Players and support staff from both Shepparton United and the Shepparton Swans paused to remember former Demons player Caitlin Ross.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
The Goulburn Murray Women and Girls season kicked off at the weekend, but the match between Shepparton United and Shepparton Swans took on significance beyond the final score.
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The Swans took to the Deakin Reserve surface in a historic first, with playing coach Di Poole leading the club out for its maiden foray into senior women’s football.
But one of their first acts had nothing to do with the Sherrin, instead joining their Demons counterparts as the home side paused for one of its lost members.
Players from both clubs formed a circle pre-game in remembrance of one of Shepparton United’s inaugural players, Caitlin Ross, who passed away in August last year.
Described as a ‘vibrant spirit’ by the club at the time of her passing, Ross was a key member of United’s first women’s squad in 2022 and its first grand final team in 2023, but her presence off the field also earned reflection in a poignant ceremony.
And it’s a legacy that will endure, with a newly established club award in her honour.
“[Caitlin] was well-loved and respected throughout the United family and the women’s team,” Demons coach Grant Searle said.
“We spoke about her [pre-game] and everyone took their boots off in respect.
“We’ve retired her number and instilled what’s called the ‘Keep it Groovy’ award.
“That was one of her big sayings – keep it groovy. It’s for someone who brings a lot of fun and enjoyment around the club, is a club person, and everyone enjoys being around them.”
Already having plenty to play for, the reigning premiers opened the 2026 season with a resounding win.
The Demons notched a 138-point result first-up, with Paige Baksh booting six goals and Payten Johnson five.
Maya Ingham and Tailah Rennie also earned plaudits from the coaches and while it was a tough first outing for the Swans, they’ll be buoyed by the performances of Tiarne Lock, Bree Bell, and Irish Anderson as they aim to build upwards.
Meanwhile, a dominant third quarter from Rumbalara earned it a come-from-behind win against Nathalia.
Trailing by three points at half-time, Rumba booted four goals while keeping the Purples scoreless to build a 21-point lead at the final break.
Nathalia staged a late comeback but to no avail, with Rumbalara notching a 6.6 (42) to 5.0 (30) victory.
Perennial goal kicker Abby Favaro slotted four goals, but her influence was cancelled out by three majors from Marlee Gunderson, while Ellie Armstrong, Tammy-Lee Atkinson, and Kady Harrison provided multiple avenues to goal.
Out at Scott Oval, Moama’s inaugural women’s team tasted success immediately with a seven-point win over Cobram.
Tori Russell, Sophie Callahan, Rhiannon Severino spearheaded the Pies’ maiden victory, while Lily Hillman and Ruby McLeod were the sole goal kickers for the visitors.
Under Friday night lights at Mansfield, the Eagles picked up a 49-point win over Tatura to kick off their campaign in fine form.
Shepparton Swans youth girls notched a four-point win over United in round one, while Moama streaked away to an 83-point win over Cobram.
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