WITH Round 1 of the Victorian Netball League (VNL) set to kick off on Wednesday, all eyes will turn to new club Casey, who will be hoping to make an immediate impact. The 18-round competition will allow for all 10 clubs to play each other once, with some teams facing off twice throughout the season.
The Casey Demons will not have to wait long, kick-starting their campaign on Wednesday night against Melbourne University Lightning at the State Netball and Hockey Centre. The competition will boast some big name players with the likes of retired Collingwood star Erin Bell set to pull on the dress for the Casey Demons. Bell will offer great experience in the attacking end credit to her smooth movement and beautiful high shot. Emma Ryde has made the move to Casey after playing with Boroondara last season. Ryde is no stranger to the big stage having played for the Melbourne Vixens on multiple occasions, making her presence felt in the goal circle.
Lara Dunkley impressed for the Vixens during pre-season competition up in Brisbane with her smooth movement, clever drives and precision with ball in hand, making her a valuable asset for Boroondara Express. Collingwood AFL star Jaidyn Stephenson’s sister Tegan Stephenson is also set to play for the Express this season, renowned for her strength and defensive pressure in the circle.
Meanwhile, the City West Falcons will be pleased to see the return of talented defender Jacqueline Newton who offers great pressure in the goal circle. She has played for both the Melbourne Fury and Melbourne Vixens making her a solid option for the Falcons. Jane Cook will also prove to be an important player for the Falcons credit to her accuracy under the post and high volume of shots.
The Geelong Cougars have named some handy inclusions to the squad with Collingwood ANL player Melissa Bragg and Vanessa Augustini amongst some of the other players. Bragg is set to take on a coaching capacity this season credit to her netball experience and general knowledge making her a key figure in the Cougars line-up. Diamond Creek product, Kiara Legg is also set to make her debut for the Ariels after making the squad.
Cross coder Jasmine Ferguson will be once again playing for Hawks Netball. The former Gippsland Power product has showed her worth in both footy and netball while fellow footballer Maggie Caris is set to pull on the bibs for Melbourne University Lightning. The Greater Western Victoria player could prove to be a handy in for the Lightning given her ability to read the play down the court and make a solid lead. North East Blaze netballer Serena Gibbs also plays football with the Eastern Ranges but is set to take the court again after a dominant season down in defence last year.
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