The maroon and gold’s talent production line has produced a host of fresh insurgents at A Grade in 2026, highlighting the strength of the club's junior pathway and providing plenty of optimism for the years ahead.
Leading the next generation is Goulburn Valley League Rising Star nominee Scarlet Byers, who has quickly adapted to the demands of A Grade after helping steer the Bears' 17-and-Under side to last year's premiership.
The talented teenager has made five A Grade appearances this season and is sharing the experience alongside older sister Lily Byers, giving the Bears another exciting family connection at the top level.
Scarlet has also continued to captain an unbeaten 17-and-under outfit, which has been winning by an average of more than 20 goals a game, while her performances have also earned Goulburn Valley League representative honours.
“The future of Shepparton Bears netball is arriving faster than anyone expected, and Scarlet Byers is right at the heart of it,” the GVL wrote of her spectacular rise.
“The talented teenager becomes the sixth nominee in the 2026 Goulburn Valley League Rising Star series after making an impressive transition from the Bears' dominant 17&Under side into A Grade this season.”
Her emergence is part of a broader youth movement at Deakin Reserve, where several junior products are being handed opportunities to test themselves against the competition's best.
Another product of the Bears' junior system continuing to make her mark is Bella Gale, who celebrated her 100th club game over the weekend.
Gale's milestone is another example of the club's commitment to developing home-grown talent from the junior ranks through to senior netball.
Having progressed through the Bears' junior grades before earning her place in B Grade, Gale has become a valued member of the club both on and off the court.
Alongside fellow starlets Ava Ahmat, Frankie Ewart and Matilda Ewert, the teenager made her A Grade bow in the past month as the Bears’ next generation continues to blossom on the court.
Those four youngsters appeared for the seniors alongside the aforementioned Scarlet Byers against Seymour in round 12 in a landmark day for the club.
A Bears representative praised Gale’s dedication and character while reflecting on her recent century of club appearances.
“Bella is a quiet achiever whose impact speaks loudly, she has consistently shown what it means to be a hardworking and passionate netballer,” they said.
“As a player, Bella is dependable, relentless and fearless. She is a smart, agile defender whose ability to read the play makes her a standout defender.
"She is always determined to improve and has a team-first attitude which makes her such a valued team member.
“Bella's impact goes well beyond her netball ability. Her quiet confidence, cheeky humour and natural spark bring positivity to everyone around her.
“It has been a pleasure watching Bella begin to thrive in senior netball and we cannot wait to see her play many more games in the maroon and gold."
With a bright crop of emerging talents already making an impact at A Grade level, and experienced mentors such as coach Borger helping shape the next generation, the Bears appear well placed to remain competitive for years to come.
Next up, Shepparton faces Mooroopna in round 13 of the GVL at A Grade level, with the Bears looking to build on last week’s win over neighbours Shepparton United.
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