The 2024-2025 season begun with its fair share of challenges for Dorset All Stars netball club. From navigating team changes and coach absences, it was a tough opening to the year. However, thanks to resilience, commitment, and a strong sense of community in our club, we have not only bounced back- we are thriving.

Results.
The difficulties we faced are not reflected in our results, with the club growing rapidly, and our success across multiple age categories at various leagues.
To highlight a few:

U11 Osprey's won Blue Jays Tournament
U13 Buzzards won Salisbury Junior League and Tournament
U14 Hawks won Salisbury Junior League Tournament
U15 Eagles finished 2nd in Regional Division 3, playing up an age category.
U16 Harriers placed 2nd in Salisbury Junior League

While the results we achieved as a netball club speak volumes about the dedication and effort from the coaches, players, parents, and volunteers, it's crucial to highlight other success in the club. One of the greatest successes of DAS is the level of teamwork, unity, inclusivity and strong culture we have as a club.

Growth On and Off the Court.
This season, Dorset All Stars has expanded its focus beyond just matches. Players across some age groups are benefiting from newly introduced Strength and Conditioning sessions, helping to prevent injury, build athleticism and improve overall performance.
We have also introduced different training nights so our performance squads can experience high quality sessions, that are indoors. This enables each player, no matter their level of play, to have a coaches focus, and build rapport as a team.

As we continue to grow and evolve as a club, we're excited to see our younger players stepping up and getting involved in new ways. Whether it's mentoring newer players, assisting at training sessions, or taking on leadership roles, it's wonderful to see them contribute to the club's success and be apart of building the future of our team.

Learning from the Best
I think a real highlight of the season for all involved will be the opportunity to learn from England Roses star Natalie Metcalf, where she will deliver inspiring coaching masterclasses for our players. This is a wonderful opportunity for our club.
In addition, we have an excellent opportunity for our aspiring umpires to experience an umpiring masterclass to help grow their knowledge, and put this into practice.

What's next for our club?
With newly appointed committee and Head Coach, we are excited for the future of Dorset All Stars. We are thrilled to unveil our new team names and kit! These reflect the growth and evolution of our club, and we believe they will bring fresh energy and sense of pride to everyone involved.
We have some huge plans lined up for the remainder of this season, for friendlies and training. But we're also already looking ahead to next season, where we'll be taking on more league matches and friendly games.

As we reflect on this year, we've seen so much growth, both on and off the court, and we're proud of everything we have accomplished. It's been a season to remember, and we're only just getting started!