It seems the Bupa VNL 2019 season was the year for the Geelong Cougars, as they were undoubtedly the most successful club across the competition. With all three teams making it to the finals, the Championship side took it one step further to claim the premiership title after a heartbreaking grand final loss in 2018.
While Division One lost to Boroondara Express by just one goal in the preliminary final and the 19/U’s suffered an 18-goal loss to City West Falcons, the Cougars army united for the Championship side in their final clash and filled the stadium with blue and white.
They will head into the 2020 season as the club to beat and will be feared come round 1. The retention of players has always been a trend for the Cougars, yet this year almost mirrors last year’s squads with only two additions in Elyse Boyer and former Cougar, Laura Cayzer.
The club’s strength is highlighted by their player progression as Championship player Mel Bragg has been elevated to Suncorp Super Netball’s Collingwood Magpies squad alongside star-shooter Julia Woolley. Tayla Honey has once again been contracted by the Melbourne Vixens and Allie Smith will continue as a Vixens and Victorian Fury squad member. Tori Honner, Ruby Horton, Bridgette Furphy and Georgie Cuthbertson have also been commended on their 2019 seasons, stepping up to the Fury squad which will be finalised in weeks to come.
19/U’s 2019 MVP, Ellen Doyle has been rewarded for her standout year with selection in the open squad. Cougars Coordinator, Lisa McFarlane is extremely proud of Ellen’s efforts and her development over the past twelve months.
“Congratulations to Ellen Doyle who is also currently in Scotland for an exciting opportunity to play for the Strathclyde Sirens Suncorp Team,” McFarlane said.
“Ellen will be trying out for the Scotland Under 21 team whilst over there and if selected will have the opportunity to represent Scotland at the World Youth Cup in Fiji.”
“Ellen is a versatile player who is an integral part of the team with the ability to play at both ends of the court, so we’re excited to see what she can bring to the open sides this season.”
Gerard Murphy and Mel Savage return for another year as Championship and Division One head coaches, after over 100 games for the Cougars and will be assisted by Kim Bailey and Katie Williams. Cougars veteran, Kaitlyn Sheringham (200+ games) will also continue her domination again in 2020.
The Cougars welcome nine new players to the 19/U side hoping to hit the podium this year. The new-look side boasts regional players from Ballarat, Colac, Warrnambool and Geelong. With seven players on the list from Ballarat, the Cougars will host a home game at Wendouree Sports Stadium to support the local players. Poppy Douglass and Zara Walters have been acknowledged for their successful 2019 seasons, being selected to represent Victoria in the 17/U state team. While, three new training partners have jumped on board after standout seasons playing for their school and local club.
After leaving the State Netball and Hockey Centre disappointed after the grand final, the 19/U’s have been busy in the offseason and have welcomed Damian Stephenson to the club as the new head coach.
“Damo brings a wealth of experience, coaching A grade for AFL Barwon’s Modewarre and also as an APS coach for Geelong College. He is looking forward to the opportunity to coach at VNL level under the mentorship of Gerard and Mel.”
The Geelong Cougars will look to maintain their impressive form in round 1 of the Bupa VNL when they take on the North East Blaze on Saturday 28 March.
