Warragul netballers performed solidly but walked away with just one win in the "Western Derby" with Drouin on Sunday.
A grade: Warragul 40 lost to Drouin 48
The Gulls were no match for a very strong Drouin side.
Defenders Renee Nobelius and Ella Rees gave their best efforts, with goalers Jaime Rollinson and Kate Emerson converting every turnover they could.
It was an unfortunate day, but the club is looking forward to seeing the team evolve in 2023.
B grade: Warragul 40 lost to Drouin 41
It is always a tough hit out against Drouin, but round one was always going to make it that little bit tougher.
It was anyone's game on Sunday, and it came down the the final minutes as both teams went goal-for-goal.
Unfortunately, the Gull girls couldn't get over the line, losing by just one goal.
Defenders Mackenzie Minichiello and Pippa Cook were well deserved best on court due to their determination and hunger for the ball.
Support through the midcourt with Becky O'Halloran, Lily Sheehan, Ella Gaul, Ellie Beechey-Danvers and Steph Paul made the most of the newly introduced rolling subs.
Goalers Sophie Fennell and Naomi Allardyce were all class in the ring.
C grade: Warragul 31 lost to Drouin 43
What an incredible start to the season for a new C grade outfit.
The veterans showed guidance to the younger girls, leading by example down the court. It was amazing to see the younger girls move through a range of different positions and take each in their stride.
Charli Hendrikse was strong in the midcourt, showing drive through the centre and tight defence in wing defence. Bridie Mulqueen moved through three different positions, showing adaptability and determination in attack and defence.
A fantastic game from the whole team to kick off the season.
17 and under: Warragul 21 lost to Drouin 38
In a tough first hit out against Drouin, Warragul went down by 17 goals.
The defence end in Felicity Prestige and Arabelle Looby worked tirelessly against strong Drouin goalers.
In the second half, changes were made and Mackenzie Heenan come onto wing attack and Molly Young was moved into centre. This combination worked beautifully to feed into goalers Hannah Davis and Lainey Gowans.
Awards: Hannah Davis and Mackenzie Heenan.
15 and under: Warragul 30 defeated Drouin 19
In a strong start to the competition, Warragul had a great win against rivals Drouin.
The Gulls displayed excellent teamwork to secure the first win of the season.
Awards: Alishia Smith for strong defensive pressure and Edie Flanagan for solid presence in the midcourt.
13 and under: Warragul 13 lost to Drouin 39
The youngest Gulls, coached by Sienna Green, all turned up for their first game full of excitement.
Having put in a hard pre-season, their skills and teamwork really shined on the court. Whilst they didn't walk away with a win, they all played exceptionally well.
Awards: vice captain Elizabeth Kuol and Bella Senini who never gave up and were well deserving.