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Schoolgirl netball rivals Downlands and St Ursula’s ready to clash in annual Merici-Chevalier Cup

We’ve profiled every Downlands and St Ursula’s junior and senior set to line up in this week’s Merici-Chevalier Cup. Find out how your favourite star netballer will contribute here.

St Ursula's Senior A team lift the Merici-Chevalier Cup after defeating Downlands First VII last year. Picture: Kevin Farmer
St Ursula's Senior A team lift the Merici-Chevalier Cup after defeating Downlands First VII last year. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Another chapter in one of Toowoomba’s biggest sporting rivalries will be written this Friday when St Ursula’s College goes head-to-head with Downlands College in the annual Merici-Chevalier Cup.

Ahead of the massive schoolgirls netball showdown we’ve profiled every player in the First and Second VII squads as well the Junior A, B and C teams.

First VII

Mikayla O’Neill (GA/GS)

St Ursula’s

The team co-captain is a highly talented shooter with exceptional netball IQ and strategic insight who continues to make her mark as a rising star in the game. Recognised in 2025 through her selection to represent as part of the Darling Downs Panthers.

Darcie Gillis (GD/GK)

St Ursula’s

Through relentless pressure on opposition shooters the co-captain plays a crucial role in forcing turnovers and is instrumental in transitioning the ball smoothly out of defence. Recognised in 2025 through her selection to represent as part of the Darling Downs Panthers.

Rose Coren (WA)

St Ursula’s

A quiet performer whose speed and agility create space on the court. Her passing skills around the circle edge set up scoring opportunities.

Jorja Bubb (WA/C/WD)

St Ursula’s

An adaptable midcourt player whose flexibility allows her to transition effortlessly between roles, always maintaining composure and contributing with purpose.

Grace Douglas (GA/WA)

St Ursula’s

New to the shooting role, she has quickly found her rhythm overcoming nerves with accuracy, rapid pace, and assured movement around the circle.

Veronica Farrow (GS)

St Ursula’s

Growing ever more confident; accuracy and reliability has become the mainstay for this shooter who offers both movement and holding ability in the circle.

Georgia McAuliffe (C/WD)

St Ursula’s

Consistency and reliability have become her trademarks controlling the speed of the game and ensuring the ball is transitioned through the court.

Ali Murray (WD/C)

St Ursula’s

Relentlessly alert, she uses her sharp game sense to anticipate and disrupt the opposition creating chances to force turnovers and shift momentum.

Sienna Nielsen (GK/GD)

St Ursula’s

Anchoring the goal circle with strength, a defensive pillar who shuts down scoring opportunities through intercepts and rebounds.

St Ursula's First VII team (from left) Sienna Nielsen, Meila Beckett, Ali Murray, Georgia McAuliffe, Mikayla O’Neill, Darcie Gillis, Jorja Bubb, Rose Coren, Veronica Farrow, Grace Douglas.
St Ursula's First VII team (from left) Sienna Nielsen, Meila Beckett, Ali Murray, Georgia McAuliffe, Mikayla O’Neill, Darcie Gillis, Jorja Bubb, Rose Coren, Veronica Farrow, Grace Douglas.

Abigail Hyde (GK/GK)

Downlands

A strong circle defender who plays with intensity and intelligence. She sets a great example by combining fierce competitiveness with outstanding sportsmanship.

Ella Norton (C/WA)

Downlands

A defining member of the First VII, bringing a wealth of knowledge and representative-level experience. Her voice is a constant presence on court, offering encouragement and problem-solving to lift her team.

Carrie Coetzee (GD/WD)

Downlands

A workhorse in defence, constantly doing the unseen work that disrupts play and creates turnover opportunities. With representative-level experience, she’ll stop at nothing to chase this victory for her team.

Emily Simms (C/WA)

Downlands

A smart and quick midcourter with tunnel vision for success. She brings flair, aggression, and a strong shoulder pass, making her a standout leader in the middle. Always alert, Emily is quick to snatch up any loose ball and turn it into an opportunity.

Ella Maxwell (GK/GD)

Downlands

A dominant force in the defensive circle, using her height to get hands to turnover ball and disrupt play. Her presence puts constant pressure on shooters. Rebounds are never safe with Ella around, as she’s quick to contest and claim possession.

Anne Fitzgerald (GA/GS)

Downlands

A sharp shooter who dominates the circle with her speed, smarts, and high shooting percentage. As a senior player, she brings calm control and leadership to the shooting end. You’ll often see her communicating with her fellow shooter, always working to be better.

