GFNL Netball Preview | Round 17

AFL Barwon writer Wil Spence previews this weekend’s A Grade Netball matches in the Geelong Football Netball League.

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Bell Park vs Grovedale

Hamlyn Park, 1:40PM, Saturday 23rd August, 2025

Bell Park had plenty to celebrate after their first victory in six weeks. Whilst the Dragons will be hoping to finish their season off with some positive signs ahead of season 2026.

Grovedale has faced a difficult past fortnight but have an opportunity to change the ledger and climb up the ladder.

For the Dragons, in attack Makaela Connelly should be well rested after the bye, currently coming off a 44-goal shooting display.

Tigers key figure in defense, Eunice Kidmas will be prevalent with her intercept ability as will supporting duo Gabrielle Beaver and Skye Fulton.

Geelong West Giants vs St Mary’s

West Oval Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 23rd August, 2025

Both clubs may see each other in a fortnight's time, shaping as an exciting match with top three on the line for Geelong West Giants.

A win for the Giants keeps them in contention for a top three spot, a loss this weekend and an elimination final against St Mary’s is most likely locked in.

The last time both clubs played each other was back in round one with the Giants coming out on top.

You’d expect St Mary’s would like to even the ledger ahead of September.

Giants captain and star goal shooter, Aleisha McDonald has shot 482 goals for the season and should see plenty of attention.

St Mary’s midcourt, Grace Blood will be important setting up her attack in transition as well as supporting her defense.

Lara vs Newtown & Chilwell

Lara Recreation Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 23rd August, 2025

Must-win game for the reigning premiers, if they’re to lock up the minor premiership.

A win would ensure top spot; however, a loss could see St Joseph’s jump the Towners if St Joseph’s were to defeat St Albans.

With finals out of the equation and a bye to finish the season for Lara, a win would be a nice way to finish the season for the Cats as they look ahead to next season.

Star goal keeper, Millie van Diemen should have a major influence in defense for the Cats, reading the play as she sets up her teammates in attack.

For Newtown, star wing attack, and inaugural Coaches Player of the Year, Vanessa Augustini will play a pivotal role, this weekend.

South Barwon vs Colac 

McDonald Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 23rd August, 2025

Plenty to play out for South Barwon as they can lock in a top three spot with a win this weekend against the improved Colac outfit.

Coming off a bye, the Swans started slowly against St Mary’s,

However, they got the ball rolling in the third and fourth quarter as they demonstrated their credentials as a premiership contender.

The Tigers were well in the hunt for an upset win but faded in the final quarter.

Swans captain, Olivia Cameron should have an important role with her flexibility playing in attack and as a midcourt.

For the Tigers, Monika Hammond will most likely spend some time on Cameron, which shapes as an exciting match up in the midcourt.

Tune into AFL Barwon TV from 1.40pm on Saturday to watch live coverage of this big clash! 

St Joseph’s vs St Albans

Herne Hill Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 23rd August, 2025

If results fall their way, St Joseph’s could be on top of the ladder after this weekend.

St Joseph’s handed St Albans a 64-goal defeat back in round four,

St Albans will be looking to start strong applying early pressure.

St Joseph’s star, Ella Closter should have plenty of opportunity in front of goals, having shot 42 goals last weekend.

St Albans defense will have an important role, with Jaime Dumbell, Isabel Henriksen and Shaya Walter all looking to intercept and setup their attack.

Bye: Leopold