Nangiloc
COACH: Annette Emonson
2023 SEASON: Runner-up
FIRST MONTH: Bambill (H), Gol Gol (A), Werrimull (A), Cardross (H).
ARRIVALS: Elisha Gottschutzke
DEPARTURES: Ashlee Loveridge
SO close yet so far last year, Nangiloc are keen to ensure history does repeat itself this year.
As the Millewa A-grade minor premiers last campaign, the Demons went agonisingly close to claiming ultimate glory, only to lose by a solitary goal in a thrilling grand final against Werrimull.
Now looking to push on following consecutive grand final defeats, Nangiloc have retained the majority of their A-grade squad which won 13 of 15 home and away matches last year.
New coach Annette Emonson has taken the reins from Dot Wilson Trophy winner Tamara Loveridge and Ginine Sluiter, however the duo will continues in important on-court roles.
The Demons also regain Elisha Gottschutzke to bolster the midcourt alongside Loveridge and Kristy Middleton, with Ashlee Loveridge the only real missing link from last season’s team.
Sluiter, who remains as club netball coordinator, said the team will continue to put their best foot forward.
“A-grade is looking pretty similar to last year,” she said.
“We’ve lost a few players in other grades but we’ve managed to get a few other players in as well, so there’s a pretty good feeling around at the moment.
“A few of us are working pretty hard together to make sure we can get back there again.
“We had such a great season but unfortunately couldn’t get it done on grand final day.
“Mistakes happen and we’ve reflected on those and tried to move our way forward.”
Sluiter said the team has worked hard in the off-season to ensure they are ready to go again.
“We’ll definitely have a strong mid-court group, but we have good performers across the court,” she said.
“Over the summer, most of us actually played basketball together to continue to try and build that bond that we already have.”
