Eight boys and six girls participated in the trial at the Bendigo stadium, which was the first of two trials, the second will be in Horsham on February 23.

For many of the players it was their first hit out for the season so players could be excused for being a little rusty,

but according to all coaches the players certainly set a high standard so early in the season.

Premier women’s coach David Berry was satisfied with what he saw during the girls trial.

“Our members didn’t disappoint and certainly staked their claims for starting positions in each of the four teams.”

Players like Tamikah Dockrill, Laelah Robertson and Delaney Wills trialed well while Jade Saligari and Hannah Whyte surprised with their improved skill.

“Hannah was great in the senior practice match in her role as setter and defended really well which coaches like.”

“Jade got into it during all sessions and showed the benefit of her last twelve months in the academy program leading a lot of drills by example.”

There were at least four or five members who couldn’t trial for various reasons and those will add further depth to the talent pool when they attend the second trial in Horsham.

Kara Johnson, Emily Hannan, Eadie Garth Lindsay, Cleo Baker and Chloe Brown are all quality players and coaches are looking forward to seeing them at the next trial.

It all points to a season where all Phantoms teams will be looking to improve on results from last year.

“In saying that it’s pretty hard to beat a premiership like the division three men’s team were able to achieve but with players stepping up and new younger players coming in,

expectation is still high for a successful year right across the board.”

The state league season starts March 30 with Phantoms traveling to the state volleyball centre.

April 13/14 will see Phantoms host a round on Horsham which will be great for all our members and their families.

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