With a few lean seasons for the Saints’ A-grade side in recent times, the club has made a big statement, having recently announced its new playing co-coaches.
In a major signing for the club, the Saints have welcomed Victorian Netball League trio Maddy George, Ruby Tidd and Maddi Wallmeyer for 2027, with the North East Blaze trio set to helm the Saints as they look to shake up the competition next season.
George captained the Blaze’s 23-and-under side last season before graduating to the championship squad in 2026, with the versatile midcourter – who can also go into the defensive circle – set to bring plenty of experience and leadership to the Saints, having progressed through the Blaze pathway from the 19-and-under program, winning the 23-and-under MVP award in 2024.
A 2024 Outer East Premier Division A-grade netball Team of the Year member, as well as an A-grade premiership player with Wandin in 2025, captaining the side and also named her side’s best, George will no doubt help the Saints make an immediate impact next season.
She will be joined at the helm by fellow Blaze export Tidd, with the veteran VNL player boasting more than 150 games of experience at the level, earning a reputation as an elite defender.
With her own netball coaching business, Tidd’s mentorship will help develop the next generation of Benalla netballers, which is equally as invaluable as her skills on court.
Wallmeyer too boasts extensive experience in the VNL, with the Blaze life member having played more than 200 VNL games and has twice been named Division One MVP in 2019 and 2023.
The midcourter is also a five-time players’ player award recipient at the Blaze and, with a focus on development, is a perfect fit for the Saints.
The signings have flowed on the football side of things, too, with the Saints making early moves to bolster their 2027 senior squad.
The headline addition to date is NTFL star Braedon McLean, who brings more than 300 games of experience to Benalla’s line-up.
A glittering career has produced three club best-and-fairests, six NTFL representative appearances, and several Team of the Year selections, renowned as an elite ball user.
McLean, who has spent most of his time in the NTFL with the Wanderers, will compete in the upcoming Top End season before making his way to the Goulburn Valley.
But he won’t be the only one.
The Saints have enlisted the services of AFL South Coast midfielder Sandon Ashworth after producing an excellent season in the NSW competition.
The Shellharbour City gun was involved in the club’s 2026 premiership while also earning a place in the league’s Team of the Year, consistently polling highly in the Suns’ best-and-fairest and known for his wicked turn of pace.
He’ll form a formidable partnership with fellow recruit Hugh Trewin, also signed on after stints with Central Highlands club Beaufort and VAFA Premier Division club Uni Blues.
20°C