Currently in the midst of its senior and mixed netball competitions on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, the association is moving full steam ahead towards the return of its Saturday competition on April 24.
Coming off the back of a barren 12 months of no netball, EDNA president Betty McCoomb said the ability to play the game again this year had been welcomed by all.
“Everyone’s been enjoying it after the year off, everyone just wants to play,” McCoomb said.
“Our representative teams have been training from the beginning of February, so it’s great to see them out there. Quite a few were selected last year but didn’t get to do anything.
“To get back out there, everyone is really excited. The courts had been very quiet.”
The returning Saturday morning competition will cater towards primary-aged children, with a combination of skill sessions and game scenarios offered.
Then, Year 7 and above players will hit the courts in the afternoon for their own competitive games.
And as players get re-accustomed to the rigours of sport, McCoomb said the association would continue to set a strong base within its players who want to rise up the ranks into football and netball clubs.
“Those clubs gain players from our pathways once they get to that under-15 age, but they get the grounding they need here. We’ve got a really good relationship with those local clubs,” McCoomb said.
“And our representative players, they are able to play at those clubs and come back here to do their commitments here. It’s just about helping everyone grow.”
However, one of the biggest issues facing the association continues to be the recruitment of umpires, with more experienced or badged umpires greatly needed.
“I think it’s like everywhere, we’re desperate for umpires,” McCoomb said.
“We have some regulars, but not enough spares if they need a night off.
“And we have a lot of our junior players wanting to learn and get involved but we can’t use them yet, they can only do lower levels.”
For more information on playing, umpiring or getting involved in Echuca District Netball Association at any level, phone the EDNA office on 5480 1725 or email edna1@iinet.net.au.
To register for the Saturday competition, head to edna.org.au.
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