Lind caps off big week

Maggie Lind has had a big week. Picture Shawn Smits

Tara Murray

City West Falcons star Maggie Lind has capped off a stunning week by sharing the Victorian Netball League’s top award.

The midcourt star and Geelong Cougars shooter Julia Woolley were named the championship division’s joint best and fairest on Thursday night.

The two players tied on 20 votes across the 11 games that were played before the season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It’s the second time the former teammates have claimed the award, with Lind winning the award in 2016 and Woolley going back-to-back after winning it in 2019.

Both were also named in the championship team of the year. The Falcons, lead by Lind who was captain, finished the shortened season on top of the ladder undefeated.

Lind’s strong form over a number of years was rewarded earlier in the week, signing with Collingwood’s Super Netball League side.

Lind was a training partner for the side this year, making her Super Netball debut in round two and playing in two matches.

Collingwood coach Nicole Richardson said the team is delighted to have Lind on board.

Richardson had seen much of Lind’s development, having been a coach at the Falcons for a number of years.

“Maggie’s call up is a huge credit to her constant effort and commitment. We’re looking forward to seeing where she can take her game at the next level.”

In other VNL awards, star shooter Jane Cook won the hot shot award for the most goals in the championship division.

She joined Lind in team of the year along with young defender Melissa Oloamanu, who made the team in her first season in championship division.

In the under-19 division, Charli Nicol was named in the team of the year.