STRATFORD’s new netball court was officially opened on Saturday.
Representatives from Wellington Shire Council and supporters were on hand for the opening, just before Stratford’s A grade side took on Lindenow during round four of the East Gippsland league.
The new court is next to the clubrooms, and there is a larger shed, drainage works, and a new entrance to the reserve.
As well as a professional-standard surface, the new lights have made training much easier, according to coach Geordie Cutler.
“The lights are ridiculously bright,” she said.
“We’re really excited; being closer means we’ll have more spectators, and bringing the clubs closer together is great, as partners can watch each other play.”
Swans netball president Kym Albrecht agreed.
“These amazing facilities … continue to, make the club a better place,” she said.
“We have a great family base at the football-netball club, and we hope to have great, successful seasons here.
“It’s been talked about for a couple of years that this would happen, and we were fortunate at the end of last season it all started off.”
Wellington Shire mayor Carolyn Crossley said the $207,000, partly funded through the council and the state government and the fundraising efforts of the club, would be good for the town.
“The heart of soul of small communities is often the football-netball club,” she said.
“This is great for the girls and women they’ve got a great, safe surface and lights, and they’re closer to the heart of the team.”
Stratford lost to Lindenow 45-33. The Cats returned to the top of the ladder with the victory.
In the other match to complete the split round, Boisdale-Briagolong lost a Wy Yung 45-33. The Tigers are in fourth place, behind Stratford on percentage.
IN North Gippsland netball, Woodside defeated Sale City 40-34 at Stephenson Park.
The Wildcats remain in second place undefeated, while the Bulldogs fell to fifth.
Top side Heyfield won at Gormandale 57-41, while Rosedale lost to Churchill 32-29.
Glengarry is third after edging passed Yarram 49-47, Cowwarr moved into fourth after defeating Traralgon-Tyers United 49-30.
