Sport
2 May, 2025
Noonan shines at nationals
CAMPERDOWN netball product Jake Noonan and his Victorian teammates have made it back to back open men’s national titles at the Australian Men’s and Mixed Netball championships.
In an epic grand final at Melbourne’s State Netball and Hockey Centre, Victoria defeated New South Wales 44-42.
“It was the perfect ending, New South Wales are really strong and are full of Australian representatives,” an elated Noonan said.
“Back to back is pretty rare in open division, which made the win even more special.”
Down by three goals with just minutes left, Noonan said he remembers thinking that it was going to be hard to win at that point.
“We managed to stop their scoring, claw our way back in front then keep possession at the end.
“Our defence was incredible.”
Victoria won four out of five games in the preliminary rounds, losing only to New South Wales by three goals.
The result was reversed in the semi- final, Victoria defeating New South Wales by two goals.
“It was a tight contest all three times we played them (New South Wales), it makes the win even sweeter against such high quality opposition.”
Noonan, a mid-courter, praised the work of head coach Gerard Murphy, who has implemented and overseen the team’s strength and conditioning program.
“The squad is definitely a lot fitter, and well looked after between games.
“To win a home national championship was a lot more emotional (2024 was held in Brisbane).
“The State Netball and Hockey Centre was incredible to play at, very central and fantastic for my family and friends who travelled up from Camperdown.”
For the time being, Noonan will give his body a break.
He will continue with his coaching role at Victorian Netball league club North East Blaze, but is unlikely to play again until August.
But the fire still burns.
“I'm pretty keen to put myself forward again to try for the three-peat in 2026,” he said.
Read More: Camperdown