Jodie Hayes to lead A Grade Dimboola Roos| Wimmera Netball Association 2018

Hayes won the side’s best and fairest award in 2017 and her stellar season saw her finish runner-up in the Hatcher medal count.

She takes over the A Grade role from current Dimboola netball director Ant Toet.

Toet said the club had been in talks with Hayes for some time.

“We’re thrilled to have her step up,” she said. “She brought some really good and fresh ideas last year which helped mix things up. Her appointment also opens the door for other coach changes.”

Prior to playing for Dimboola, Hayes spent three seasons with Rupanyup A Grade team in the Horsham District competition.

She developed her game while playing for East Warrnambool in the Warrnambool and District Football Netball League and was part of her first A Grade premiership at the age of just 14 in 2009.

“Jodie is really well respected within the playing group and the club,” Toet said. “You just need to ask and you know that she will be more than willing to help.”

Toet said Haye’s experience playing state league from young age means she will bring a different approach to the role.

“Jodie has so much knowledge and smarts on the court,” she said.

Part of Haye’s plan will be to have the senior playing group train together across all three grades.

“That’s not something we’ve been able to do in recent seasons,” Toet said.