The reigning Hampden league open grade netball premiers have celebrated their maiden flag and now the coach says it’s time to move on and focus their energies on the new year.

“Obviously we’ll enjoy unveiling the flag in the first round, but I think we’re just focused on the season (ahead),” Titmus said.

“We haven’t really talked about it (the premiership) much; as far as I’m concerned, it’s a clean slate.”

While history will count for little for the Seagulls, some things will carry over from a successful first year under Titmus. Namely, the high standards set by the professional outfit.

“Everyone expects excellence – every open grade team does,” Titmus said.

“We just have the same expectations as everyone else. (We want to see) great team play, great court skills.”

The Seagulls will continue to operate with a senior squad, rather than a set starting seven, as they look to capitalise on the versatility of their playing group.

The move, aimed to give the Seagulls options, as well as create opportunities for players coming up the ranks, creates healthy competition for spots in the top grade.

“It gives the ones in the lower divisions a chance to experience higher netball as well, and have a bit of motivation,” Titmus said.

“My team of eight (any given week) is a team of eight; they’re all capable of performing when needed.”

The Seagulls will look to build on their impressive offence and defence from last year. They were the tightest defensive team, letting through just 38 goals a game on average, and also the second-highest scoring team, averaging 47 goals.

Arrivals

Laura Lafferty (North Warrnambool Eagles)

Departures

Sarah McCorkell (pregnant), Emma Sommerville

2016 best and fairest

1st: Carly Watson

2nd: Carley Thomas

3rd: Emily Forrest

Player to watch

LAURA LAFFERTY: The talented former North Warrnambool Eagle has joined the Gardens Oval club for 2017 and shapes as another versatile inclusion on the list. Lafferty played predominantly played at wing defence for her former club, but has played centre and wing attack in state league and representative games, and could also slot into a goal attack position. Her athleticism is a real standout and means she can create headaches for opponents wherever she is placed on the court.

Prediction

Susie Giese says: It is impossible to see this group taking a backwards step. The players are well drilled and professional, and well-respected coach Megan Titmus has been a perfect fit at the club. The Seagulls may have taken a long time to win their first top-grade flag, but a second might not be too far away. They will be well in the mix come the pointy end of the season if they can stay true to their own high standards.