North Albury coach Emily Browne has commended defender Gracy Hay for her outstanding performance in the Victorian Netball League. Following her inaugural season with the club’s under-23 side, Hay earned both the Western Warriors best and fairest award and the rising star accolade. Browne, who made history last year by becoming the first player to win four Toni Wilson medals, anticipates that Hay will play a significant role in this season’s awards as well.
“Gracy has just had a remarkable season, and, honestly, if she doesn’t poll well in the Toni Wilson or win it, I will be very surprised,” Browne expressed. She highlighted the dedication of Hay and teammate Lily Kelly, noting that both players have consistently travelled to Melbourne for commitments but have not missed a training session. “They show so much commitment to do that,” she added, emphasizing their focus on balancing club and external responsibilities.
As North Albury prepares for its second consecutive A-grade finals series, the team is set to face Lavington in an elimination match at Martin Park this Sunday. Browne reflected on the team’s performance, stating, “It’s a year of hard work, and now it all starts again for the next few weeks to try and make the big final at the end.” She noted that most games this season have been closely contested, creating an atmosphere akin to finals netball, with enthusiastic crowds adding to the excitement.
Looking ahead, Browne is optimistic about the club’s growth. “I’m just happy with where the club’s at,” she remarked, recalling how the junior teams once dominated. “It’s nice to see that we’re filtering to the top now with A and B in and going from there.” Her enthusiasm underscores the progress that North Albury has made over the past few years.
The finals series is set to kick off with a qualifying match between Corowa-Rutherglen and Wodonga Raiders at Bunton Park on Saturday. As the competition heats up, all eyes will be on the teams vying for the championship, with Browne asserting, “It’s going to be an interesting finals series. It’s anyone’s game now.”
