‘‘The interest and calibre of players who tried out was exceptional, and we are so proud to put forward teams in unders 11s, 13s, 15s and 17s,’’ she said.
‘‘In addition we have also been able to take a reserves team for under 15s.
‘‘With more than 80 girls trying out, it was an enormous undertaking to coordinate the try outs.
‘‘I would like to thank our selection panel members, coordinators, coaches, umpires, parent helpers and our committee.
‘‘We could not have pulled it off without everyone’s help, cooperation, and patience. We were even washed out the first night of try outs.’’
Trying out for the teams were not only netballers from Deniliquin, but from surrounding communities.
It has resulted in a number of new faces joining DNA.
Rep team training will begin in the new year, with the first competition scheduled for early April.
‘‘While there were a few who we were unable to place in a team, it is important to remember we will have our regular competition in 2022 to look forward to,’’ DNA president Angela Hussey said.
‘‘’’With many exciting changes in the pipeline, we expect to attract more players and raise the bar of the competition.’’
DNA is moving away from a winter competition, instead holding a twilight competition in March.
‘‘We toyed with the idea of a summer comp starting in February, however there were concerns regarding the heat and timing with other clubs being able to participate as part of their pre-season,’’ Hussey said.
‘‘The change has been largely driven through our acknowledgement that over the years our traditional winter competition has dwindled in numbers, and therefore so did the depth of competition.
‘‘It’s time we looked at alternative ways to rebuild our competition to strengthen our reputation as a legitimate option.
‘‘We know many players miss out through club and representative try outs across our region. It is a shame to see them eventually walk away from the sport because they see no alternative.
‘‘We want people to consider DNA as their first option and not just the alternative.”
The DNA Autumn Twilight Comp will commence with round one on Wednesday, March 2.
Registrations will be open from February 7.
Further details will be posted on the DNA Facebook page throughout January and February.
DNA is also finalising sponsorship partnerships for 2022.
‘‘If there are individuals or businesses who would like to support DNA, please get in touch with me on 0412 299 721,’’ DNA sponsorship coordinator Marie Muldoon said.
For information about the Autumn Twilight Competition, contact the president on 0427 815 863.
