It has been a year to remember for Denliquin’s Annie Harvey, with the 16-year-old playing a key role in the club’s Murray Netball League A-grade premiership.
Sitting in the middle of the court, Harvey once again proved age is just a number on Saturday afternoon, commanding the ball at Moama Recreation Reserve as her side downed Rumbalara.
Winning the Wendy Brooks Rookie of the Year award at the Murray league’s night of nights to kick off grand final week, the talent topped off a whirlwind season with a premiership medallion.
Speaking after her side had won the grand final, Harvey said it was the team’s connection that helped it over the line.
“I think we all just gelled today,” Harvey said.
“From the warm up to the final whistle we were on the same page, had the same mindset and we all just got around each other.”
Harvey acknowledged the significance of the win, not only for herself, but for the senior members of the Rams’ playing group.
“All the senior girls in our team haven’t won a grand final their whole time at Deni, so it’s definitely going to be a big celebration,” she said.
“They’ve definitely nurtured me to play the best possible netball I can play and I’ve learnt so much this year coming up from 17s, it’s been a real pleasure to play with all of them.”
At 16, Harvey was meant to play under-17s this year, however, made the jump to A-grade due to a lack of numbers.
Sure to be a key player in the team for many years to come, she said it was great to get the win.
“It means a lot,” she said.
“It’s been a long time coming and we’re all so grateful to have a good game in the rain.
“Go Deni Rams.”