Green is a 20-year-old umpire from Noranda Netball Association who has spent the past nine years umpiring the sport she loves.
“I’ve always loved being involved and loved everything about the netball community,” she said.
Through her association, Green has experience in both umpiring and coaching for No Limits Teams.
“I know a lot of people through that space and then a mum of one of the players told me about the Marie Little Shield,” she said.
“I knew straight away that it was exactly something I wanted to do.
“I love getting people involved and supporting them in the sport I love, so I thought it would be perfect.”
After expressing her interest in the Western Swans, Green was offered an invitee coaching role, but it was umpiring that she was most interested in.
She approached the squad over her interest to travel with the team to Brisbane and umpire at the Marie Little Shield. Unfortunately, the team couldn’t fully fund her journey.
“I of course said well I’ll pay for myself if that’s what it takes!”
Impressed with her enthusiasm, Netball WA approached Netball Australia and was able to secure some funding from both organisations as well as a scholarship from her association. She then covered the rest, showing true dedication.
“It’s something that I am so passionate about, and I knew this was another step I could take in encouraging people to be involved in the sport,” she said.
“I would have really done anything to go over.”
For Green, the experience of travelling with the side and umpiring the tournament was above and beyond her expectations.
“The tournament was incredible, everything I could have wanted it to be,” she said.
“The umpires I met over there were all lovely, I was able to build new connections with people from all around Australia.”
After a fantastic performance in the round robin games, Green was voted by her peers to umpire the gold medal match between Queensland and New South Wales.
“I was so excited to umpire that match and to be voted for by my peers was really nice,” she said.
“The atmosphere of the whole competition meant you didn’t feel nervous; everyone wanted you there and appreciated you.”
Reflecting on her favourite moments from the weekend, it wasn’t the gold medal match or the glory, instead spending moments with the Western Swans.
“My favourite parts were probably the breakfasts before we actually went to the games when the team was all together,” she said.
“We would reflect on the days or encourage each other on what was to come. They would ask me umpiring questions and be really interested in what I was doing.
“They’re an amazing team who are so inclusive.”
With a close personal connection to the No Limits program, Green wants to be able to continue using her knowledge to spread her passion.
“The key is getting to know the players because every player is different, you have to have a good understanding of each individual to coach and umpire.
“I would encourage anyone to get involved in the space, it’s an incredible community and everyone is welcome in.
“It was just an opportunity that I am so grateful for because I do think this is my thing, what I am supposed to do.”
