Sport
16 April, 2026
NETBALL: Close calls on court for Navies
All the action from the netball games between St Arnaud and Charlton.
THE Charlton 14 and Under B netball team was extremely appreciative to have St Arnaud girls willing to play.
The side was a lot smaller in stature than the opposition, however, each player gave it a really good crack and listened well to what the combined team of coaches, Claudia, Kim and Johanna, had to offer.
Charlton’s Lila and Jazmin, just out of NetSetGo, experienced playing a number of positions, both in the mid-court and defence.
Their ability to track their opponent in defence was very impressive.
Bendigo Bank Best: Halley Huggins (Day Permit) from St Arnaud
FHN Ladies Auxiliary Coaches: Lila Lanyon
NWAG and Rex Theatre “Have a Crack”: Bridgett Culliver (DP) St A
14 and Under A
St Arnaud 22 def Charlton 4
THE Charlton 14 and Under A team was topped up with a couple of St Arnaud girls, allowing for a fairer contest.
While Charlton were able to gain intercepts from the defence early, they struggled to bring the ball down the court.
A number of changes to the starting line up saw players matching it with their opposition and finding a way to goal.
While the Navies didn’t always convert, all players were able to successfully employ the three main training foci in the game situation, so this was an extremely positive start to the season.
Bendigo Bank Best: Sophie Roberts
FHN Ladies Auxiliary Coaches: Maddie Lanyon
Nutrien Ag and Caffeinated Chaos “Have a Crack”: Layla Culliver (DP) St Arnaud
17 and Under A
Charlton 24 def by St Arnaud 41
CHARLTON attackers worked well with some different combinations.
They showed some really strong connections and flow throughout the game.
The defenders put in a solid effort and applied consistent pressure to slow a tough opposition.
Overall, a great first game from the girls.
They showed some really positive pieces of play and it was fantastic to see some new faces in the Navies dresses.
North Central Smash Repairs Best: Layla Burn
FNH Ladies Auxiliary Coaches: Arleea Sarre
Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Anna Fitzpatrick
C Grade
Charlton 52 def St Arnaud 37
A SOLID start to the season for our C Grade side on Saturday.
The team eased into the game well, building steadily across each quarter.
St Arnaud came out strong early, with Charlton holding a narrow four-goal lead at the first break.
From there, Charlton lifted in the second quarter, improving their ball movement and connection through the midcourt into the attacking end.
The second half provided a great opportunity to trial different rotations, while the defensive unit continued to apply consistent pressure and work tirelessly throughout the game.
Standout performances included Lily Campbell, who controlled the centre position with strong communication, effective change of pace, and well-timed feeds. Sarah
Blair impressed in the goal circle, combining seamlessly with different attacking partners.
In defence, Holly Thompson and Maggie Riley formed a strong new combination, shutting down many of St Arnaud’s attacking opportunities with excellent pressure and teamwork.
Overall, a very encouraging start to the season, and we look forward to seeing how this group continues to develop in the coming rounds.
Ergo and Mane Best: Lily Campbell
Ergo and Mane Coaches: Sarah Blair
Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Ellie O’Connor
B Grade
Charlton 62 def St Arnaud 36
ANOTHER strong performance saw B Grade get their season off to a great start.
The team began with intensity and continued to build momentum each quarter.
A new-look shooting combination rotated through the goal circle, with transitions down the court flowing smoothly and effectively.
Defensively, the team’s height and ability to read the play put significant pressure on St Arnaud, forcing them to work hard for every scoring opportunity.
The midcourt rotations allowed for fresh legs throughout the game, and newcomer Ash Bowen integrated seamlessly into the group.
By halftime, Charlton had established a 13-goal lead, creating the opportunity to trial different combinations, all of which performed well.
The versatility across the team is a real strength and will be exciting to watch as the season progresses.
Standout performances included Claudia Lee, who played well in the mid court and also fed and shot strongly with newcomer Yasmine Thompson who showed great promise in the goal circle only dropping four goals for the game.
Ash Bowen made an impressive debut, demonstrating excellent game awareness and reading of the play.
The team’s overall defensive pressure and ability to adapt to changes while maintaining composure were particularly pleasing.
A great team effort and a positive start to what looks to be a competitive season ahead.
Teys Charlton Feedlot Best: Claudia Lee
Teys Charlton Feedlot Coaches: Ash Bowen
Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Claire Smith
A Grade - NO GAME
Cricket Club Hotel and JS Plumbing Volunteer of the Day: Bec Sexton
Read More: Charlton