A sea of maroon and gold descended on the Katunga netball courts on Saturday, with Tungamah’s four senior netball sides playing for a shot at Picola District Netball League premiership glory.
Taking to the stage in the C-reserve decider, the Bears got the good times rolling for their club, securing the first of Tungamah’s four netball wins with an exhilarating 24-22 triumph over Katunga.
After a troubling start to the season, Bears’ C-reserve playing coach Sally Eales said her side had shown immense determination during the final and throughout the year to get to where it is.
“It was such a strong game, which a grand final really should be,” Eales said.
“Katunga are always brilliant opponents to play and we knew we’d have to be playing at our absolute best to be in the contest today.
“My girls started the season in 0-3, we finished fifth and we’ve won our four finals.
“I’m just so proud of this team — the girls hadn’t really played together before this year and they’ve come together as a team so beautifully.”
Eales said a fantastic off-court culture had really contributed to the side’s growing team unity this year.
“We’re very positive off the court and very positive on the court,” she said.
“We train in the rain, the group chat is always lit up, these girls have been so invested in this team.
“And the game came down to two goals in the end, that’s one bad pass in 48 minutes of netball, the girls knew they had to keep going right until the end.”
Tungamah’s Amber Peachy came away with an MVP medal, helping her side to a win which Eales said perfectly encapsulated the terrific year it’s enjoyed.
“I was absolutely thrilled for Amber Peachey to be named best-on, she gives everything every week, they all do, and they all had their moments,” Eales said.
“My co-coach Bridget Saunders did her knee last year and would’ve been on the court with us today.
“We had two girls that didn’t get on, they played all year and the support from them was awesome, I’m just a very proud coach.”