Netball
16 September, 2024
Panthers win first netball premiership in 20 years
The last time Rupanyup won a netball premiership was in 2004 with the 17-and-under. In 2024, they won the 15-and-under, defeating Kalkee by 16 goals.
The first quarter was tight, with the Panthers taking a one-goal lead into quarter-time. A bigger second quarter from both teams saw 23 goals scored, and the Panthers extended the margin to four at half-time.
The Panthers set up the victory in the third quarter, shooting 13 goals to seven to lead by ten at the final break. They added another 14 goals in the last to run out 48-32 winners.
Ilze Van Zyl was named best on the court, shooting 31 goals. Lara Webb shot 17. Phoebe Downer was sensational throughout the centre.
For Kalkee, Maggie Fisher scored 18 goals, Tayla Hudson scored 13, and Ella Schultz scored one. Keeley Schultz was also excellent in the centre for the Kees.
Rupanyup only lost one game for the year, a one-goal thriller to Laharum in round 11. They have been a dominant team, but coach Kath Webb knew it would be a tough game.
"It was the fourth time we have played Kalkee, and the first time we won by ten goals, and the second time it was only three, and the semi-final two weeks ago, we only won by five," Webb said.
"Coming into the game, we knew it would be super tough, and it's so exciting and so good for the club as it's been a long time coming.
"The whole community and club has gotten behind us, and it's a credit to the nine players. We have an amazing talent, and they did it all, and we achieved it, and I couldn't be more prouder."