The grand final, played before a passionate crowd, was a fitting culmination to a season defined by resilience, skill, and the finest display of sportsmanship the league has to offer, left spectators on the edge of their seats and provided the perfect stage for champions to shine.
From the opening whistle, the stage was set for a battle of the west. The GWS Fury and Penrith Panthers had already established one of the fiercest but fairest rivalries of the season, meeting three times prior with both teams sharing the scoring the same number of goals across the three game.
Each encounter had been a showcase of tactical acumen, athletic excellence and mutual respect.
This final chapter was everything fans could have hoped for. The match ebbed and flowed, each side making bold statements in attack and providing resolute defence.
The Panthers, known for their clinical finishing and unwavering determination, matched Fury’s relentless pace and creative flair at every turn. With momentum surging back and forth, neither team could break away for long.
By half time, GWS Fury had established a narrow advantage, leading 32-28. The sense of anticipation in the arena was palpable, as both teams retreated briefly to regroup and refocus. It was clear that this grand final would be decided not just by skill, but by character and composure under pressure.
The second half was a masterclass in both. The Fury’s shooters showcased their rhythm, working seamlessly with midcourters to break through the Panthers’ disciplined defensive wall. Yet Panthers, true to their name, pounced on every opportunity, capitalising on turnovers and pushing the Fury right to the brink.
With minutes remaining, and scores were close, it was Fury’s cool heads and collective determination that made the difference.
Among the night’s many heroes, Ava Moller rose above as the game’s Most Valuable Player. With ice in her veins and remarkable composure, Moller delivered a shooting performance of precision, sinking goals under the most intense scrutiny.
Her ability to maintain focus and execute with pinpoint accuracy in the dying moments set her apart, inspiring teammates and thrilling the crowd. It was her steady hand and sharp eye that gave the Fury the edge when it mattered most, embodying the poise and confidence that define champions.
Special congratulations must go to the GWS Fury coaches Nardia Trevor and Di Benioni, whose exceptional guidance, tactical insight, and unwavering commitment ensured the team was supremely prepared for this grand final stage.
Their ability to bring out the best in every player was evident in the team's cohesion, adaptability, and mental fortitude throughout the contest.
Beyond the scoreboard, what truly set this grand final apart was the sportsmanship shown by both teams. Each challenge was met with respect, each goal celebrated as a shared achievement for the sport.
The handshakes, embraces, and words exchanged after the game spoke louder than any statistic: this was a competition played hard and fair, and netball in New South Wales is richer for it.
Congratulations once again to the GWS Fury 23U team, and to coaches Nardia Trevor and Di Benioni, on a remarkable season and a well-deserved premiership.
Their victory is not just a triumph for the club, but for the spirit of netball itself—a sport where passion and respect take centre stage, and where the next generation of champions is already shining bright.
For more information on the GWS Fury or Blacktown City Netball Association, and how to get involved, you can contact the association via email at secretary@blacktownnetball.com.au, visit their website at www.blacktownnetball.com.au , or follow them on their Facebook page. Let us all contribute to making netball a remarkable celebration of sport and community spirit.