Lynleigh Beutel (WD/GD)

Downlands

Plays with constant intensity, never allowing her opponent a moment to rest. A tireless defender, she works hard to create turnovers and is always ready to support the attack in bringing the ball down the court.

Anne Fitzgerald of Downlands. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Anne Fitzgerald of Downlands. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Mia Kleidon in action during last year’s Merici-Chevalier Cup. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Mia Kleidon in action during last year’s Merici-Chevalier Cup. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Mia Kleidon (GA/GS)

Downlands

A small but mighty lightning-fast shooter with fantastic vision for the post. Always on the move, she creates space effortlessly and isn’t afraid to take on a long shot when needed.

Genevieve Hyde (WA/C)

Downlands

One of the youngest on the team, but she’s already a commanding presence on the court. She’s skilled at quickly getting over the line at the centre pass and turning her hips down to spot her shooter. Gen works hard from the first whistle to the last.

Genevieve Hyde in action during last year’s Merici-Chevalier Cup. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Genevieve Hyde in action during last year’s Merici-Chevalier Cup. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Caitlin O’Neill (GS/GA)

Downlands

Is quickly making her mark with a strong shooting percentage and a calm presence under pressure. Her ability to step up and deliver in key moments makes her a valuable asset to the shooting circle.

St Ursula's Second VII team (from left) Penelope Cavanough, Annabel Bond, Mykah Bryant, Sophie Woodward, Millie Ryan, Molly Toms, Yana Shevchenko, Amelia Dunemann, Taylah Priebbenow, Gabrielle Bartkowski
St Ursula's Second VII team (from left) Penelope Cavanough, Annabel Bond, Mykah Bryant, Sophie Woodward, Millie Ryan, Molly Toms, Yana Shevchenko, Amelia Dunemann, Taylah Priebbenow, Gabrielle Bartkowski

SECOND VII

Molly Toms (GD/WD)

St Ursula’s

The co-captain shows wisdom beyond her experience, she approaches the game with composure resulting in well-timed defensive plays.

Millicent Ryan (GK)

St Ursula’s

The co-captain is solid and dependable in the circle, she

positions herself and communicates clearly to anchor the defence and support her

teammates.

Mykah Bryant (GA/WD)

St Ursula’s

Formerly a fearless centre court defender, she has made a bold leap into shooting bringing with her the same mindset and competitive edge.

Yana Shevchenko (WA/C)

St Ursula’s

With blistering speed and agile movement, her game knowledge keeps defenders on their heels and fuels momentum around the court.

Gabrielle Bartkowski (WA/GS)

St Ursula’s

Still adapting to game play pressures, her team-first mentality shines through in every play, supporting those around her.

Annabel Bond (GD/WD)

St Ursula’s

Steady and trustworthy in defence, making smart decisions under contest and finding space to initiate transitions down the court.

Penny Cavanough (GA/GS)

St Ursula’s

An assertive presence creating space while her shooting precision makes her a threat from anywhere within the circle.

Amellia Dunemann (C/WD)

St Ursula’s

Calm and composed demeanour lulls opponents into a false sense of control.

Taylah Priebbenow (GS/GK)

St Ursula’s

Recently transitioned into a shooting role, she’s quickly making her mark drawing on her strong defensive background to bring a unique edge to her game.

Sophie Woodward (WA/C)

St Ursula’s

Executing rapid directional changes that keep defenders trailing, her vision down the court allows her to spot passing opportunities early.

Gabrielle Drew in action during last year’s Merici-Chevalier Cup. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Gabrielle Drew in action during last year’s Merici-Chevalier Cup. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Gabrielle Drew (GD/GK)

Downlands

A fearless goal defence with excellent timing and leap. She works well with the GK to shut down goal shooters and intercept passes into the circle.

Katie Parker (WD/GD)

Downlands

A disciplined wing defence who applies relentless pressure on her opponent. She anticipates play well and creates key turnovers in the mid-court.

Liesel Groves (WD/C)

Downlands

A strong impact player who brings fresh intensity into the defensive end. Her hustle and quick reactions make her effective in breaking the play.

Pip Beveridge (WA/C)

Downlands

A fast and agile wing attack who delivers precise feeds into the goal circle. Her strong leads and court awareness make her a vital playmaker in attack.

Rory Nicholls (C/WA)

Downlands

Brings speed and flexibility to any mid-court position, always giving her best. Her positive attitude and work ethic lift the team.

