PRE-SEASON training has a slightly different feel for Wentworth’s SFNL A Grade this time around.
After going back-to-back in 2022 and 2023 (and going undefeated through the COVID-interrupted 2021 season, which was cancelled early), the Roos looked well on track for another flag last year.
But nobody told this to Ouyen United, whose back half of the season saw them rocket into the top four and eventually claim the premiership, ending the NSW side’s insane run of 1287 days between defeats.
With the winning streak done, there is nothing to lose for the netball powerhouse, which should remain as strong as ever in 2025.
It’s fair to say the appetite is back and bigger than ever for the Roos after sitting with the rare defeat for the past four months.
It could also spell trouble for the rest of the competition.
The Roos were back into pre-season post-Christmas in recent weeks and playing coach Amanda Edwards said the break has been beneficial for the squad.
“I think the rest and time off has been great, the girls have taken the time off the rest and now we’re back into again,” she said.
“We took our time and reflected on the game, and clearly it’s not the way we wanted it to go but Ouyen were the better team on the day.
“Winning and losing is a part of sport and it’s really about how bounce back from that.
“Time will probably tell as we keep moving on, we’re always striving to keep learning and improving.
“No doubt there will be some nerves at the start of the new season but a lot of excitement as well.”
Wentworth has been able to maintain its strong squad, which should also have added depth come the start of the 2025 campaign.
Emily Hosking and Tegan Rogers are both on the comeback trail after injury, while more emerging youngsters could get opportunity at the top level.
Lola McInerney and Issy McPhee both made their debuts in 2024 and there could be more on the way.
“We’ve been able to retain our players again which is fantastic, and the numbers look good with a number of younger girls coming through the ranks and other coming back from injury as well,” Edwards said.
“It was was so great to see these young girls, the future of the club coming through. Lola and Issy got their chances at A-Grade level and did a great job, and we have players like Torah Woodhead and Alice Siale coming through the ranks as well, we’re lucky to have them.
“Who knows, we might see them get their opportunity at stages during the year.”
