A Huge Day of Growth, Team Spirit and Netball for Narrikup

Narrikup Netball Club enjoyed an action‑packed and rewarding day at the 2026 Set & Go Carnival in Kojonup, where 18 of our D Grade players took to the courts alongside 12 other teams from across the region. With structured warm‑ups, rapid round‑robin games and a vibrant, supportive atmosphere, the carnival offered an invaluable early‑season experience for our young players.

The Kojonup Netball Association welcomed everyone warmly, providing excellent facilities, a bustling canteen filled with home‑baked treats, a BBQ and the all‑important coffee van. Teams from Dumbleyung, Katanning, Kojonup, Narrikup and Ongerup arrived with glitter, ribbons, fancy dress and plenty of excitement, setting the tone for a big day of netball and fun.

Players began with a seven‑station warm‑up session led by KNA volunteers, focusing on footwork, passing, agility, jogging and strength. From there, Narrikup’s Set and Go teams launched into ten games each, with seven‑minute halves and position rotations every half. Every player had the chance to try all positions on the court, and in the final two games the Go team even got to request their favourite positions, giving them a boost of energy to finish strong.

Jody captured the spirit of the day perfectly, saying “WOW what a big day full of netball!” Narrikup Set played eight of their games against Ongerup, Kojonup, Dumbleyung and Katanning, and for many players it was only their second day of competitive netball after playing their first-ever games just two days earlier. With no subs, the team relied on a “super‑sub cheerleader” to keep spirits high, and the upside was that every player enjoyed a full game in the same position to consolidate their learning.

Across both divisions, Narrikup players displayed excellent skills,  strong footwork, defensive pressure, hands over the ball, intercepts, loose‑ball chases and plenty of goals. The competition was well matched, and the teams walked away with several wins. Jody said she was incredibly proud of the group, noting that “the difference in the play down the court from the start of the day to the end showed really great improvement and skills on display.”

The carnival also provided a wonderful opportunity for team building. Players supported each other with chanting, cheerleading and celebrating great intercepts and goals. “Give me an N… Give me an A…” and “1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Go Narrikup!” echoed across the courts, complete with red pom poms. The Go team supported the Set team during their bye, cheering loudly from the sidelines and encouraging teammates who needed breaks.

Sportsmanship was a standout feature of the day. With no scores kept, the focus remained on fairness, respect and enjoyment. Teams congratulated each other with handshakes, circles and warm acknowledgements of umpires and coaches. For many of our players who are new to netball, the carnival was a brave step forward, and their confidence, game knowledge and skill grew rapidly with each game.

Sarah said a highlight of the day was Jaelyn receiving the Star Shooter Award, presented with Perth Fever merchandise and a big cheer from her teammates. Every player and official also received a Certificate of Participation recognising their outstanding involvement in the NetSetGo program.

Both Sarah and Jody expressed their appreciation to the volunteers who made the day possible; including Mel, Jodi, Mickey, Erin and Tracey for organising, coaching and umpiring. Their efforts ensured our players had a positive, well‑supported and memorable experience.

The growth in confidence, skill, teamwork and friendship throughout the day made the 2026 Set & Go Carnival a truly worthwhile early‑season event, and one the club is already looking forward to again in 2027.

Sarah and Jody