Over at the Lake Wendouree Lakers, this is not the case. The club prides itself on their ability to retain players and build strong relationships between them.

Now, after 16 seasons with the Lakers, one of their club legends, Kara Hart, will surpass a milestone not reached by many others.

Lake Wendouree's round one clash with fellow finalists from 2018 East Point will mark Hart's 300^th senior game for the club. Speaking with The Courier, Hart admitted the milestone took her by surprise.

"I guess I knew it would come eventually," she laughed.

"When I actually found out a few days ago... I guess I was just really pleased to be honest, I love being a Laker."

As a member of Lake Wendouree, Hart has enjoyed terrific success. She played in three of the Lakers four consecutive premierships between 2007 and 2010 before winning a fourth premiership in 2012.

Looking back on her time with the club, while the premierships rank high on her fondest memories, the friendships she made with the club sit a touch higher.

"The great close bonds that I've formed with this club are ones that I will never forget," Hart said.

Perhaps closer than any relationship Hart has made at the club with with former coach and netballing legend Sally McLean.

McLean, who was often referred to as Ballarat Football Netball League's 'first lady' had a tremendous impact on Hart both a netballer and a person.

"She was someone who had a massive effect on my life," Hart said.

"She gave me and tough me so much - I'll never forget her and the bond we had together."

Hart took up a coaching role within the club because of McLean. She said McLean had given her so much she wanted to return the favour and hopefully help some young netballers like McLean helped her.

An avid sportswoman, when the opportunity to play football for the Lakers arose, Hart jumped at the opportunity despite the physical impact playing both sports had on both her time and her body.

"It was certainly difficult," she said.

"It took up so much time and energy, I need to give a massive thanks to my fiance for being so supportive while I played."

Looking forward, retirement remains a while away for the 34-year-old.

"I'll keep playing until it's not fun anymore - I still love my netball and want time win another premiership."

ROUND ONE FIXTURE:

Darley v Sunbury Darley Park

2:30PM: East Point v Lake Wendouree - Eastern Oval

2:30PM: Melton South v Melton - Melton Recreation

2:30PM: North Ballarat City v Bacchus Marsh - Mars Stadium

5:15PM: Sebastopol v Ballarat - Marty Busch Reserve

Redan - Bye