PREMIUM
Sport

Under 17 Hopperettes claim premiership

Rennie Hoppers Under 17s netball premiers. Photo by Les_Garbutt

Rennie 47 def Tungamah 35

Tungamah came out with something to prove, all guns blazing they scored the first 4 goals.

Rennie soon settled and it was on, goal for goal before a few turnovers allowed Rennie to take the lead.

The goalies converting goals left, right and centre - they meant business!

Lucy Bassett moves the ball clear of the defensive third. Photo by Les_Garbutt

The mid court run ragged with heat making it a tough slog. The defenders made sure to put the pressure on, but Tunga weren’t going down without a fight!

The defensive pressure down the whole court saw the Hoppers turn a few more balls over - coming away with a hefty lead in the last.

A hard-fought battle from both teams, with no one leaving anything in their tank.

It definitely was the game to watch.

Mabel Cope looks to her GA in the goal circle. Photo by Les_Garbutt

Co-coaches Tegan Lee and Ebony Williams spoke candidly about the tension of the occasion.

“Look, the girls came out fighting. They wanted it, I think they gave it everything they had. It definitely was tight,” Lee said.

“Tungamah definitely wanted it as well, they made us work for it but in the end the girls kept their heads level and came out with the end,” Williams said.

However, the fourth quarter was when the shots truly dropped for Rennie, with lovely lobbed feeds clunked and dispatched by Coghill and co in the offensive arc.

Coghill was bestowed best on court honours, but with a full-faceted Hoppers’ display launching Rennie to a fabled three-peat, Lee highlighted the importance of her team’s focused mindset and grand final experience.

Demi Rhodes keeps her eye on the ball in the cross-town showdown. Photo by Les_Garbutt

“I definitely think (playing in grand finals before) helped them keep level headed,” she said.

“They’re used to the crowd, they’re used to the loudness and I think it helped. We were a nervous wreck being our first year coaching.

“It was definitely a lot of pressure to live up to bring it home for a third year, but the girls held their own.”

The girls really worked together, showcasing what teamwork really is.

Best on court Sophie Coghill. Photo by Les_Garbutt

The Hoppers want to congratulate Tunga on their season and thank all the supporters for getting around the Hoppers.

Just a small shout out to the Rennie 17s; you did it!

Hoppers host successful grand final

Rennie Football Netball Club had the privilege of hosting the 2024 PDFNL Grand Final which saw a record number of spectators pass through the gates, reflecting the high level of excitement surrounding the games.

The vibrant atmosphere was enhanced by the beautiful weather, creating optimal conditions for football and netball. Fans from across the league gathered to support their teams and enjoy a day of top-tier competition.

Nine different clubs from the PDFNL were in contention for the ultimate glory of premiership titles with this large number of clubs involved highlighting the leagues talent and high standards of competition.

The day saw great success for many clubs. Deni Rovers had a great day out at the netball taking home four flags, with their A grade going back-to-back.

Katandra caused quite the upset in both the netball and football. Edging over the undefeated Deni Rovers in C Reserve and Tocumwal in the Thirds.

Katunga C Grade showcased their strength finishing off the season undefeated.

Tungamah had a great day in the football, with their fourths and reserves taking home spectacular wins. Waaia proved too strong for Katandra in the Seniors, taking home the top prize and solidifying why they are the best in the league.

Lastly Rennie’s very own Under 17s netballers showcased an outstanding performance throughout the season, finishing undefeated.

Their home ground advantage proved advantageous as they secured the premiership over cross town rivals; Tungamah.

As a club Rennie are incredibly proud of this group. Their hard work and dedication to netball has been fantastic and very deserving to be rewarded with a premiership.

The success of the 2024 PDFNL Grand Final was the result of the collective effort of many individuals and local businesses in the area.

The Rennie Football Netball Club extends its heartfelt thanks to the volunteers, sponsors, and local businesses whose support was invaluable.

A huge thank you also goes to the PDFNL for their collaboration and for allowing Rennie to host this years Grand Final.