Last weekend Gunnedah Netball Association (GNA) fielded two representative teams at the Samsung NSW Netball State Championships in Newcastle.

The 21 years and under side made club history as the first to play in a championship division for Gunnedah. 

The team went into the championships knowing they would have it tough against big sides from Penrith, Newcastle and Bathurst. But their goal for the weekend was to improve each game which they did. 

Coach Jackie Small was proud of the effort all players displayed especially when by day three, due to illness, a number of players were forced to play out of position.

The 17 years and under team had a late player withdrawal and went into the division three championships with a squad of nine. 

Over three days the young side played 23 games and finished with 11 wins one draw and 11 losses. 

Coach Greg Jaeger was proud of the team’s performance. They placed midfield (12th) in their division. 

GNA thanked all players and team officials for being great ambassadors for Gunnedah netball and also family members who travelled to Newcastle to support the teams. 

This year GNA had to source umpires from other associations. Thanks went to Laura Cambridge (Armidale) Jacqui Osborne (Eastwood/Ryde) and Katelyn Parker (Campbelltown). Without the support of these associations, GNA would not have been able to participate at the championships.

This Sunday will see a hive of activity at the local netball courts with the annual all-age carnival where more than 30 teams will participate across four age divisions. All Gunnedah teams participating will be allocated barbecue and canteen duties during the day. Other teams are to feature in the carnival include Moree, Tamworth, Narrabri, Dunedoo, Muswellbrook, Coonabarabran, Inverell and Glen Innes among others.

Gunnedah’s 15 years side hope to continue its success from Narrabri’s all-age carnival where it was undefeated.

This Saturday, the Open division will play the round washed out on June 4. Umpiring duties for all teams are the same as last playing round. See page 24 for this week’s draw.