SOUTH Mildura’s Ellen Brewster was feeling right at home when she stepped into defence for Saturday’s A Grade game against Robinvale Euston.
Brewster, a new recruit this year for the Bulldogs, has spent the majority of her time in goal – an area of the court where she said she wasn’t quite used to playing.
But on the weekend the experienced player and this week’s Netballer of the Round was shifted back into defence and said it was “fun” to be on the opposite side of things again.
“I can shoot but I have been absolutely awful this year so I am glad to be back where I belong,” she said.
“I have done (defence) most of my life so it’s just a bit easier.
“I don’t really have to think about it as much as when shooting.”
Brewster said her height had been one of the reasons she was chosen for attack.
“We are a club that has a lot of defenders but there are not many shooters,” she said.
“I think because I was relatively tall it was where I had to go.”
Before joining South Mildura, Brewster played netball in areas across country Victoria, including in Geelong, and spent a few years at Bambill before moving away about 15 years ago.
She said she was glad she had chosen South as she enjoyed the club atmosphere.
Brewster spoke highly of Bulldogs coach Sally Moore, who stepped in to coach the A Grade side this year.
“I didn’t really know anyone (at the club), it was just close to my house and it was at the new (Mildura Sporting Precinct) so I thought ‘that will do’,” she said.
“They’re very friendly and our coach Sally is absolutely lovely and knows her stuff.
“It is a good vibe.”
South Mildura defeated the Eagles by four goals on Saturday.
Brewster praised the young Eagles side, who fought hard against the now fourth-placed Bulldogs.
“They are lovely opponents,” she said.
“Some of their young players, especially their goal attack (Georgia Giofrelle), are very good.
“They are great physical but clean side.”
Brewster said she expected Red Cliffs would bring a similar heat when the sides faced off for the final round of the home-and-away season on Saturday.
She said she hoped her team could secure a final win to help lock in their spot in the top four.
*** As the SFNL netballer of the round, Brewster receives $100 courtesy of Mildura Golf Resort and Fairways Bistro.
