Ovens and Murray Netball League equal record Toni Wilson medallist, Sophie Hanrahan felt the love from everyone at the Roos last Saturday in the game against Yarrawonga, on her 200th A Grade match.
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While outstanding contributor on and off the netball court, Kiara Corkett played another great game in B Grade for her 250th Ovens and Murray game.
“They made the day very special. I felt very lucky to play game 200 alongside my incredible teammates and with the support of my family and close friends on the sidelines,” Sophie said.
“The future is very promising at Corowa; our A Grade is filled with a great mix of local and travelling players both new and experienced.
“We have learned a lot these first few weeks as a brand new team and I'm excited to see where we can go this year.
“Our B and C Grades have had cracker starts to the season, B Grade currently sitting on top of the ladder and C Grade sitting fourth.
“Both grades have a strong local presence and are filled with great quality girls with the right attitudes and who want to keep developing and get better each week.
“Our juniors are being led by Max Harvey, Soph Arnold and Tori Sampson, three legends. They are learning a lot and improving every week.”
Highlights for Sophie include watching the 2019 B Grade win the premiership – “nothing better!”
“That season in itself was incredible for the club. We won the Netball Club championship and had all three senior grades in the grand final,” she said.
“While we didn't get 3/3 premierships that day, the excitement and support we received from the Corowa community was pretty special and something I will always remember.
“Another highlight would be the 2024 season - the reset year.
“No-one expected anything from us and our A Grade was filled with a legendary bunch of girls, we loved our time on court and even more off court.
“We had a cracking bond, grit and resilience, all massive factors as to why we made it to a preliminary final.”
Regarding her toughest opponent, the modest four-time league medallist said, “as a defender, anyone who is under 5ft 8 - too quick and fast”.
“Otherwise, I've always had a tough time on Maddy Allen from Yarrawonga. She is tall, athletic and smart with the ball, also genuinely one of the nicest people you'll ever meet,” Sophie said.
“As a shooter, Kate Rollings (nee Yensch). Also was one of my favourite players to watch, again a strong athlete who read the play brilliantly and was so strong on the body. I learned a lot playing against her.
More of a Daysdale girl in the early days, Sophie played junior netball at CDHBU before coming into town where she went to school.
“Corowa means the world to me,” the 28-year-old said.
“I have met some of my best friends playing at Corowa, although most have moved on, we still have close friendships, and I'll forever be grateful to the club for bringing them into my life.
“My mum (Mary) has always been a huge advocate of doing your part, volunteering and really values community.
“Now I see why people need community and connection. Also, it genuinely brings me so much joy seeing players grow and develop and play competitive sport.
“Everyone in the community has been a great support of mine over the journey and I am forever grateful to my beautiful family and the whole community.”
Club Co-President Rowena Black described Sophie’s achievement as outstanding and a testament to her consistency, dedication and talent.
“To play all 200 games at A Grade level speaks volumes about Sophie’s athleticism, natural ability and competitive drive,” she said.
“She has been a wonderful leader within our club and a role model for younger players through the way she prepares, competes and supports those around her.
“We are incredibly proud of everything she continues to contribute to the Roos both on and off the court.”
Outstanding contributor’s 250th game
From A Grade and B Grade to stepping into C Grade during the recess year when the club needed her, Kiara Corkett’s commitment to the Roos has always been unwavering.
Over 200 of her 250 games have been with Corowa. A respected captain, coach and teammate, the popularly known ‘Keys’ is regarded as a wonderful role model.
She truly cares about her players and teammates, not only as athletes but also for their wellbeing away from the court which is a quality so valued throughout the club according to club co-president Rowena Black.
“Keys is an incredible asset and loved member of our club,” Rowena said.
“Her commitment, leadership and willingness to always put the team first is something our whole Roos’ community admires.
“She genuinely cares for the people around her and has such a positive impact on so many players over the years.”
The co-president also mentioned the support of Mick and the children throughout the journey of the 37-year-old.
“It’s a truly remarkable achievement and one the entire Roos’ family is proud to celebrate,” Rowena said.