The versatile player said being able to run long-distance races and playing a game of netball were completely different.

"In netball it's certainly hard because you're doing a lot more short bursts of work with not much rest," she said.

"You're really looking for a break.

"In a race like the Surf 'T' Surf you're pacing yourself."

Byrne will make her debut in the Western Regional State League tonight.

"I didn't play in the last one because I had just moved back to Warrnambool from Ouyen when it started, so I missed out," she said.

"I guess it's a good opportunity to play with girls you haven't played with before and also to have someone coaching you who is usually an opponent.

"It's just a good pre-season."

The 28-year-old will miss her first pre-season training with her new club, Allansford, because it coincides with tonight's opening round of state league.

Byrne is crossing to the Cats from South Warrnambool where she last year took out the club's senior best and fairest.

"James, my husband, is coaching Allansford footy club so I thought I would go there and support him in his new role," she said.

"It will be different playing in District league because I've grown up playing at South but it will be good to meet some new people."

Byrne, who impressively is able to have an equal amount of influence whether she plays in goals, defence or the midcourt, will line up for Warrnambool Football Netball Club in state league.

"Growing up at school I was friends with Jess Batt (now O'Connor), so it will be good to finally play together after always playing on opposing teams," she said.

Netball will be part of her job this year as the Emmanuel College teacher will take charge of two of the school's netball academies.

Byrne's side takes on state league reigning premier Colac and District tonight.

In round five she will get a sneak peek of some of her opponents in the upcoming regular season as the Blues clash with Warrnambool and District Football Netball League.