The Lake Wendouree Football Netball Club, located in Ballarat City, has a rich history and is known for its success in both football and netball. The club was formed in 1995 through a merge between the former Wendouree Football Club and YCW Football Club.
In its inaugural year, the club reached the final series and continued its success by making two grand finals in 1996 and 1997. The Senior Football Club best and fairest award is named after Peter “Joffa” O'Connell, one of the club's founding members and a key leader during its early years.
Following a period of rebuilding, the club once again demonstrated its presence in the league in 2009 and 2010, with all senior football and netball teams making it to the finals. In 2011, both senior football teams and all netball teams were again finalists, under the guidance of Matthew Battistello who became the club's first Senior premiership Coach.
The most successful year for the club was in 2010, when they clinched the BFL Senior Football premiership and four netball flags, led by legendary Netball Coach Sally McLean. Paul McMahon, a leadingship player that year, also won the Henderson Medal for the league's best and fairest.
The Lake Wendouree Football Netball Club has consistently proven its excellence, winning the Merv and Mary Howard Award for the best club in the Ballarat Football League in various seasons, including 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2008, 2010, and 2011.
In 2015, the club underwent significant upgrades to its facilities, including a new playing surface, two netball courts, and upgraded lighting on the main oval. The following year, new change-rooms were opened for both senior and junior teams, as well as netballers, making the club's facilities one of the best in country football in Australia.
The Lake Wendouree Football Netball Club is proud to be sponsored by Ballarat Leagues Club, which also serves as the ground sponsor. The club's website is sponsored by Mulcahy & Co Marketing, showcasing their commitment to providing the best resources for their members and supporters.
With Season 2021 approaching, the club remains dedicated to keeping its players, supporters, volunteers, and families safe amidst the ongoing challenges posed by Covid-19. The club regularly updates its protocols and restrictions to ensure the well-being of everyone involved. Important measures include staying home and getting tested if feeling unwell, scanning in using the provided Check-in code, practising social distancing, and following good hygiene practises.
Parents and supporters are not to enter the changerooms unless they are on the volunteer roster for cleaning. Safety signs regarding social distancing should be followed, and in the event of a positive case, close contacts will be notified by the club.
The Lake Wendouree Football Netball Club is a community-focused sporting organisation that values success, safety, and the development of its players. With a strong history and top-notch facilities, the club continues to thrive and strive for excellence in both football and netball.