Berwick NC – 2021 Season in Review

Berwick Netball Club demonstrated signs of improvement throughout the 2021 season across its senior competitions while its juniors also enjoyed a strong year.

D Grade was the best performer of the senior squad, while the 17 & Under Blue team went undefeated throughout the year to show signs of growth and development that will set up the Wickers for sustained success.

Reflecting on the season, A Grade coach Chloe Phillips said she was proud of all players across the club for their performance in what was a tough season to negotiate.

“I think we did really great,” she said.

“As the season went along, we were really finding our groove and our fight.

“Even though the year was interrupted, I think it was a season which the girls can be super proud of.”

The season highlights, as nominated by Phillips, were the way in which in all players were able to enjoy their games and put in good quality netball that was great to watch, as well as the 17 & Under Blue team going undefeated.

While Phillips was in admiration for the performances of all players at the Wickers this year, she was particularly fond of Melissa Webster and Sophie Gambetta from her A grade side for the way in which they worked together.

“They had never played together prior to this season, but they stepped onto the court like they had played their whole life together,” she said.

“They set up so many defensive plays and have an ability to step up when we need to get the game back on our terms.”

Featuring in the Premier A Grade team of the year, Olivia Macente and Emily La Roche also had great seasons where they were brilliant at winning the ball and setting up plays to ensure they were an asset to any team they were in.

Across the junior squad, Lainey Bidwell had some exposure in the seniors at different points throughout the year while Holly Moulday was consistent and worked hard.

Trying to operate in a covid affected environment that was difficult to manage provided its challenges for all clubs, but the Wickers took it in their stride, banding together throughout the year to manage their way through what was a tricky situation.

“It’s been a massive challenge over the last 18 months for everyone, but I could not be prouder of our club and our girls,” Phillips beamed.

“Everyone has done a phenomenal job in staying connected and bonding well.

“Our club, the committee and president have been phenomenal in adapting to every guideline that pertains to training and match days so we know where we need to be and what we are dealing with.”

Looking into 2022, Berwick are aiming to get on the front foot early with an extensive pre-season training program designed to get more match fitness into players which will assist in its desire to move further up the ladder and play deep into finals.

Phillips wished to thank everyone involved at the Wickers for their efforts in 2021 and appreciated the work put in behind the scenes to make things tick at the club.

“I would like to say a huge well done and a thank you to our girls for their efforts as well as everyone behind the scenes like the committee, parents and everyone who has supported us throughout the year,” she said.

“It was a year that was challenging and elements of it were hard work, but I think every Berwick player should walk away from the 2021 season feeling proud of what they put in and what they got out of it too.”

NETBALL	LADDER POSITION	WINS	LOSSES	DRAWS
Kärcher Premier A Grade	5th	5	4	–
Kärcher Premier B Grade	7th	4	5	–
Kärcher Premier C Grade	6th	4	5	–
Kärcher Premier D Grade	3rd	6	3	–
Kärcher 17 & Under Blue	1st	9	0	–
Kärcher 17 & Under White	4th	3	3	–
Kärcher 15 & Under Blue	6th	1	6	–
Kärcher 15 & Under White	8th	1	7	1
Kärcher 13 & Under Blue	3rd	5	3	–
Kärcher 13 & Under White	3rd	5	4	–