Sport
Improving young Hawks give plenty to cheer for

Drouin's junior netballers showcased their improvement against Moe last Saturday, with one win, one draw and one loss.
For the senior grades, Moe proved too strong, with C grade proving a nail-biter.


A grade: Drouin 40 lost to Moe 61
It's been a strange few weeks for the A grade Hawks, but not once have they disappointed or not given supporters a game to cheer about.
Stacie Gardiner returned to the court, doing a fantastic job with Ruby Pratt in the goal ring against some tough defensive players from Moe.
It was another chance for two fabulous juniors getting the opportunity to cut their teeth in the A grade team, gaining valuable experience in the process.
The third quarter was great to watch, showcasing how well this team can play. In defence, April Bethune and Kym Diston played a strong defensive game in the ring. Kym came out hunting and picked off the ball.
It was great to see Ella Henderson have a crack in goal defence after playing in centre for the first three quarters. She is always a "pest" against her opponents.
Awards: Kym Diston and Stacie Gardiner.
B grade: Drouin 37 lost to Moe 56
After some fabulous wins, the girls struggled to get their game plays to stick against Moe who had answers for everything they tried to do.
The Hawks had some great plays and movements down court to celebrate, and this team isn't ready to give up.
It was another week of strong defensive play from Chelsea DeRiter, Ali McArthur, Maddy Caddy and Ruby Pritchett.
The connection in the attacking end had a tough day out. However, the constant voice of Jodie Proctor with her never give up attitude, was amazing and helpful at times when it was a struggle.
Awards: Chelsea DeRiter and Jodie Proctor.
C grade: Drouin 32 lost to Moe 33
A missed opportunity and the tale of so many games. One goal in netball, one centre pass or one intercept. Over the course of nearly an hour, how it comes down to a few minutes is the sport that we love. And this time, it didn't go the Hawks' way.
In attack, Emily Bethune and Georgia Lightowler combined beautifully in the ring, holding their space and capitalising on excellent passes in from the midcourt. Holly Cheyne worked her magic with her strong driving through the centre, and passing to the goalers.
In defence, Jess Murray and Grace Henderson continued to work together in the ring. You'd think they'd been playing together for years, with Grace coming out of the ring to take some strong intercepts and keep the team in the game.
Unfortunately, the girls couldn't pull away from Moe and let them back into the game late in the fourth quarter with some poor passing and decisions on court.
17 and under: Drouin 45 defeated Moe 17
Drouin came out blazing, starting the game off with five goals in a row. They kept pushing the score out each quarter.
The intensity on the court was amazing, with every player going out on the court to perform their hardest. Each role in the court was played, and it was like watching a team that has played together for years.
From one end of the court to the other, the determination and endurance showed by each player was obvious - even on the sidelines.
From here on out, the Hawks aim to maintain their finals position. They will hope to play like they did on Saturday and win the next two.
Awards: Holly Cheyne and Alannah Jagoe.
15 and under: Drouin 21 drew with Moe 21
It was a nail-biter to the end for the Hawks against Moe.
When these two teams last met, Moe won 30-9 to leave the Hawks having a lot to work on.
After dedication and commitment to their training, however, they changed that scoreline to a draw, fighting for every goal in every quarter.
From attack to defence, the Hawks worked tirelessly to win the ball back and convert their turnovers. Sienna Arbon and Mia Trewin clicked into gear and moved seamlessly in the ring. Sienna even put in some long bombs when her team really needed it.
In the midcourt, Bella Tangipo and Jamison Thomas were reliable with the ball and worked together to get great position in the circle. This made for easy feeding to the goalers.
Bella, as always, was the first to every ball and provided intensity for a full four quarters. However, half way through, the captain suffered an injury and Kaylee Norman stepped up to put on the centre bib.
Kaylee provided speed and endurance through the middle, working well with Adah Dennis to put the pressure on the Moe feeders.
Mylie Stoll and Zoe Curtis shone in defence, highting their hard work.
Mylie tagged her player and was the first to get hands on a lot of rebound opportunities. Zoe picked off every loose ball in the defensive third as well as shutting down every goal shooter that came her way.
Overall, the under 15s showed everyone how much hard work they've done in the second half of this season, coming away with the draw after a three-goal difference in the first quarter.
The club stated proud is an understatement, and look forward to seeing what this group can achieve.
Awards: Bella Tangipo, Zoe Curtis and Sienna Arbon.
13 and under: Drouin 24 lost to Moe 36
The Hawks played a great game against Moe. Although they didn't take home the four points, the girls really showed off their hard work and improvement.
The attack end really shone this week. Emmy Kneebone and Sophie Cassidy combined amazingly, creating great angles and drives onto the ring. Their defensive pressure was also impressive, providing many turnovers.
Fiona played a really great game in goals. Her leads onto the ball were strong and she goaled with precision.
Another great game for the girls, and a whole team effort.
Best on: Fiona Nalder, Emmy Kneebone and Sophie Cassidy.

Subscribe to The Warragul and Drouin Gazette to read the full story.