Fox steps up

Edenhope’s Lavinia Fox will vice-captain Team Vic at this year’s 15 and under School Sport Australia Netball Championships.

Fox, 15, is one of 12 talented young netballers from throughout Victoria to win selection for the championships, in Werribee from July 28 to August 3.

Fox attends Ballarat Clarendon College and made her Wimmera Netball Association debut with Horsham Saints this season.

Her mother Lee Fox said this year marked the third time the midcourter-goalie had made a Victorian team for junior national championships.

“In 2015, Lavinia won gold with the 12 and under team in Perth,” she said.

“You can’t get selected the following year, and then last year she was selected in the 15 and under team as a bottom-age player. The team won gold at the Pacific School Games in Adelaide.”

Mrs Fox said the Victorian team was in a strong position to defend its gold medal.

“Their defensive end is very strong. They’ve retained three bottom-age defenders from last year who will be very strong this year,” she said.

“They should also be strong in the midcourt and have some promising newcomers in the goals.

“Lavinia is very excited to be in the team and extremely honoured to be elected vice-captain and part of the leadership team.

“As part of her role she has to help run the warm-up and motivate the team.”

Players in the 15 and under championships are in the running to be chosen for an Australian team.