Sport
6 June, 2025
Warriors continue to build
The Stawell Warriors’ A-grade netballers put in their best performance for the season, losing to Dimboola by 17 goals at Dimboola Recreation Reserve in round seven of the Wimmera Football Netball League.
The scoreboard was not reflective of the performance of the Warriors who troubled one of the premiership fancies for four quarters.
The Warriors were tough in the first quarter to trail by six at quarter time and kept their momentum going in the second quarter to keep the deficit the same at the main break.
The Roos got a handle on the Warriors in the third quarter, flexing their muscles to extend the margin to 13 goals at the final break before running out 67-50 winners.
Holly Graveson and Ayva Mitchell were again solid in attack with 33 and 17 goals respectively.
Warriors coach Jemma Clarkson said everyone played well and can hold their heads up high.
“We were competitive all day and when they built on their lead, we didn’t let it blow out, and it was our best performance of the year,” Clarkson said.
“We went out there with grit and determination not to be outplayed or outmuscled, and our goal as a team was supporting each other on the court, and everyone did that.
“Everyone stepped up and it was pleasing to see the way they played. Dimboola is a classy side, and I think they are one of the teams to watch going into the finals.”
Goalkeeper Sophie Dyer was injured in the warmup, so under-17 player Sophie Birch stepped up in her absence and Clarkson said Sophie and Alana Graveson, also an under-17 player was a shining point.
“They had a tough job in defence playing on capable, experienced and tall, accurate goalies and both did a sensational job of leading the defence all day, alongside Meg Walker,” Clarkson said.
“Sophie got a lot of balls and got better as the game went on. She knew she was coming onto the bench, but losing Sophie meant she was elevated.
“Alana in wing defence held herself well, and Meg Walker as goal defence is continuing her stellar season.”
Clarkson said due to everyone’s performances, it was hard to list the two best players.
“I leave a lot of the best player stuff to our capable team managers, and they said this week was the toughest week to choose from because everyone played well,” Clarkson said.
“All the things we are working on are coming together and we are excited about the rest of the season.”
The Warriors now have a two-week break due to the King’s Birthday long weekend and their league bye, and Clarkson said it has come at the right time.
“We have rested this week because across the club we have suffered a few injuries, so we made sure we are recuperating and recovering,” Clarkson said.
“Next week we will see how everyone’s bodies are holding up and will look to have a run against the B-grade and prepare for the second half of the season.
“Injuries happen and we are lucky that we have a talented 17-and-under group who are ready to step up.”
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