The Panther's best result came in round five - a draw with Pimpinio - but it was the competitive nature of some of their other performances that has Woods feeling optimistic ahead of 2022.

"I think we've played really well against the top sides, which is really pleasing with the team that we have this year," Woods said.

"Having last year off, it was a pretty well a new team and I think we contested really well against teams that we haven't in the past like Harrow.

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"We didn't have any expectations and we've come out and gave every game our best shot and I think that's all we can ask for."

Against Harrow-Balmoral in round two the Panthers pushed the Roos all the way, only going down by ten points. They also came mighty close to defeating Kalkee in round six, losing by just the six points.

"A few teams complimented us on our games and were a bit shocked," Woods said.

"Especially the first game against Natimuk and Kalkee and Harrow."

On-court the Panthers' coach highlighted the work of the side's young brigade.

"Gemma Morgan and Emma Downes, they've just been really solid all year and they're the future of the club," she said.

"Even Jess Dunlop stepping up as goal shooter in A Grade. It's her first season in A Grade, so that was promising."

Injuries amongst football and netballers have been rife this year, but fortunately, the Panthers weren't too adversely affected during their campaign.

"We've had a similar team all year," Woods said.

"We have had a few fill-ins so I think we haven't had any major injuries apart from my co-coach Emily Hurley who did an ankle.

"That was unfortunate but it's mostly a young team so they've gone quite well."

Looking to 2022, Woods said the side will look to "recruit early".

"We'll look to gel with the team much sooner in the season and get the few wins on the board that we didn't get this year," she said.

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