North Albury has received a major boost with a two-time Toni Wilson Medallist returning to the club.
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Emily Browne is set to rejoin the Ovens and Murray league's netball competition as a Hopper for the 2021 season.
It's been three years since the skilled midcourt player was last at the club, having spent recent seasons as Rutherglen's A-grade playing coach in the Tallangatta and District league.
After a forced year away from the game due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Browne said the time felt right to reunite with the Hoppers.
"I've had my couple of years away and enjoyed it and thought it was time to go back," she said.
"The last couple of years I've thought about it, but I wasn't ready.
"I think the year off probably helped and I'm keen to get back into it."
Browne was crowned Tallangatta Netball Association's best and fairest player in 2019 after a standout season with the Cats.
She also took out the O and M's highest netball honour in 2017 in her last season with the Hoppers, after earning her first Toni Wilson medal in 2012 as a Panther.
Browne returns to North Albury alongside Rutherglen teammate and defender Jamie Sandilands.
Sandilands also previously played with the Hoppers before making the move to the Tallangatta and District league.
While there are still some familiar faces around the club, Browne admitted the side has changed since she was last there.
"A few of them are still running around and a couple have retired now," she said.
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"The girls who were in under-16s when I was there last are now playing A-grade.
"North Albury has always been really good at bringing those young players through."
Browne said she had enjoyed the challenge of coaching at a senior level over the last three years.
"I loved it, especially coaching with my mum," she said.
"Rutherglen was such a good club to coach and they were so welcoming and helpful.
"I struggled a bit with playing and coaching at the same time, but I think that comes naturally with doing it more often.
"It was a different learning experience."
North Albury have commenced preseason training and will meet Myrtleford in round one for a Sunday twilight game.
"I'm very excited to get back on the court," Browne said.
