The coach of the premiership-winning 17-and-under side last year, Leesa Hooppell, has taken on the A-grade program for the new Murray Netball League season after incumbent coach Krystal Burns was unable to continue in the role.
“I've probably coached a lot more A-grade than junior to be honest throughout my coaching, so it wasn't a new thing for me,” Hooppell said.
“I felt that I could bring something to the group, so I put my hand up.
“Being good friends with Krystal, I knew she for family reasons had to move away so it was easier for me taking the (side).
“Knowing that there were going to be a few 17s playing in A-grade, it was a no-brainer to take them both on.”
The likes of last year’s 17-and-under league best-and-fairest Coby Morgan and Rookie of the Year Diaz Agg were already established in the A-grade side last year and will be among a youthful squad for the Eagles.
“We've got seven players under the age of 18, so it will be by far the youngest side I've ever coached in A-grade in any league,” Hooppell said.
“I'm looking forward to the challenge, we've got a bit of work to do, but excited to see what the young kids can bring.”
The side grew under Burns’ tenure last year, improving from two wins and two draws in 2024 to post six victories and a draw in 2025.
Hooppell is hoping to build on that tally, but recognises there will be challenges working with such a young line-up.
“Any team’s aiming for finals (but) I know where we’re at as a team with so many young kids it’s going to be hard leadership wise and just trying to keep the morale up.
“There’s no reason why we can’t win as many games as we did last year and, hopefully, even add to that.
“That’s the main aim, we need to be building and going in the right direction.”
The Eagles will come up against a quality Rams side, a permanent fixture in the finals over the past several seasons.
United fell by five goals to the same opposition in the final game of last season, with Saturday’s contest to test how far both sides have come since that day.
“Deni are always a beautiful strong side,” Hooppell said.
“They have always been a good country netball club that have great players and connection on the court, so looking forward to the challenge.
“I think they’re probably on par with us with recruitment and everything else, but they’ll have some older heads on the court that we’ll have to try and see if we can get over the top.”
Echuca United battles Deniliquin in the Murray league season opener on Saturday at Echuca South Recreation Reserve, with A-grade on court from 1.30pm.
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