A fast-starting Shepparton Swans ended its season on a high on Sunday morning, downing Echuca to take home the Goulburn Valley League’s 15-and-under title.
The 42-22 victory was a convincing one for the Swans, with the red and white side leading from start to finish at Deakin Reserve to pick up the win.
Scoring the first goal of the game, the Swans’ quick ball movement, pressure and hunger held them in good stead early.
Leading 11-4 at quarter-time, the girls from Princess Park were up and about, with a goal-filled second quarter seeing the team’s lead extended to 12 at the main break.
In the third term the Murray-Bombers began to etch their way back into the contest, however the sharp shooting of best-on-court medallist Jaylah Meda and the mid-court drive of duo Remi Bruton and Zara Cuzens had the Swans enter the last change leading 30-17.
As the game drew closer to a close it was clear the Shepparton side was going to run out winners, with a gallant effort from Echuca ensuring the Murray-Bombers headed home with their heads held high.
Speaking after the contest, Swans’ coaching duo Sue Egan and Amy Woodman said they were proud of their side.
“We’re a bit lost for words,” Woodman said.
“They just trained really hard all year and to see them just get there in the end we’re just so proud of them.”
Egan outlined pressure as one reason the Swans got over the line, with the strong defensive efforts of Emily Younger and Gabby Moore assisted by their teammates.
“They all got on the court and they all knew their role,” Egan said.
“They’ve done a wonderful job really.”
Dropping off in the middle of the game, both coaches were happy with how their side picked themselves back up to round out the win.
“It takes a team to win, it’s everyone,” Egan said.
Ending the home-and-away season with zero defeats, Sunday’s result caps off a remarkable year for the Swans.
With plenty of talent coming through the ranks, the club is sure to be a force to be reckoned with on the netball courts for many years to come.