Irymple’s youthful optimism

COACH: Sherrie Geister

ARRIVALS: Natasha Watkins, Charlize McKinnon

DEPARTURES: Sherrie Gesiter, Kasey Caristo, Mia Hollingworth

IRYMPLE’S youthful A Grade netball side has a lot to learn, but even more to offer.

That’s the view of incoming coach Sherrie Geister who believes the 2023 squad won’t be short on talent, just maybe some experience.

After finishing sixth in 2022 the Swallows will look to build on the young core of future leaders heading into the new campaign.

While the exciting young talent will be on full display, Irymple could be caught short in the experience department.

Geister herself made the call to retire following a second ACL tear last year, opening to door to coach from the sidelines after taking the reins from Tammie Rowe, while defender Kasey Caristo is also out of action through injury.

It leaves the bulk of leadership responsibility on the shoulders of emerging stars like Mackenzie Ryan, Shakara Delcastegne, Indi Spratt and Meg Hammond, who is set to return from an ACL injury of her own.

Combined with fast-improving netballers like Jorja Delcasgtegne and Sophie Price, and inclusions Natasha Watkins and Charlize McKinnon, there’s plenty to be excited about at Henshilwood Oval.

“All clubs go through these phases and it’s our turn now and we just have to do the best we can,” Geister said.

“There’s a lot of talent there but it’s maybe just lacking that on court experience to guide them through, but hopefully I can help provide that from the sidelines.

“Starting the season I think it will be all about trying to find our feet and knowing where we sit in the pecking order. These girls want to win so if we can be around that finals mark it would be fantastic but we’ll reassess as the season goes on.”

Irymple’s season begins against South Mildura on April 22.