The Victorian First Nations state team has wrapped up the annual First Nations tournament with a fourth-place finish.
In its second year, the national event was held at Frankston’s Jubilee Park and brought together First Nations athletes under the age of 23 from every state and territory for five days of competition.
The Victorian side opened their 2025 campaign with a win over the ACT (35-34), followed by a loss to the eventual silver medallists, Queensland (25-47). Day two saw similarly mixed results with a loss to New South Wales (32-48) who would go on to claim the gold medal, and a win over Western Australia (45-42).
Day three was a challenge, coming up against Tasmania who took the win (26-34).
The final day of the regular competition was a success for the home state side who managed two wins – one over South Australia (28-27) and the other over Northern Territory (39-26).
On the final day of competition, the Victorian team came up against Tasmania in the bronze medal match. The Vics held on for majority of the game, but slipped away in the final quarter, missing the podium finish (25-35).
Lee Bevan-Woodley stepped into the assistant coach role this year, after acting as a ‘big sister’ and wellbeing mentor role in last year’s program.
On the performance across the tournament, Bevan-Woodley said:
“We learned early on that everyone and every team had really elevated their programs in the last 12 months, and that’s really exciting from both a coaching perspective but also as a spectator that everyone has put time into their teams and selections.
“Performance-wise, we were able to really stick to our structures and what we’ve said throughout the week is ‘Netball Vic’s way’ – we play a one-on-one defence, we drive to the ball fast, and we’re going to always hit our targets in the shooting area because that’s just what’s embedded in our Netball Victoria pathway.
“I think in times where the pressure is high and everyone’s really focussed on their individual performance, you’ve got to just remember to reiterate those basics and reiterate why we’re here.”
Holly Stephens (124 goals, 86%) shone in goals, working well with Jemiah Niki (68 goals, 85%) whose body positioning opened up opportunities in the circle. Brigitte DeMamiel (40 goals, 75%) played a role at both ends of the court, rotating between GS and GK.
Chloe Eyre (23 goals, 68%) showed how dynamic she is, stepping up at GA, WA and C.
Captain Anna Solomon was a leader on and off the court, flying for balls and working hard in defence with Ashlee Hyde whose height and leap proved beneficial for the Vics.
The engine room of the midcourt worked tirelessly. Olivia Spence, Mia Williams and Emlyn Turriff controlled play down the court, taking care of the ball to convert any turnovers. Elisa Butterworth-Gonebale starred, until an awkward movement forced her out of the tournament with a suspected Achilles injury. She was replaced by 16-year-old squad member Manon Muir who rose to the occasion of being brought into the tournament halfway through the rounds.
Speaking on her experience, Muir said:
“It’s been a good opportunity to play with different players.
“There are a lot of leaders in the group and that’s really inspiring.
“I think this tournament being included in the netball calendar is really important. It shows that netball is more than a sport, it’s a celebration of culture and everyone coming together to play.”
On the significance of the tournament, Bevan-Woodley said:
“What’s really key for this tournament and this format is that it’s all about culture, connection and community.
“I hope people are seeing this tournament, and we’re getting more and more people to come and trial next year. I know there are a lot of young girls out there that might not think they’re ready, but I think at least give it a try – showing up and having exposure to the environment will be something that’s really beneficial.”
The Victorian First Nations state team was proudly supported by Netball Victoria's inclusion partner, RACV.
Those interested in trialling for next year’s tournament can keep an eye on the First Nations tournament section of Netball Victoria’s website, or email pathways@netballvic.com.au.
