Emily Browne receives best and fairest honours with North Albury

Browne (40 votes) edged out defender Jamie Sandilands (25) at the club's presentation night on Friday after starring in her return to Ovens and Murray netball this season.

The talented midcourt player is now bracing herself for her next challenge as she takes to the helm of the Hoppers' A-grade side.

But the 25-year-old admits it's shaped up as the perfect time to transition into the coaching role.

"I always thought that I'd hopefully get there one day and the opportunity just arose now," Browne said.

"With Fi (Fiona Boyer) still being at the club, I thought it was a good time especially to have her there mentoring me.

"Her knowledge and experience is just phenomenal, so I'd be silly not to."

While this marked her second season with North Albury, Browne has had the guidance of Hopper stalwarts Boyer and Paula Cary since day one.

"When I first came to Albury her (Boyer) and Cary were on the panel of selectors for the Albury Netball Association, and that's where it all kicked-off," Browne said.

"Back then they gave me a chance and they have been a part of my whole career really.

"It's really nice to have familiar faces to come back to and learn what I can off them."

Browne is now looking forward to offering young players the same guidance she received when she was finding her feet on the court.

"I was obviously given a few chances and the right guidance when I was young, and I think to get the best out of netballers, the younger they get that coaching the better," she said.

"North Albury do it so well in that they give their young girls the ability to push through the grades, and if they're willing to put their hand up then they're given the chance.

"I'm just so thankful for the opportunity."

North Albury finished the shortened home and away season in eighth spot with three wins.

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The club is hosting their under-17 trials on Tuesday, November 30 and Thursday, December 2.

All other netball grades will meet on December 6 and 9, with Browne hoping to see some familiar and new faces.

"Any girls from last year coming back will be welcomed with open arms," she said.

"They're such a fun bunch of girls, but when it's time to get down to business they definitely put their heads down."

Natalie Heagney finished third in the A-grade club vote count, after also claiming the Ovens and Murray league's Rising Star Award.

Heagney's sister Breanna claimed the Hoppers' B-grade best and fairest award from runner-up Alana Wilson.

Daisy Eitler was the winner in C-grade, edging out Ella Trevaskis in a close count.

The under-17s trophy went to Audrey Adams, with Kate Evans following.

While next year will be Browne's first as a senior O an M coach, she's previously gained experienced at the helm of Rutherglen in the TDNA competition.

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