Although many of the players have changed, the result has remained the same for Tongala’s C-grade side, as it seeks back-to-back undefeated championships on Saturday.

One of three dominant Tongala sides in the Murray League, this year’s C-grade side has swept aside all comers on the way to the grand final, not only boasting a 18-0 regular season record, but an eye-watering percentage of 228.42.

Co-coach Tracey Hughes returned to the helm this year, alongside new coaching partner Karlie Cox.

“Achievements like this don’t happen without a strong group of players across the board; we are very fortunate at Tonny,” Cox said.

“In saying that, these achievements don’t just fall into our lap.

“We have had to work hard, and we continue to do so coming into Saturday.

“We believe we have the perfect mix of youth, experience, fun and skill, and it’s a perfect balance that has been the driving force behind our success.”

The new coaching pair has worked well together to keep the squad firing, despite only retaining four players from last year’s championship outfit.

“Tracey is an experienced player and coach, she is organised, and I have learnt so much from her along the way,” Cox said.

“I like to think of myself as her right hand, helping with the decision-making, training and general reminders.

“Two heads are better than one when we both have busy work and family lives outside of netball, so it’s nice to have each other’s back.

“Together we have been able to get the best out of the group and have had an enjoyable year.”

Tongala’s opponent on grand final day will be Congupna, after it edged out Echuca United by two goals in the preliminary final.

The Road have been the big improvers in the competition this season, advancing from an even record last season, to 15-3 this campaign.

The Blues won strongly, 64-34, in the qualifying final.

“We have played Congupna three times now, twice just in the last month, so we feel we know what to expect, and we are prepared for it,” Cox said.

“They have a tall goal shooter who loves the hold, but our defenders have worked hard to shut this down, and they have a young, speedy midcourt, which we know we can definitely match.

“Our full-court pressure means we are able to create multiple opportunities through turnovers, and thanks to our amazing goaling end, we are able to punish opposition when this happens.

“We think our experience and skill have put us in good stead to get us over the line on Saturday.”

The C-grade final is scheduled for 11am on Saturday at Moama Recreation Reserve

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Thursday, 27th October 2022

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