Fairytales really do exist.

For the first time in 20 years, a senior All Blacks netball side not only reached a grand final, but claimed the ultimate prize, with the B Reserve Panthers securing a hard-fought four-goal victory over Bonnie Doon in Saturday’s premiership decider.

The journey was anything but easy. Finishing fifth on the ladder meant the Panthers faced a long and gruelling finals campaign, but each week they rose with determination and unity.

Their round 11 clash with Bonnie Doon, where they suffered a 20-goal defeat, proved a defining moment.

From that day forward, the Panthers never lost another game, stringing together an incredible 13 straight wins that carried them all the way to premiership glory.

The grand final itself was a nail-biter from start to finish. The Panthers started strongly, leading 9-5 at quarter time. By half-time, they had built a five-goal buffer, and extended it to six at the final break.

Bonnie Doon threw everything at them in the last quarter, finding a second wind and mounting a fierce fightback. But the Panthers, roared on by their phenomenal supporters, held their nerve to seal a 37-33 victory and etch their names into club history.

The premiership squad of Bri McNair, Brooke Bradshaw, Bec Mathieson, Catherine Dennis, Chloe Dods, Taitum Hemming, Kristy Hanrahan, Joey Gall, and under-17 stars Eleanor Renkin and Keira Brown, guided by playing coach Renae Hughes and team manager Shane Hughes, delivered a finals campaign that will be remembered for years to come.

On a day of physical, hot, and fast-paced netball, every player contributed, but it was defensive powerhouse Taitum Hemming who stole the show.

Her fierce defence, brilliant attack, and inspirational leadership earned her the well-deserved Best on Court honours. A legend of the Panthers, Hemming is the opposition’s nightmare and every teammate’s dream.

What made the victory even more special was the army of black-and-white supporters who turned out in force. From families to lifelong fans, and especially the footballers who back the girls with unmatched passion each week, the love and spirit shown is second to none.

It’s this atmosphere of inclusiveness, equity, and unwavering support that defines the All Blacks - a club where everyone feels they belong.

As Coach Hughes summed up in the rooms afterwards: “I absolutely love this club” – though, she admits with a grin, the language may have been a touch stronger in the heat of the moment.

Final Score: All Blacks 37 def Bonnie Doon 33

UNDER 15s - RUNNERS UP

On Saturday, September 13, the Benalla All Blacks FNC’s youngest team travelled to W.J. Finlay Oval in Wangaratta for their first-ever grand final appearance.

Up against the undefeated Bonnie Doon, the girls knew they were facing a tough challenge. From the first whistle, the Panthers worked hard, applying relentless pressure and combining well as a team.

In defence, Imogen English and Libby Renkin were tireless, turning over play and helping transition the ball down the court. Emma Manning, Charli Levy and Tarni White were great options moving the ball and allowing mid court players Darcie Jackson and Sharni Hughes to deliver composed and accurate feeds into the attacking circle.

Shooters Lola Crook and Harper Robertson stood tall under pressure, finishing confidently when given the opportunity.

Despite the team’s efforts, Bonnie Doon’s strength and experience ultimately proved the difference, with the final score reading Bonnie Doon 57 - Benalla 29. Although the result was not the ending the girls had hoped for, the Panthers should be immensely proud of their performance and the success of their season.

Their teamwork, determination, and improvement across the year have been a true credit to the club. The Panthers may not have taken home the trophy, but their grand final appearance marks a season of growth, teamwork and achievement they can be proud of.

“We may not have won the cup today, but as a club we have won so much more this season,” coach Jemma Smith reflected after the match.

“To have such incredible support from our members is amazing, and I could not be prouder of my team and to be part of the Benalla All Blacks Football Netball Club family.”

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Thursday, 28th September 2023

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