The wait is almost over

For some, the football-netball offseason has come and gone too quickly. For others, pre-season has stretched for an eternity and they are more than ready and raring to go.

For those in the latter camp, the wait is all but over as Horsham District teams return to the field and the court at the weekend.

For the past two months I’ve been speaking with A Grade coaches and netball directors about how their clubs are shaping up in the lead-up to the 2017 season.

The Weekly Advertiser’s Football-netball Countdown has provided district league club players, supporters and followers with a snapshot of how each club is faring.

Netball leaders have discussed how preseason has been progressing, who they’ve recruited, who’s coming back to the club and how they are looking to cover losses.

Several clubs have welcomed new coaches, who are excited to see what they can bring to the table, whether it is furthering junior development or helping their team advance further up the ladder.

The common theme throughout the length of the countdown has been everyone is expecting a tough season and everyone hopes to be competitive. Reigning premier Harrow-balmoral was a clear standout last season, but many are keen to see how a major re-shuffle following several departures will affect the Southern Roos’ chances of going back to back.

Teams are also keen to welcome back Taylors Lake and Swifts to A Grade compeition, ensuring a less interrupted season due to extra byes. Swifts, under club newcomer Courtney Morrow, and Taylors Lake, led by Gab Mcculloch, will meet each other in round one on Saturday.

Bek Harvey’s new-look Kalkee outfit has the tough task of taking on the Roos, who still have a wealth of talent across the board despite several key player losses.

Laharum has pulled off a late recruiting coup, welcoming former Noradjuhaquantong premiership defender Rebecca Mcintyre back to the court. She is likely to play up both ends following the departure of shooter Nikki Ervin.

The remaining matches will see Noradjuha-quantong meet Edenhope-apsley; Natimuk United host Rupanyup and Jeparitrainbow take on Southern Mallee Giants. Best of luck to all teams. •