Sport

Shepparton star receives Vic All Abilities State Team call-up for Marie Little Shield

By Thomas Beattie

Aug 10, 2026

Shepparton's Grace Dean will represent Victoria at the Marie Little Shield 2026. Photo by Grant Treeby

Shepparton Netball Association’s Grace Dean has been named as part of the 2026 Victorian All Abilities State Team development squad for the upcoming Marie Little Shield.

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The Marie Little Shield has provided athletes with an intellectual disability the opportunity to compete at a national level since 2013.

Named after Sport Inclusion Australia founder Marie Little OAM, the tournament celebrates inclusion, representation and high-performance competition.

Since 2024, the competition has featured teams from every state and territory in a round-robin format to determine the national champions.

The tournament will be played at Narrandjeri Stadium in Thornbury, giving Victoria the chance to compete for the title on home soil as they look to win the competition for the first time in three years.

Victoria enters the 2026 tournament amongst the favourites, having won the Marie Little Shield in 2023 before finishing runners-up to New South Wales in both 2024 and 2025.

Amongst those named in the Team Victoria development squad is the Goulburn Valley’s Dean, who has appeared at previous editions of the annual tournament.

This year’s squad brings together athletes from associations across Victoria, with Emma Daffy named captain and Jessica McCulloch appointed vice-captain as the team aims to go one better in front of a home crowd.

The team will be led by head coach Naomi Linossier, supported by assistant coach Angela Jeffery and team manager Dee Wardrop.

Netball Victoria Pathways Manager Caitlyn DeGaris said the team announcement reflected the strength of Victoria’s inclusive netball pathway.

“We’re incredibly proud of this team and grateful for the opportunity to support and elevate athletes of all abilities,” DeGaris said.

“Programs like the Marie Little Shield are vital in building an inclusive sporting culture that reflects the true strength and diversity of our netball community.”

Linossier said the group had embraced its preparation and the opportunity to represent Victoria at home.

“It is an incredible honour to continue coaching this team,” Linossier said.

“This group has shown strong connection, resilience and pride throughout its preparation, and hosting the tournament in Melbourne gives the athletes an extra level of excitement as they prepare to play in front of a home crowd.”