Taking over from Melanie Starr, Wombwell said the Kangaroos, who finished eighth last year in the Hampden league, might be short of seasoned heads on the court. 

But the return of sisters Rhianne and Kelsey Lewis, who bring over 400 senior games of experience with them, is just what the doctor ordered. 

Wombwell she was “basically classing” Kelsey as a new recruit, given the tall goal-shooter had completed her first pre-season in three years. Rhianne, a defender, is also set to return in 2019 following a season-ending ACL injury last year. 

Wombwell said the pair had an impressive netball resume with premierships at both Hamilton before it merged to create the Kangaroos and the Mininera and District league’s Penshurst – an asset to any club, but particularly hers. 

“We're probably going to be a young open side, so they will be my leaders on the court,” Wombwell said. 

The Hamilton Kangaroos would also be buoyed by the return of Emily Pertzel, who Wombwell said was “training the house down” over the pre-season. 

Wombwell, who is also the acting principal at Narrawong District Primary School, said the two jobs both require getting the best out of her charges.

And in terms of her new netball team, this involved developing strong one-on-one defence as well as another simpler, but equally important goal.

“I just want the girls to enjoy playing netball together and to be there for each other,” she said.