Sport
2 April, 2026
Depth the key as Hawks target premiership
Talbot’s A-Grade netballers are setting their sights on a premiership in 2026, with improved depth identified as the key to going one step further in the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League.
The Hawks reached last year’s grand final, their first since their 1994 premiership, and pushed Avoca all the way before falling by 17 points. Now, they are determined to build on that breakthrough season.
Coach Eleisha Phelps returns for 2026 and said the group has hit the ground running with a strong pre-season.
“We have had really good numbers, and it’s been highly competitive for A-Grade. Across the board, our teams are looking strong,” she said.
Talbot has also strengthened its lineup with some key inclusions. Portia Hughes joins the club from Clunes and is expected to add strength through the midcourt, while Maddy Williams arrives from Learmonth after being a standout in their B-Grade side. Williams will step up to A-Grade with the Hawks this season.
Phelps believes the added depth will be crucial over the course of the year.
“We’ve retained most of last year’s side, but now we’ve also got a strong senior group with plenty of depth,” she said.
“Some of our B-Grade players are capable of stepping into A-Grade, and across a long season anything can happen, so that depth is really important.
“We’re also looking to give some of our juniors opportunities in senior sides as part of their development. Getting a feel for senior netball will be really beneficial for them.”
Among those impressing early is Loren Aquilina, who Phelps expects to play a major role again.
“Loren is as fit as ever,” she said. “She’ll be key through the centre and can also provide backup in goals.
“She was dominant last year, and we’re expecting more of the same this season.”
Looking ahead, Phelps said improving consistency and composure will be vital if the Hawks are to take the next step.
“We need to be more composed this season,” she said.
“We want to be smarter with the ball, focus on our basic skills, create turnovers and convert them.
“That ties into fitness as well. With the depth we’ve built and the strength of our senior group, we’re hopeful we can go all the way and take home the premiership.”