The Victorian Netball League will expand to welcome three new clubs next year. The Bendigo Strikers, Gippsland Stars and Western Warriors enter Victoria’s premier netball competition as part of exciting changes set to help grow the game across the state.
The Bendigo Strikers and Gippsland Stars join existing club Geelong Cougars in representing regional Victoria, reflecting the strength of the game and passionate netball fanbase outside of Melbourne. Gippsland Stars will initially field a 23&Under team before entering the Championship division by 2027.
The third new club, Melton-based Western Warriors addresses the fast-growing appetite for the game in Melbourne’s booming north-west fringe.
The three new clubs are based in parts of the state identified in Netball Victoria’s broader growth strategy. They will help build the profile and reputation of our sport, while making the competition more accessible and creating additional opportunities for emerging talent.
With the overall strength and depth of applications, unfortunately current VNL club Ariels was unsuccessful in renewing their licence. Netball Victoria thanks Ariels for their contribution to the VNL. Netball Victoria recognises this outcome is disappointing for those involved at all levels with Ariels and is working closely with the club to manage the impact of the decision.
As the VNL expands from 10 to 12 clubs, next year’s new-look competition will reduce from three to two divisions – Championship and 23&Under – aligning with other State League competitions in Australia. Clubs will be allowed up to two development teams, competing in and bolstering feeder competitions, as part of their club pathway.
“We are excited to welcome three new clubs to the Victorian Netball League following a highly competitive application process,” said Netball Victoria CEO Andrea Pearman.
“The inclusion of these clubs will ensure more athletes, coaches and officials from regional Victoria and north-western Melbourne are represented in our premier competition and showcase the exceptional talent and passion for netball in those regions.”
“We thank all the applicants for their commitment to the licensing process, which was reflected in the high quality of applications received and which gives us great confidence in the passion and capability of our Victorian netball community.”
2024 VICTORIAN NETBALL LEAGUE CLUBS
| CHAMPIONSHIP *Bendigo Strikers Boroondara Express Casey Demons City West Falcons Geelong Cougars Hawks Netball Melbourne University Lightning North East Blaze Peninsula Waves *Western Warriors Wilson Storage Southern Saints | 23&UNDER *Bendigo Strikers Boroondara Express Casey Demons City West Falcons Geelong Cougars *Gippsland Stars Hawks Netball Melbourne University Lightning North East Blaze Peninsula Waves *Western Warriors Wilson Storage Southern Saints |
*Indicates new club