THE Port MacDonnell Netball Club has been fortunate to have plentiful numbers again this Mid South East netball season, with strong numbers across senior and junior teams.
The 2023 A Grade side was competitive in all games, losing quite a few close contests and finished in sixth position on the ladder.
This year the Demons hope to make the top four and experience playing finals again, something that has eluded the club since 2019.
Most players have remained from 2023, with some new faces welcomed and some juniors who should make their way through to the senior ranks.
Narelle Lewis again takes the A Grade coaching reins, with many years of netball knowledge behind her.
She brings the best out of the players, with the knowledge she possesses and passes on.
Shooting goals will be Kori Collins and Cody Manning.
Collins had a solid year last year, her first for the Demons and she should add to that this season now she has settled at the club.
Manning was last year’s A Reserve league most consistent and has earned an opportunity in A Grade after a stellar shooting season.
Megan Hein and talented juniors are also waiting in the wings for their opportunity in the goal circle.
Kate Faint, Alysha Coon and Hein will all feature in the mid-court.
Coon is also a capable defender, with exceptional aerial skills, making her a perfect candidate to run the centre.
Faint is a tenacious player who does not give an inch, while all three can play any mid-court position.
The defensive end includes gun recruit Emily Thompson.
Thomson is a past Glencoe junior and senior player and will combine well in defence with Alana Berkefeld, who will play her third season for the Demons.
She is a strong defender whose on-court presence is settling, along with an incredible ability to create many turnovers in defence.
Four juniors will be a big part of the A and A Reserve sides.
Sophie and Bailee Lewis have been given the opportunity to be the junior development players in 2024.
Both are talented players waiting for their A Grade opportunity.
Sophie plays mid-court and is gutsy, tenacious, fast and never gives up.
Bailee is a versatile player, playing goals or mid-court.
With height, speed and accuracy on her side, she poses a threat for any circle defender.
Layla McPherson and Bree Ridding are the A-squad junior training partners for season 2024.
Both girls will gain valuable experience to help them further develop their skills.
