NETBALL Victoria released the 2023 Victorian Netball League (VNL) fixture last week, with an 18-round season planned for next year. Reigning premiers City West Falcons will be eyeing off going back-to-back after defeating Geelong Cougars in the decider. The first grand final rematch will take place in the opening round in a standalone Sunday fixture on March 19.
The season itself kicks off on Wednesday, March 15, with the other four Round 1 matches played that night at the State Netball Centre. The premier venue will be the main venue for the season, with a number of alternative stadiums used throughout the year. The Cougars-Falcons clash will take place at Wurdi Baierr Stadium in Torquay.
Other venues include Oakleigh Recreation Centre, Casey Stadium, Altona Sports Centre, Jubilee Park, Maroondah Nets, La Trobe Sports Stadium and Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium.
The 18-round season will run until Wednesday, July 19, with the majority of matches played on a Wednesday, and the occasional weekend clashes. The two exceptions are a Monday battle on May 8 between Boroondara Express and Melbourne University Lightning, and a four-match schedule on Friday, April 21 in Round 5.
In 2023, Pride Round will take place in Round 9 on Wednesday, May 17, with all matches at the State Netball Centre. First Nations Round is the other themed round, with that scheduled for a fortnight later on Wednesday, May 31. The Round 11 fixture on that night will also all take place at the State Netball Centre.
Teams will also have a break in mid April to allow for the National Championships, with Round 4 held on Wednesday, April 5, while Round 5 will not take place until Friday, April 21. Finals will take place in late July, with the top four teams qualifying for the post-season series.
As has been the case in recent years, first and second place at the end of the home and away season will face off for a spot in the 2023 VNL Grand Final. The loser will take on the winner of third and fourth, who have a do-or-die elimination final in week one. The victor from that week two preliminary final will advance to the grand final on Wednesday, August 9. All finals will be played at the State Netball Centre.
For the full 2023 VNL fixture, click here.
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