Ella Gunther (C/WA)

Downlands

A tireless centre who covers the whole court with speed and determination. Her quick footwork and consistent support help drive the team’s momentum.

Ella York (GS/GA)

A composed goal shooter who consistently scores with accuracy and confidence. Her strong holds and smart movement in the circle make her a reliable scoring option.

Aaliyah Salmon (GK/GD)

Downlands

A strong and reliable goalkeeper who protects the goal circle with tight defence and great positioning. Her rebounds and shot contests make her a real asset to the defensive end. 

Bree Adam (GA/GS)

Downlands

Brings energy and creativity to the goal attack position, with sharp drives and accurate shooting. She links well with mid-court players and makes smart decisions under pressure.

Ava Tarquinio (GA/GS)

A versatile player who can confidently step into the shooting circle. Her adaptability and calm nature make her a valuable team asset.

St Ursula's Junior A team (from left) Emma Cavanagh, Ayva Emelio, Charlotte James, Makayla Ireland, Ariana Jeffrey, Alexis Ware, Meila Beckett, Chloe Dunmill, Bonnie Fairbanks, Addyson Jackson, Maya Cameron
St Ursula's Junior A team (from left) Emma Cavanagh, Ayva Emelio, Charlotte James, Makayla Ireland, Ariana Jeffrey, Alexis Ware, Meila Beckett, Chloe Dunmill, Bonnie Fairbanks, Addyson Jackson, Maya Cameron

Junior A

Meila Beckett (GD/GK)

St Ursula’s

The co-captain’s dynamic style and aerial strength make her a formidable presence on court elevating her impact with recent exposure to higher-level competitions.

Ariana Jeffrey (GA/GS)

St Ursula’s

The co-captain is a quietly driven athlete who leads by example through consistent performance, precision in shooting and unwavering focus.

Maya Cameron (GK/GD)

St Ursula’s

Discreet and composed defender who subtly draws shooters in, only to catch them off guard and disrupt their rhythm.

Chloe Dunmill (WD/WA)

St Ursula’s

Driven by a hunger to grow, she brings consistency and dependability. Her ability to seamlessly shift between defence and attack adds valuable versatility to the team.

Ayva Emilio (GD/GK)

St Ursula’s

A dependable and consistent defender who brings both skill and heart to the game, inspiring teammates with her positivity and unwavering support.

Bonnie Fairbanks (C/WA)

St Ursula’s

A depth of experience gained across diverse playing environments, her ability to apply learned insights on court makes her strategically sharp in every contest.

Makayla Ireland (C/GA)

St Ursula’s

Determined competitor who embraces the physicality of the game without hesitation. Her fearless approach makes her a relentless force.

Addison Jackson (WD)

St Ursula’s

Dynamic centre court defence, she rises above with exceptional aerial ability and timing. A standout in deflections and intercepts.

Charlotte James (WA/C)

Fast mover who brings energy and pace to every play. Her

adaptability allows her to respond seamlessly to changing game dynamics.

Emma Cavanagh (GS)

St Ursula’s

Despite being the youngest member of the team she holds her own with strength, commanding space within the circle with authority.

Tilly Ryan (GA/GS)

Downlands

Has been a standout in the shooting circle this season, playing both GA and GS. She’s cool under pressure, always finds space, and rarely misses when it counts. Tilly’s been a reliable target and a great team player all year.

Georgina Nunn of Downlands. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Georgina Nunn of Downlands. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Georgina Nunn (C/WA/GA)

Downlands

Has led the team with confidence and energy this season as captain. She’s a true all-rounder, effortlessly transitioning from the centre court to the shooting circle when needed and always gives 100%. Georgina’s voice on court and positive attitude have been a massive part of the team’s success.

Abigail Redinger (GA/GS)

Downlands

A strong presence in the shooting circle all season, playing both GA and GS with beautiful short, sharp movements and great footwork. She brings a calm energy to the court and is always a positive voice in the team. Abi’s timing and ability to read the play make her a real asset in the shooting circle.

Liv McMahon (GS)

Downlands

Liv has been a key target in the shooting circle this season, using her height and strong holding game to full advantage. She knows when to hold and when to pop out, making life easy for her feeders. Liv brings great energy to the team. Liv is committed, always gives her best, and lifts the team vibe both on and off the court.

Alexis Coulter (WD/GD)

A tough and reliable defender who’s been rock solid in both WD and GD this season. She’s got dogged defence, quick footwork, and a great eye for the ball – always ready to pick off an intercept. Alexis brings grit and determination every time she steps on court.

