Yarrawonga 34 def North Albury 23

After the heartbreak of the A Grade loss, the Pigeon B Grade girls took the court determined not to let another premiership slip away.

With three players backing up from A Grade and the whole group locked in, it was always going to be a fierce contest.

The opening quarter was goal for goal, finishing 8–all.

By the second, Yarra’s defensive pressure lifted, forcing turnovers and giving the shooters the opportunity to build a six-goal lead at the half (18–12).

The third quarter was where the game broke wide open: relentless through the midcourt and clinical in attack, Yarra powered away to a 27–15 lead.

From there, they controlled the tempo, running out 34–23 winners and lifting the Premiership cup in front of a vocal crowd.

In a rarely before seen feat, three sets of sister-in-laws played together in B grade and held the premiership cup aloft in: Alisa and Kylie Leslie, Ellie and Kira Dickins and Sophie Coghill and Grace Stillard.

Highlights from each player included:

Gemma Grimmond (WA) – Having already played a full A Grade game, Gemma showed incredible grit. She fed beautifully into the circle and positioned her body smartly all match, providing a reliable link in attack.

Ellie Dickins (GS) – In the form of her life this season, Ellie capped off a stunning year. Seventeen weeks pregnant and still dominant under the post, she was calm, composed, and brilliant in goals.

Delaynee Moon (GA) – A product of the club’s junior pathway, Delaynee stood tall on the big stage. Strong in the circle and deadly accurate, her shooting was a key part of the premiership win.

Sophie Coghill (GA) – Came on in the last quarter and showed exactly why she’s one to watch. Rising up from the junior grades, Sophie is a beautiful goaler who positions herself superbly and will be a future star.

Kylie Leslie (C) – Club MVP and a warrior after already running out A Grade, Kylie didn’t miss a beat. Returning from injury this year, her leadership and relentless drive in the centre was inspirational.

Alisha Leslie (WA) – The ultimate professional. Super experienced and still gliding around the court like a gazelle. Alisha’s feeds to the goalers were first-class, and she continues to match it with players much younger.

Jaclyn “Babes” Oswald (WD) – The mother of the group. Her steadying presence and calming influence lifted everyone around her. Never gave in and never let the team down.

Annalise Grinter (GK) – Backing up from A Grade and carrying a broken finger all season, Annalise produced another trademark defensive masterclass. Her experience and premiership know-how were priceless for this group.

Grace Stillard (GD) – A rising star and one to watch, Grace has proven herself at both B and A Grade level this year. Once again brilliant in the grand fianl, her defensive pressure was outstanding.

Kira Dickins (GK) – Recruit of the year and fourth-quarter specialist. When the game was there to be finished, Kira stood tall. She never shies away from a contest and fought to the very last whistle.

Emma Sinclair (C/WA) – The heart and vibe of the team. After a tough ankle injury, Emma made a miraculous recovery to step onto the court in the last quarter — and absolutely nailed it.

Grace Eales (Bench) – big thanks to Grace who sat on the bench in full support of the team. Even without taking the court, her presence and commitment were valued by the group.

This was a true team performance, built on resilience, experience, and youthful talent. Every player contributed to a memorable premiership win — a brilliant finish to the season.

A Grade go down in tight tussle

Wodonga Raiders 49 def Yarrawonga 40.

The stage was set for yet another blockbuster between Yarrawonga and Wodonga Raiders – last year’s grand final foes.

After splitting results all season, the contest lived up to expectations in the early stages before Raiders pulled away to claim the 2025 premiership.

Yarrawonga, who have not been outside of the top three since 2007, threw everything at their opponents but ultimately fell short, 40–49.

Quarter by quarter as follows:

A pivotal moment came in the third quarter when Tilly Kennedy went down with a suspected ACL injury.

The Raiders seized the momentum from there, and despite Yarrawonga’s grit and heart, the loss of their WA was too much to overcome.

Highlights from each player included:

Bridget Cassar (GS): The heartbeat of the YFNC. In her 15th grand final appearance, Bridget once again saved her best netball for September. Her leadership and calm direction for younger players was invaluable, and her finals series was outstanding.

Maddy Allan (GA): What a recruit. A rockstar performance with smart movement, accuracy, and composure under pressure. She was instrumental in keeping Yarrawonga’s scoreboard ticking.

Tilly Kennedy (WA): The heartbreak of the day. In scintillating form before her injury, Tilly’s explosive drive and clean feeds had Raiders on the back foot. The entire club sends her love and support in recovery.

Gemma Grimmond (WA): Stepped up beautifully. Her positioning and precision around the ring gave the shooters every chance. Tough to defend, Gemma was impressive from start to finish.

Laura Irvine (C): Captain courageous. Nicknamed ‘Patty Dangerfield’ for her physical preparation and relentless attack on the ball, Laura caused numerous turnovers and drove her team forward all day. A true leader on and off the court.

Laura Davis (WD): Last year’s premiership coach showed why she’s such a force. Tenacious, disciplined, and utterly relentless until the final whistle.

Maisee Pell (GD): The rising star. Brought up mid-season from Under 17s, Maisee played a flawless first half with sensational tips, taps, and rebounds. A future cornerstone of the club.

Hannah Symes (GK): The crowd favourite with her flying red hair and fearless intercepts. Hannah was everywhere in defence, shutting down options and inspiring her teammates.

Kaleisha Pell (GA): The natural athlete was unfazed by loud Raiders chanting, she battled hard and created scoring opportunities with flair.

Annalise Grinter (GD): Courageous and uncompromising, even with a broken finger. Annalise cut off supply, rebounded strongly, and then backed up to play in the B Grade grand final – a huge effort.

Kylie Leslie (GD): A legend of the YFNC. Tasked with shutting down Vixens player Mia Lavis, Kylie’s disciplined defence was superb. Her comeback from a broken wrist earlier this year has been inspirational.

It wasn’t the fairytale ending, but this group showed incredible heart and resilience.

The Raiders may have lifted the silverware this time, but Yarrawonga’s legacy of consistency and competitiveness since 2007 remains unmatched.

With a talented blend of experienced leaders and exciting young stars, the Pigeons will regroup, rebuild, and be ready to soar again in 2026.

Yarrawonga Chronicle Google News Panels

Sunday, 31st January 2027

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