The Goulburn Valley League outfit came into 2024 harbouring ambitions of a knockout berth, but fell three games short in wrapping up its campaign in eighth with a 7-11 record.
Neither of the Demons’ 2024 co-coaches, Laura Cole or Erynn Hueston, are returning to the fold next year, but they haven’t rested on their laurels in appointing a replacement.
Much like United’s footballing operations, which recently confirmed Jesse Cucinotta would move up to coach alongside the incoming Trent Freer, the A-graders have also promoted from within.
Shinea Sali will now take top responsibilities as the Demons look to improve on their 2024 showing.
It’s safe to say a leader full of motivation arrives in the process.
“I came over to United last season and mentioned that, eventually, I’d like to be an A-grade coach when the time was right,” Sali said.
“The club told me it was right and asked if I was interested. I had a great season under Laura and I’ve done all my accreditation, so I went through the interview process.
“That’s probably one of my strengths is that I like leading and it’s something I thrive on.
“I’ve seen that growing up with my dad and a sporting team needs that to lead them and I do think having that one force will be a benefit.”
It certainly seems a trend-bucking appointment, given clubs across the region are embracing co-coaching across football and netball far more rapidly then they are moving away from it.
That said, though, the new role will give Sali the chance to mould the team’s play and the environment within the squad to her tastes.
She’s more than keen to get to work on that front.
“I’m going to be on the recruiting bandwagon looking for more key players,” Sali said.
“Laura’s a big loss and Grace (McInneny) is set to move away.
“I want to recreate bringing back a team culture that we might have lacked this season and bring a different vibe.
“My own aim is to get even fitter than I was this season and I’m super excited to take on the role.
“I’d love to be a finals contender, so it’s all guns blazing now to make that happen.”
As for the departed former United leaders, by no means is all lost.
Nathalia unveiled Cole as a huge statement signing to try and challenge in the Murray competition, where she will play under the recently recommitted coaching duo of Tracey Brereton and Kara Blizzard in a fear-inspiring combination.
Meanwhile, Hueston returns to her familiar digs at Shepparton East in Kyabram District League, having famously steered the Eagles to an undefeated premiership campaign in 2023.
She takes over from Bianca Kelly as co-coach of the blue and gold outfit with Kate Durling set to go around again next season.
Violet Town made its move in confirming the makeup of its netball coaching staff for season 2025 as well, installing Jessie Kipping as A-grade boss in place of Maggie Hamill, who now moves to coach the Towners’ B-grade and C-grade sides.
