Wodonga Raiders' new players to debut in Good Friday clash with Wangaratta

The Raiders have picked up a number of new faces since the 2019 season, with reigning premiers Wangaratta set to be their first test on Good Friday.

Former Albury-Wodonga Bandit Ellie Gleeson is among the new players who had planned to take to the court last season.

She also joins the list of Ovens and Murray netballers who welcomed a child during the year off.

Gleeson, the daughter of former Raiders' Joanne and Dale Gleeson, said family connections led to her arrival at the club, having previously played for North Albury and Albury.

She's also represented Newberry College in South Carolina while playing basketball in the US.

"I loved it," Gleeson said.

"I played netball when I came back in my summer break and it was just a bit of fun when I came home.

"I really enjoy netball so I'm looking forward to getting back into it."

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Hume league recruits Georgia Haines and Meg Smith will also make their debut this weekend after landing at the club from Culcairn.

After playing all of her junior netball with the Lions, Haines said she's looking forward to her first Ovens and Murray season.

"We just wanted a bit of a change and to have a crack at a higher level," Haines said.

"Jodie (House) is a really experienced coach, so it's been helpful having her watch over us."

It's also a homecoming for returned Raider Julia Clarke.

Clarke was last at the club in 2016 and has most recently played for Kangaroo Flat while completing her university studies in Bendigo.

"I think I'm one of the oldest girls in the team now, which I wasn't when I was here last," she said.

"Coming back as one of the more mature players is a bit different and will be a good learning opportunity for me."

Raiders take on the Magpies in a twilight game.

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