EXPERIENCE, talent and proven combinations are a feature of the Nelson Bay Netball Association’s senior representative teams for the 2025 season.

Officials have announced both the 17yrs and open squads selected to represent the association at next year’s Senior State titles to be staged in Camden and Campbelltown from June 7-9.

They’ll be joined by the 15yrs Nelson Bay representative squad, named earlier this year.

Well-credentialed Fiona McGrath (Head Coach) and manager Michelle Weber, will guide the fortunes of the 17yrs representative squad for the 2025 campaign.

The squad features Melody Tibbs, Chelsea Johnson, Isabella Gardner, Amber Redman, Charlize Fines, Anneliese Jones, Charli Ball, Kate Slade and Tara Kenny.

Nelson Bay Netball president Rebecca Keating and talented player coach Ashlee Hall have been appointed co-coaches of the Opens representative squad.

Loaded with skill and experience, the Opens line-up includes seasoned campaigners Brooke Hunter, Ella Jones, Lucy Levido, Emma Dawson, Katie Schein, Jilarnie Ahoy, Brooke Robbins, Emma Murphy and Bronte Micheli.

Selectors have also named two training partners in Maddy Turner and Ash Martin.

Accomplished mother-daughter duo Amanda Wilks and Taylar Wilks take the reins of the 15yrs representative squad, which will be managed by Michelle Chadwick.

The squad features Georgia Burgess, Piper Mullins, Kiola Cheviott, Jasmine Gambell, Tayla Provis, Lucy Soloman-James, Gabby McCallum, Hartley Cobb-Hamilton and Abby Skinner.

Nelson Bay’s younger brigade showed their wares at the recent Koori Netball tournament hosted by Charlestown Netball Association.

The promising youngsters produced outstanding performances to reach the Grand Final – only to be pipped by a single goal in the trophy decider.

President and life member Rebecca Keating told News Of The Area that the girls proved “amazing ambassadors for the Port Stephens region.”

“They showcased resilience, teamwork and incredible skill but ultimately fell short.

“With determination and courage these players pushed through every match, reaching the grand final with very little training.

“The team also receives the Spirit Award for their top sportsmanship throughout the day. It was inspiring to see how far they progressed and the heart they put into every game.”

By Chris KARAS