and husband Codie Price are expecting their first child.

The Saints also recruited Cassie Zolnierczyk as goal attack.

“Cassie is another young gun who brings fast and hard drives and goaling accuracy to the team,” Meulenmeesters said.

“Her defensive pressure in and around the goal circle will create opportunities for teammates.”