Robin Hood unveils new look

ROBIN Hood will field a new-look side in the 2010 Orange Netball Association division one competition.

Just three of the players who helped Robin Hood to their second first division title last year have returned in 2010.

Coach Neryl Manns is still at the helm and, after a few training sessions, is happy with the side she has.

“Our team changes every year,” Manns said.

“At least before I’ve kept a core of players. I’ve usually had Teigan (Colley), Amy (Read), Amanda Rouse, Kathy Kennedy and Monica (Sutherland). This year I’ve only kept Emily (Winterton), Rousey and Kristy (Sullivan).

“At the start I was a bit worried but I’m more confident now. I had a look at them again on Tuesday night and I think they’re going to be a competitive side.”

Robin Hood will field a youthful side in 2010 with young players such as shooters Sinead Bradley and Kellie Watson joining the team.

Watson lives in Bathurst but has joined Robin Hood so she can play in the Orange competition.

The Robin Hood defence will be tough to beat this season.

Winterton offers plenty of height while the side has also picked up Narelle Walsh, who has come from Sydney, and Bindi Irwin, who has returned to Orange after a few years away.

“Those three are all fit and can jump,” Manns said.

The mid-court boasts experienced players Rouse and Leigh Florence as well as young recruits Sarah Cooper and Kate Lawson.

Kennedy is not playing due to work commitments but will return to help coach the wing attack and wing defence players.

“It’s a big blow (losing Kennedy) because I believe she was the best wing player in the competition,” Manns said.

Robin Hood Fitness Perfection have also picked up a number of new faces including Emily McWhirter and Gabrielle Miller.

Manns believes Fitness Perfection, who are coached by Chris Rieksen, will be a team to watch in 2010.

“Fitness Perfection have a good side. I think they’re going to be competitive,” she said.

The Robin Hood executive is looking forward to the season ahead with new president Lynne Ryan and vice-president Jane Gosper excited about the club’s potential.

“We have seven senior sides this year. We’ve picked up an extra junior side so we have five this year,” Ryan explained.

“We had a big turnout on our sign-on day and then our selections went easily. It’s gone well,” Gosper said.

The Orange Netball Association competition will start on April 24.