The Bendigo Strikers secured a license to compete in the VNL in August and, since then, have been on the hunt for the region’s brightest netball talents.
And the final squad picked to compete in the championship has finally been announced.
Rochester’s Teal Hocking will form part of the historic 11-player squad, continuing her strong association with the VNL.
A renowned Goulburn Valley League goal-shooter, Hocking is a solid pick-up for the Strikers burgeoning frontcourt.
The young gun moves to Bendigo after competing for the City West Falcons this season, one of the rising talents in the VNL after showing good form in 2023 and shining for the Falcons’ under-19 premiership-winning team in 2022.
Hocking also earned Team of the Year honours in division one this year.
Tongala’s Milly Brock, who has plenty of experience competing in the league, moves from the Ariels to also compete for the Strikers.
The Blues star, who has been a force in the Murray Netball League, is coming off a flag-winning season with Tongala.
The pair will provide significant firepower in attack for Bendigo, and head coach Tracey Brereton, who formerly coached Shepparton, said she was thrilled with the talent at her disposal.
“We have selected 11 quality athletes, quality people, all with a mindset to keep improving while achieving,” Brereton said.
“We believe this team has a great mix of experience and enthusiasm and a strong connection to our region. It is exciting to bring the team together to start training and building our team connection this side of Christmas.”
Former Moama junior and Echuca United player Bridget Furphy has also been called upon, shifting her allegiances from Geelong Cougars to the Strikers.
Selection sessions were held throughout October and the first training session was held on Wednesday, November 8, with pre-Christmas sessions running until December 9.
