VNL: Two teams are welcomed and one is farewelled in a selection of changes set for 2024
The Victorian Netball League is bound for a raft of changes in 2024, including the addition of two teams, the farewelling of an existing club and a shake up to the competition structure. See full details.
Local Sport
Don't miss out on the headlines from Local Sport . Followed categories will be added to My News.
A raft of changes are coming to the Victorian Netball League in 2024.
The competition will expand and welcome the addition of three new clubs while an existing club will not have its license renewed.
Western Warriors, Bendigo Strikers and Gippsland Stars will enter the competition while Ariels will not be competing in the VNL next season.
In a statement released by the VNL, it said:
“With the overall strength and depth of applications, unfortunately current VNL club Ariels was unsuccessful in renewing their licence. Netball Victoria thanks Ariels for their contribution to the VNL. Netball Victoria recognises this outcome is disappointing for those involved at all levels with Ariels and is working closely with the club to manage the impact of the decision.”
The three new clubs are a part of the competition‘s growth strategy in regional Victoria.
The Stars will only field an under-23s side before entering Championship in 2027.
23&Under netball is another new aspect to the VNL next season with Division 1 being removed and Under-19s elevating to under-23s.
“We are excited to welcome three new clubs to the Victorian Netball League following a highly competitive application process,” said Netball Victoria CEO Andrea Pearman.
“The inclusion of these clubs will ensure more athletes, coaches and officials from regional Victoria and north-western Melbourne are represented in our premier competition and showcase the exceptional talent and passion for netball in those regions.”
“We thank all the applicants for their commitment to the licensing process, which was reflected in the high quality of applications received and which gives us great confidence in the passion and capability of our Victorian netball community.”
Watch replay: Sydney pull of huge Talent League comeback to pip Rebels
The GWV Rebels and Sydney Swans battled it out in an all-time Coates Talent League classic that ended with the Swans pulling off a final quarter comeback. Watch the REPLAY here.
The huge population shifts blowing up Melbourne’s footy heartlands
Massive demographic changes in Melbourne’s suburbs are threatening the survival of traditional footy powerhouses and now the race is on to attract the next generation of young players.