Goaling dynamo Jessie Barnes-Hill has returned to the courts with a vengeance, reminding observers and opponents alike of her fearsome quality in the circle as part of a dominant Rumbalara side.
This year’s Murray Netball League has been defined by Rumbalara’s charging run through the A-grade division, conquering Saturday’s grand final opponent, Moama, all three times they’ve come face-to-face this year.
With an A-grade best and fairest award now in her pocket after last weekend’s count, Barnes-Hill took time to assess her return to the courts after taking time away to have a child.
“I really had no expectations on myself this year coming back from having a baby, knowing all the challenges that brings,” Barnes-Hill said.
“Stepping into this team, we’ve got some mad talent and we complement each other and lift each other up.
“It’s great to be recognised for the hard work individually, but it’s a reflection of what the team has been capable of.
“It probably only gives confidence (for the grand final) on a small scale, honestly; I get confidence from walking out with our team and being led by Jess Bamblett.”
Barnes-Hill paid glowing tribute to her coach along the way, highlighting the adversity that Bamblett had faced and overcome and what an inspiration her journey served as.
“There’s no shadow of a doubt that Jess is an amazing sportsperson,” Barnes-Hill said.
“She pretty much dominates across anything she does, so it’s cool to have her as a coach and a teammate.
“To juggle those commitments with being a mum of three amazing girls, she’s a strong and confident woman, so why wouldn’t you be inspired by that?
“What she and her family have gone through this year, for her to show up and be committed to this is something most people wouldn’t be able to do; she’s pretty unique.”
Looking ahead to Saturday, the Rumba ace recognises Moama’s threat, with the second-placed Magpies serving as the closest threat throughout the entire year, more or less.
Though her Shepparton-based side has a 17-goal victory over the black and white to its name in 2024, the contests have never felt like a demolition in the eyes of Barnes-Hill — and she expects no different on Saturday in their territory.
“They were definitely one of the best sides we’ve come up against,” Barnes-Hill said.
“There are a lot of really tough teams with tough defensive ends in the comp.
“Moama’s got some good connections and they’re quite efficient, so they’ve had a good year as well.
“The club behind us gives us the confidence we need to do the job we have to, and hopefully that gets us over the line.
“I just love this team.”
