James Murphy
THE Kowree Naracoorte Tatiara Netball Association tips off alongside its football counterpart this weekend, with plenty to behold in Round 1 of competition.
In 2023 the Penola Eagles topped the A Grade competition, winning the flag from second place.
They finished a close second to Keith in the minor rounds, but stepped things up a notch come finals.
Winning the first qualifying final against Lucindale, Penola then met Keith in the second qualifier where it claimed a strong 22-goal win.
That booked the Eagles the first ticket into the grand final, while sending the minor premiers into a must-win preliminary final against Lucindale.
The win came for the reigning premiers and Keith set up a chance to claim back-to-back championships.
All that stood in its way was a confidence-filled Penola and that proved an obstacle too great on the day.
The Eagles impressed on the big stage and set themselves up for success with a big first quarter.
Outscoring their rival 14-4, they then went on to win every term, aside from the third where both teams scored eight goals.
At the end of the clash Penola emerged premiers 51-28.
As such the club will be the team to beat heading into Round 1 of the 2024 season, with a meeting against Mundulla to open the Eagles’ season at home.
Mundulla finished down the order in seventh place last season, but will be determined to move up the ranks in 2024.
Penola will be under new management, with premiership playing coach Kailtin Egan returning to her home club at North Gambier.
Maddy Teakle has taken over the coaching role and will be well equipped to lead the Eagles to further success, but rival clubs will be eager to clip their wings.
Keith is one such rival and the Crows have a point to prove after their disappointing end to 2023.
They open the season away to Bordertown, which should have them well placed for a win to start the year.
The Roosters finished last year in eighth but under the guidance of coach Alex Langley they will also be hoping for improved results.
Border Districts will host Kingston for Round 1, which could be a one-sided affair if last season is anything to go by.
Border Districts qualified for finals in 2023, but bowed out in the first round.
Kingston on the other hand had just two wins for the year and finished as the wooden spooners.
Despite that, the Saints’ Division 1 netballers finished as premiers so expect some top junior talent on show in their A Grade ranks.
Throw in the addition of coach – and current Association president – Nicole Pink and Kingston could be on the rise.
Kybybolite hosts Lucindale in what could be a close encounter.
The two teams had some good battles last year, while finishing fifth and third respectively.
Another entertaining battle could be on the cards and both sides will be determined to start their campaigns with a win.
Naracoorte’s A Grade netballers will have the bye for Round 1 due to Padthaway not having a top side.
