Victoria’s brightest young netball stars will take to the court in Werribee this Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 October for the 2016 State Titles.
In what is one of the biggest events on the Netball Victoria calendar, the annual State Titles have long been proven as a key component of the pathway to the Melbourne Vixens.
Current Melbourne Vixens Emily Mannix, Kate Moloney, Emma Ryde and Chloe Watson all honed their skills at the competition, which is recognised as an invaluable development tool and promotes a structured pathway for players, coaches and umpires in Victoria.
Hailing from Bendigo, Watson participated at the State Titles from 2008 to 2011 for North Central. She commenced in the 15/Under age group before working her way up to the 17/Under age group.
“Coming from a country town, the State Titles were really important as it provided me with a chance to play against other girls in my age group,” the 22-year-old defender said.
Watson said the relationships she developed at an early age through the competition undoubtedly helped her transition through the pathway to ultimately become a Melbourne Vixens player.
“It was an important step,” said Watson, who joined the Vixens in 2015. “The relationships I formed with coaches and players definitely helped me through the pathway, [firstly] into the VNL, then ANL with the Fury and now with the Vixens.”
While Watson conceded it can be a “little scary”, she has some simple advice for those competing this year.
“Make sure your preparation beforehand is right, embrace the competition and have fun because the whole weekend goes so fast!”
The 2016 State Titles will take place this weekend at the state-of-the-art Eagle Stadium in Werribee, thanks to a two-year partnership with the Wyndham City Council and Western Leisure Service.
Melbourne Vixens and former State Titles participant Emily Mannix will also be in attendance between 11.30am – 12.30pm this Saturday – be sure to come and try your skills at our giant netball inflatable, and with a bevy of giveaways and 2017 Vixens memberships available for purchase, it’s a day not to be missed.
Find out more
