Broome Netball Association: Broome Bullets secure win at 2024 grand final after dominant season

Broome Bullets capped off a stellar season after emerging victorious over the weekend at the 2024 Broome Netball Association’s grand final, securing the premiership in front of a packed crowd. On September 7 at the Broome Recreation and Aquatic Centre, 12 teams from Division 12U-16U and 1-3 pushed themselves to the limit to take out the title for the highly anticipated grand final. Division 1’s Bullets - who stayed on top of the ladder all season - started strong and maintained their lead against the Pearler’s Old Girls with strong shooting skills and control of the ball. Pearlers kept soldiering on to inch their way in front but were still feeling the effects of the first-quarter lead from Bullets, falling short by eight points with a half-time score of 23 to 31. Pearlers’ Jessica McPherson gave it her all against Bullets’ captain Joanne Johnson, who towered over her opposition and proved unmatched as a goal-shooter. While Bullets shooting was strong and their defence quick, Pearlers didn’t break a sweat and persisted through their score shortcomings. As the game continued on through the second half, Bullets’ Hayley Mott had several impressive intercepts and defence techniques, leading the ball back into the hands of her teammates. Pearlers’ Rebecca Boni didn’t let a shoulder injury stop her from finishing the final game of the season, coming back from having her shoulder strapped to return for the fourth quarter. Despite their efforts, Pearlers could not keep up with this season’s top team and the game closed with a final score of 61 to 51. Bullets captain Joanne Johnson said the team had been working hard all season and the final result was the reward. “It’s been so good... we came and got the win, it was awesome,” she said. “[In preparation,] just working out where we could all do our role and actually go out there and do it as best as we can, especially against an awesome team such as the Pearlers.” Bullets’ Hayley Mott was awarded Most Valuable Player for the 2024 season, with Djugun Flames Sophie Waddington taking home Best and Fairest. Broome Netball Association 2024 Awards Volunteer of the Year Award: Lauren Johnston Service to Sport Award: Simone Eddington Umpire Awards Rising Star Umpire of the Year: Tallara Cook Umpire of the Year: Calli Cook Coach Awards Rising Star Coach of the Year: Sarah Stribling Coach of the Year: Roslyn Butcher