Strikers enlist more Murray Netball League talent

By Josh Huntly

Nov 21, 2023

Ready and waiting: Tongala’s Grace Hammond. Photo: Aydin Payne Photo by Aydin Payne

After announcing their inaugural Victorian Netball League Championship squad, Bendigo Strikers have again looked to the Goulburn Murray region while crafting their under-23 squad, announced last week.

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With Tongala’s Milly Brock confirmed for the top squad, the under-23 list reveals she won’t be the only Blue to don the Strikers’ kit, with 2023 premiership coach Grace Hammond named a member of the Bendigo side.

Hammond, 22, spear-headed Tongala’s drought-breaking effort in the Murray Netball League this season and is one of the league’s most consistent midcourt players.

Hammond won’t be alone in earning a first VNL appointment, with under-17 Moama duo Abby Larkin and Hannah Richards also picked for Strikers duties.

Young stars: Moama duo Abby Larkin (left) and Hannah Richards have been selected in Bendigo Strikers’ under-23 VNL squad. Photo: MFNC

Both represented the Goulburn Murray Region at the Victorian state titles earlier this year and were vital cogs in the Pies’ under-17 premiership, with Richards judged best on court in the decider and Larkin claiming the league best-and-fairest.

“To have the range of quality players we have selected is thrilling,” Strikers coach Jayden Cowling said.

“This is a true regional squad with 10 clubs across five leagues represented in the 23-and-under squad.

“I am excited to work with these talented players as individuals to help them continue to improve and perform at the state level while shaping them into a cohesive team unit.”

Blues goal-shooter Milly Brock and Rochester’s Teal Hocking were announced as members of the Championship division squad earlier in November.