Sophia Hooper (C/WA/GA)

Downlands

A powerhouse through the centre this season, covering the court with speed, smarts, and serious hustle. She reads the court very well and has a knack for pulling off plays that open up the game. Sophia’s tough, determined, and always talking – keeping everyone connected on court.

Erin Coetzee (WA/C)

Downlands

A weapon in the midcourt this season, playing WA and C with sharp vision and precision. She applies great pressure in defence and is just as impressive in attack, consistently feeding the circle with confidence and accuracy. Erin brings speed, smarts and a competitive edge every game.

Alana Reyes (GK/GD)

Downlands

A dominant force in defence this season, holding down the GK position with strength and confidence. She’s a tough match-up for any shooter, using her presence and positioning to shut down play. Alana’s effort and intensity in the circle never go unnoticed.

Sofia Ghidella (WD/GD)

Downlands

Has been a standout this season with her speed, sharp instincts and relentless defence in the WD position. She’s always one step ahead, constantly shutting down her player and creating turnovers. Sofia’s work rate is unmatched, and her impact on the game is massive.

Ettieanne Hass (GD/GK

Downlands

A key defender this season, making her mark in both GD and GK with her incredible reach and athleticism. She’s got a great leap, times her jumps perfectly, and constantly disrupts the opposition’s attack. Etteianne’s presence in the circle makes shooters think twice.

St Ursula's Junior B team (from left) Paige Priebbenow, Lillian Kann, Ellie Bennett, Alexis Ware, Scarlet Haywood, Lucy McMillan, Charlotte Franklin, Abby James, Olivia Webster, Katelyn Scholl
St Ursula's Junior B team (from left) Paige Priebbenow, Lillian Kann, Ellie Bennett, Alexis Ware, Scarlet Haywood, Lucy McMillan, Charlotte Franklin, Abby James, Olivia Webster, Katelyn Scholl

Junior B

Scarlet Haywood (C/WA)

St Ursula’s

A dynamic centre court player who co-captain’s through her actions with lightning speed, and nimble footwork and boundless energy.

Lucy McMillan (WD/GD)

St Ursula’s

An agile defender and inspiring co-captain who never quits and is integral in guiding the ball through a smooth transition down the court.

Ellie Bennett (GD/GK)

St Ursula’s

A developing talent who plays with the steadiness of a seasoned teammate showing that calm under pressure comes naturally.

Lillian Kann (GD/WD)

St Ursula’s

Subtle in style but highly intelligent on court, always developing her game to enhance defensive coverage.

Alexis Ware (GS)

St Ursula’s

A quiet contributor with a strong team mindset, bringing steady hands and a composed presence to shooting.

Olivia Webster (WA/C)

St Ursula’s

A composed and reliable presence in centre court, consistently setting the pace and guiding play with control.

Katelyn Scholl (WA/C/WD)

St Ursula’s

Flexibility to cover all centre court roles, blending speed with an unpredictable style that keeps opponents guessing.

Charlotte Franklin (GA/WA)

St Ursula’s

A steady performer whose spatial instincts in the circle and court sense often fly under the radar.

Abbey James (GA/GS)

St Ursula’s

Transfers her shooter’s intuition into feeding play, enhancing circle support with precision and poise.

Paige Priebbenow (GK/GD)

St Ursula’s

Strong in defence and clear in voice, offering support to the team on court while providing reliable protection near the goal.

Milla Fitzpatrick (GA/GS)

Downlands

New to Downlands this year and has become a strong presence in the team. Milla is a very accurate shooter with excellent circle movement, she consistently positions herself well to be the best option in attack. 

Zara Groves (GS/GA)

Downlands

A positive presence on court and off court with strong communication skills. Zara brings energy and speed to every game. Her sharp movements and accurate shooting make her a key attacking player. 

Poppie Zappa (WA/C)

Downlands

An athletic and dynamic player who brings strong drives to the ball and impressive speed across the court. With a “never say die” attitude and a true team-first mindset, she gives 100% in every game and moment. 

Sophie Nunn (C/WA)

Downlands

Calm under pressure and a natural leader on court. She delivers excellent feeds into the circle with precision and confidence. Sophie guides the attack with her great vision, composure and control.

Latoya Challenor (WA/C)

Downlands

The link between attack and defence, she brings a strong will to succeed and impressive speed to every aspect of the game. Her drive and enthusiasm make her a valued member of the team — on and off the court. Latoya’s presence on the court will be significantly missed on Friday as continues to recover from an injury.

