Expanded netball sector 'buzzing' ahead of new PFNL season

An expanded league will see four grades of netball being played out at the Mike Barnett Sports Centre on Sunday, with the introduction of the PFNL's new under 20s competition hoping to create pathways for aspiring young players.

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PFNL netball coordinator Anne Bowey said the league was thrilled to launch its biggest season yet.

"I think it's just exciting to see all the players really keen to get into the season," she said.

"This off-season has been a long one in terms of planning and getting everything ready to launch the new grade, so to see all of our players on the courts in Rockingham is going to be pretty special.

"Everyone's just buzzing at the moment."

The first round of competition will see Baldivis and South Mandurah squaring off, while Halls Head tackles last year's league grand finalists in Pinjarra.

Centrals will have their work cut out for them as they clash with reigning back-to-back premiers Waroona, while Rockingham welcomes the Mandurah Mustangs into their home courts.

As well as trying to bag a win in round one, players will also be out to impress selectors for the league's first ever Netball WA Member Associations Championships team.

The squad will be made up of the PFNL's finest netballers, who will take to the courts at the State Netball Centre for the representative competition in June.

"Having a team in the championships gives players in our local league the chance to play at a higher level, so we're really excited about that," Bowey said.

"Now having a juniors grade and also a representative team, it helps create a pathway for young netballers in our competition."

The first trial for the PFNL's Member Associations Championships side was held on Monday, with the second to follow on Thursday, April 11 from 6.30pm-8.30pm at the Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre.

Players interested are urged to take part in the trial.

For more information visit the Peel Football and Netball League's Facebook page.