BENDIGO Pioneers launched their pre-season last week with the announcement of Cherie O'Neill as new under 18 girls coach.

O'Neill takes the reigns from Shawn McCormick, who stepped down from the role after three years of service.

O'Neill coached Bendigo Thunder in 2016 and 2017, becoming the inaugural Northern Football League women's competition premiers in the latter season.

She spent the foll...