A new-look Riddell will take some time to settle in the Riddell District Netball League.
After strong 2021 season, where they were on top of the ladder when the season was called off, the Bombers are hoping to again be in the mix.
But with just two players from last year’s squad coming back full time, it will be a very different looking line up.
Coach Adam Boldiston said he was looking forward to seeing the new line-up on the court.
“It’s a totally different line up,” he said. “The two Close sisters, Lauren [Nolan] and Ellen are back again, but apart from that it’s a new line up.
“While it’s a new line up, it’s not entirely new to me.”
Boldiston said Taryn Munro wouldn’t play this season due to pregnancy, while Ash Hardy is travelling.
Kirby Elliott has joined Gisborne, while Tara O’Grady will play on the other side of the city.
Boldiston said Ruth Smith and Elly Randell might play some games, but can’t commit full time.
While there are some outs from the squad, Boldiston said he was excited by the players who have joined the club.
“I’m bringing across Beck Anstey,” he said. “And I’ve recruited a couple of girls from the Sunbury Lions, Shelby Holter and Lara Turner.
“They’re young girls and it’s great to give them opportunities, I really enjoyed coaching them at Lions.
“They are both good young talents. Shelby’s dad used to play football for Riddell, she’s kind of excited to be playing for the club.
“It’ll be an interesting different dynamic.”
Chelsea Tobin has moved back up to A-grade having previously played in the club’s top side before.
Maddy Brown, who won the club’s under-19 best and fairest award last season, has also stepped up.
Boldiston said while they had lost some experience in the mid court, he was excited about what the new side can do.
“I’m gaining some speed with the two new midcouters,” he said. “Shelby when she is on can shoot the same volume of goals as Tara.
“I think still really strong defensively with Beck Anstey and Loz Nolan. They’re going to be very experienced defensive duo and they are going to win us plenty of ball.”
Boldiston said it could take some time for the side to gel together.
The Bombers will have a good test first up, facing Macedon on April 2.
“They are always a good yardstick when you come up against them, ” he said.
“We’ll be something a little bit different, I don’t expect us to be fantastic to start the year.”
The club is still looking for B-grade and C-grade players for this season. Boldiston sadi ideally a couple more defenders and shooters would be good to fill those grades.
