THE Gippsland Stars are off to a shooting start as the inaugural Gippsland Victorian Netball League team hosted its first entire club session on Monday, November 20.
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is this VNL team, but the work at the Stars is well underway this offseason.
The coaching, committee and playing group all met to discuss the path forward for season 2024.
On the night, Ruby Pratt was announced as the development assistant coach. A Gippsland local, Pratt has had an extensive career at Drouin in the Gippsland League. Coaching the Drouin A Grade side alongside fellow Stars coach Stacie Gardiner, Pratt has been proven and tested in the coaching seat. Having also coached Gippsland League representative sides in the All-Stars competition, the future of the VNL development side looks to be in safe hands.
The off-the-court team made their introductions to the club. Jodi Galea introduced herself as the VNL committee chair, Carlie Dwyer as the operations manager, Luana Brock as the club development officer, and Daniel Heathcote as the Stars’ chief executive.
The coaching philosophy at the Stars will be all about being supportive and inclusive to foster an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
The wellbeing of the young athletes will be a key priority of the Stars, alongside building a strong sense of team and pride in Gippsland.
The 23 and Under side and the 19 and Under side has already hit the track running, with preseason training beginning mid-November.
The focus for the Stars during the preseason will be fitness first, followed by strength and conditioning, match play, and team bonding.
Gippsland Stars coaching panel Ruby Pratt, Roger Palmer, Jo Ballinger and Stacie Gardiner.
