EUROA BLACK UNDER 15
By KYLIE PENNY
IT was the first match of the season for Euroa Black under-15s, played on a spectacular day in Shepparton against Goulburn Valley Grammar School Wildcats’, and the team was full of energy.
Together with coach Tracey Johnson they had enjoyed some solid weeks of training in the lead-up.
This was a new team, filled with determination and enthusiasm.
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Mabel took on the role of captain for the match, and the first centre pass went Euroa’s way.
Aggy moved the ball quickly out of the centre and into the ring to Mabel and Bridie.
After a few moments of first-game nerves, the first goal was on the board, courtesy of Bridie.
Euroa maintained strong pressure throughout the first quarter, with Aggy, Audrey, and Anika working hard through the mid-court.
In the second quarter, coach Tracey made a few changes and the team came out energised.
Brianna scored a strong goal in the ring, while Adelaide and Mabel worked hard to contain the Wildcats in defence.
Anika was impressive in wing defence, moving with purpose and defending every opportunity.
The third quarter saw Heidi W move into goal defence, with Adelaide continuing her strong performance to block the Wildcats’ advances.
Audrey began the quarter in centre and made a notable impact, supported by a focused mid-court team including Bridie, Heidi W, and Anika.
However, a heavy trip saw Audrey leave the court for first aid - thanks to Lee for the assistance.
Quick position changes followed, with Aggy stepping into goal shooter for the first time - and scoring three quick goals.
The Magpies showed admirable fighting spirit.
In the final quarter and down by 11 goals, Euroa came out determined.
Mabel took centre, with Aggy and Brianna in the ring, Adelaide in goalkeeper, Heidi W in goal defence, and Audrey and Bridie holding the mid-court.
The team played with intensity and purpose, applying pressure and fighting hard to try get that elusive first win of the season.
Despite such teamwork and determination, the final score stood at Euroa 13, Wildcats 25.
UNDER 13 DIVISON ONE
By JO BURDEN
IT was a warm afternoon on Saturday, but Euroa Secondary Division One kept their cool to deliver a commanding 43–10 win over Saint Opals.
Though it took a few moments for the team to settle into rhythm, the scoreboard did not show it.
Euroa opened strongly with two quick goals, setting the tone early.
Mid-courter Evie Buchanan showed impressive speed and control, allowing Zara Hill and Ava Gordon to work seamlessly together in the ring, putting the Saint Opals’ defence under constant pressure.
In the second quarter, Tully Watson and Molly Fowler were relentless, consistently outrunning their opponents and creating space across the court.
The team’s fitness and pace proved hard to match.
Feeding from the centre court was sharp and well-timed, helping the goalers position themselves perfectly to convert.
From the first whistle, Euroa’s structure and energy gave them a decisive edge.
The team pounced on loose balls, turning 50–50 contests into Euroa possessions.
In defence, Issy Gordon and Isla Moore stood tall, holding their ground against opponents and leading a defensive unit that allowed little room to move.
Their intercepts and turnovers were swiftly converted at the other end.
Coach Melinda’s sideline encouragement kept the team focused on their roles and training strategies.
There was added energy with the welcome of Genevieve Gordon as assistant coach - a promising addition to the coaching staff.
By half-time, Euroa had built a commanding 23–4 lead, with all players showing great adaptability as they rotated through different positions.
Euroa’s dominance only grew after the break, allowing Saint Opals to score just one goal in the third quarter.
The coaches’ target to hold the Opals to under 10 goals was met with grit and determination.
It was a strong team performance and a clear sign that Euroa Secondary Division one is hitting its stride early in the season.
UNDER 11
By AOIFE HAMILL
BENEATH blue skies in Shepparton town,
The netball girls wore not a frown.
With spirits high and laces tight,
They faced the Cats, prepared to fight.
Mooroopna came with claws unsheathed,
Determined, loud, wanting to beat.
But Euroa stood, proud and true
In black and white with skies so blue.
With Paige in centre, swift and bright,
And Ava, Lily flanking right,
They moved the ball with steady hands,
Like pros who’d played in bigger stands.
The first was fierce, with goals well-earned,
Though tempers flared and heads were turned.
Ella Kelly held her ground,
Defending smart, feet light and sound.
Claire Bickerton, a wall so strong,
Made sure the Cats did not dance long.
And down the court young Scarlett flew,
A pass to Lily - goals shot through.
Matilda Eddy, cool and clear,
Scored some beauties, making parents cheer.
The game grew tight by quarter three -
Just one goal split the victory.
But oh, the jostles, pushes, standing on toes -
Not every bruise or bump still shows.
Though Euroa’s grace began to fray,
They still knew how to play Jason’s way.
Complaints flew in from both the sides -
When did this game lose joy and pride?
It’s netball, sure - but let’s be fair,
Not State of Origin played out there.
And through it all stood Coach Jason, wise,
With steady voice and kind, clear eyes.
He kept them focused, calm, and fair,
With humour, heart, and steady care.
And yet, through bumps and flared tempers tossed,
The Euroa crew knew what could be lost.
If all was risked for just a win,
Mother’s Day for some could be quite grim.
So as the Cats purred at their prize,
Our girls stood tall, with knowing eyes.
They knew the joy was in the game,
And trophies were not the only aim.
They held their own with heart and grace,
With bruises worn like silk and lace.
And though the scoreboard told one tale,
The real win? That they did not bail.
So here’s to grit and goals and fun,
To teamwork shining like the sun.
To mums who’ll cheer through sore feet rub -
Next time, we’ll take the Mooroopna cup.
UNDER 11 WHITE
By BIANCA BROOKS
EUROA faced off against Kyabram in a tough match, with Jocelyn making a cracking debut and showing plenty of promise.
Despite facing a much taller opposition and having no substitutes available, the Euroa girls gave it their all.
The team is continuing to grow in confidence, learning more about the game and their positions each week.
There were some impressive passages of play, including great teamwork and passing.
Although Euroa went down 11-3, the effort and improvement were clear to see.
UNDER 13 BLACK
By KRISTY HOURIGAN
IT was a tough day out for the Euroa Blacks, who came up against a strong Mooroopna side.
The scoreboard did not reflect the effort, with all the girls putting in a huge amount of work and never giving up.
Zoe Pretlove was a standout, playing an exceptional game in both goal keeper and goal shooter.
Her versatility and determination were a real highlight.
She was awarded Star of the Week, which truly reflected the effort and impact she had on the game.
There were plenty of positives to take from the match, and the team can be proud of how they stuck together and supported each other right to the final whistle.
Looking ahead to next week.
