The Yarrawonga Pigeons netball team is set to compete for their second consecutive championship as they face the Wodonga Raiders in the A-grade grand final this Sunday. Under the guidance of coach Lauren Mulquiney, the Pigeons have established themselves as a dominant force in the sport, having won nine of the last 14 A-grade grand finals. Since 2004, they have consistently placed third or higher in the competition.
Mulquiney attributes the team’s success to a unified ambition among players to excel. “I think what drives our girls is just a real desire to win and be the best they can be, even more so than a need to win,” she remarked. The Pigeons boast a wealth of experience, with key players such as Bridget Cassar, Laura Irvine, Kylie Leslie, and Annalise Grinter each having participated in over 300 games. Their leadership includes premiership coach Laura Davis and the 2016 Toni Wilson Medallist Hannah Symes.
As they prepare for the upcoming match, the Pigeons are keen to address the lessons learned from their earlier semi-final loss to the Raiders. Mulquiney noted that discipline was a critical factor in that game. “We had an unusual game where I think our whole team was out of play more than we have been out all season,” she explained. “We weren’t adjusting to the umpires, and we weren’t particularly disciplined.” This time, the team is focusing on maintaining their composure and adapting to the game’s flow.
The Pigeons’ roster includes a diverse group of players from various backgrounds, enriching the team’s dynamics. “We have stay-at-home mums, a doctor, a dentist, and students,” Mulquiney shared. This blend of life experiences provides valuable mentorship for the younger players transitioning to A-grade competition. “It’s really nice for those young players to have such a collection of experienced players that softens that transition,” she added.
Captain Laura Irvine emphasized the importance of team cohesion. “They’ve had a core group together for quite a few years now, and I think that’s flying under the radar a little bit,” she stated. The Raiders, who are entering their third consecutive grand final, pose a significant challenge. Irvine acknowledged their strength, saying, “They have had the bulk of their team stick together, and they have worked really hard to get where they are.”
Reflecting on her previous tenure as coach, Mulquiney recalled leading the Pigeons to their 2012 premiership. She drew parallels between her past experience and the current situation, highlighting the growth that comes with repeated high-stakes matches. “Every time you get to that point, you’re better for the experience and you cope with the pressure a little bit better,” she noted.
In addition to the A-grade final, the Pigeons will also have their B-grade side competing in this weekend’s championship, showcasing the depth of talent within the club. As the Yarrawonga community rallies behind their teams, all eyes will be on the court as they aim for another successful chapter in their storied history.
