MUCH like last season, the 2024 Central Murray netball competition is shaping up to be another exciting year of netball for players and spectators alike.
It was certainly a close race for last year’s premiership title, with little separating the top four teams in Swan Hill, Lake Boga, the Mallee Eagles and Balranald.
The Swans will once again be under the leadership of co-coaches Madeleine Nalder, Kelsey McCoy and Mollie Quin, all of whom will be wanting to keep their winning streak alive with back-to-back flags.
But minor premiers Lake Boga will be out for vengeance after a narrow grand final loss in overtime. With nearly a full line-up returning to the court and still under the guidance of experienced coach Anne-Marie Stewart, the Magpies are in a good position to be hailed as the team to beat again in 2024.
Both the Swans and the Magpies will need to wary of complacency, while also managing pressure of expectations as the two top sides.
Lots of new coaches are stepping into the top roles this season, with Cohuna, Tyntynder, Nyah-Nyah West United and the Eagles all under new leadership.
This season could see teams like the Kangas finally work their way towards the top half of the ladder, having recruited well in the off-season and taking a positive attitude into the new year.
The Bulldogs could also see a higher ladder finish than last year, mixing up their line-up and working hard during preseason to set themselves up for success.
With an exodus of players from the Eagles, their ladder position might just slip, and the Blues will be looking to claim their podium finish this season after just missing out on finals last year.
Wooden-spooners Koondrook-Barham may struggle to lift themselves from the bottom of the ladder, having trouble recruiting and losing some of their key players.
Balranald look to be in a good position to stay up the top of the competition, with Elli-Jane Pollard joining premiership coach Jess Parry to lead the Roos this season.
So, will the Swans be able to lay claim to their 11th premiership, or will Lake Boga’s clinical netball get them over the line this year?
Will the Woorinen and the Eagles still be finals contenders, or will the Blues or the Doggies crack the top five instead?
Only one thing is for certain in 2024 – a new year means it is anyone’s game to win, and nothing is guaranteed. Good luck to all the clubs, players, coaches and supporters in what is set to be a compelling season of netball ahead.