Makayla Ahearn (GK/GD)

Downlands

Makayla is a strong force in the circle and consistently applies pressure with impressive arms-over defence. She holds a solid rebound position and her defensive strength makes it tough for any shooter to settle comfortably.

Camille Wade (GK/GD)

Downlands

Brings an outstanding defensive impact to the game, with incredible intercepts and great ability to read the play. Her constant pressure and strong rebounding make her a key asset in shutting down the oppositions attack.

Alexis Herbener (WD/C)

Downlands

Applies great hands-over pressure on the ball, often creating tips and turnovers. Her strong circle edge defence plays a key role in disrupting the opposition’s attack and supporting the circle defenders. She also provides a reliable back-up option for our attackers, always ready to reset the play when needed.

Matilda Montgomery (GS/GK)

Downlands

Brings valuable height to the court and showcases her versatility by playing strongly in both our attack and defence. She’s an accurate shooter and a tough defender, making her a key asset wherever she’s needed.

Kate Bootes (WA/WD/GA/GD)

Downlands

An extremely versatile player, whether its attacking, shooting or defending Kate will succeed. She is silent achiever who you can always count on to consistently deliver strong performances.

St Ursula's Junior C team (from left) Lola Youngberry, Eve Phillips, Eliza Postle, Dakota Bryant, Zoe Giles, Isabelle McKeiver, Eliza Ware, Olivia Kelly, Sienna Ryan, Jorja Pott Absent: Addie Eyles
St Ursula's Junior C team (from left) Lola Youngberry, Eve Phillips, Eliza Postle, Dakota Bryant, Zoe Giles, Isabelle McKeiver, Eliza Ware, Olivia Kelly, Sienna Ryan, Jorja Pott Absent: Addie Eyles

Junior C

Isabelle McKeiver (GD/WD)

St Urusula’s

The co-captain is comfortable in defence, thriving on the challenge posed by the opposition.

Zoe Giles (WA/C)

St Urusula’s

The co-captain possesses an instinctive grasp of the game, guiding play with clarity and leading through action.

Addie Eyles (WA/GA)

St Urusula’s

Quick to spot opportunities, guiding the ball down court with precision and pace.

Olivia Kelly (C/WD)

St Urusula’s

Bursting with energy, a fierce defender and a fast-moving centre court player known for dependability.

Sienna Ryan (GS)

St Urusula’s

Establishes powerful circle positioning, consistently asserting control near the post.

Eve Phillips (GK/GD)

St Urusula’s

Brings intensity and heartfelt commitment to every defensive play.

Eliza Postle (GA/GS)

St Urusula’s

A precise shooter who continues to elevate her positional play by embracing every opportunity, on and off the court.

Jorja Pott (WD)

St Urusula’s

Applies basketball experience to deliver solid defensive play and dependable movement down the netball court.

Lola Youngberry (GK/GD)

St Urusula’s

Uses her reach effectively to dominate aerial contests and claim rebounds under the post.

Dakota Bryant (C/WA)

St Urusula’s

Maintains a high-energy pace, constantly active and engaged on court.

Eliza Ware (GA/WA)

St Urusula’s

Reserved in nature but rises to the occasion in the shooting circle with calm execution.

Lily Carter (C/WA)

Downlands

fast and agile, lily is a pocket rocket flying up and down the court, you might not see her but you’ll hear her.

Harriet Baines (WA/C)

Downlands

Speedy and reliable the captain is humble and a supportive.

Sia Luck (WD/GD)

Downlands

Sticking to her player like glue, Sia steals the ball and supporters hearts.

Ruby Lindenmayer (GA/WA)

Downlands

Scoring goals and creating space, Ruby’s a playmaker and a sharp shooter.

Mary Duff (GS/GA)

Downlands

Committed, hard working and tough, Mary has the guts to get the goal

Caitlin Paton (WD/GK)

Downlands

A defensive machine and super keen, Caitlin is one of the nicest players on the team.

Brianna Jacques (GK/GD)

Downlands

Turning up the pressure when it really matters, Bre dominates in the goal circle.

IvyStafflu (GS/GA)

Downlands

The queen of the circle split, when Ivy shoots you’ll hear the swish

Addison Saal (GD/GK)

Downlands

With go-go gadget arms and springs for legs, Addie get the intercepts with ease.

Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/sport/schoolgirl-netball-rivals-downlands-and-st-ursulas-ready-to-clash-in-annual-mericichevalier-cup/news-story/fea3cbbf3491ab56888cc13c569de7a5