Bec first stepped onto a State League court in 2011 as a 15-year-old in Year 10, donning a red Demons dress she would go on to represent for the next 13 years.
An old-school WANL pathway kid, Bec started in the 18/U division before moving into reserves for a number of years, eventually earning her spot in the Open division more than a decade ago.
“I grew up at SDNA with the Southside Demons. I think it was actually Sparks back then,” she said.
“It was my home. I knew everyone, everyone knew me. And I had the likes of Caitlin Bassett above me, and having those role models was amazing.”
After a 13-year stint at the Southside Demons, Bec made the move to Peel Lightning for an exciting new chapter.
“I was sad to leave the Demons. However, moving to Peel allowed me to see how different clubs work and operate, and I got to play with some close friends, which is exactly what I needed at the end of my career,” she said.
The longevity of Bec’s career has meant she has been able to play alongside, and against, some of the game’s household names, a highlight when looking back.
“A highlight was probably getting to play with the likes of Nat Medhurst, Kelsey Brown and Chelsea Pitman,” she said.
“I think I got to sit on the bench and watch a grand final with Courtney Bruce or Caitlin Bassett when they played for Demons a long time ago. Having players of that calibre come down, and getting to play against them, you just learn so much.”
For Bec, playing for so long has meant she has seen many different iterations of the WA Netball League, and she is proud of the competition’s growing professionalism.
“I think seeing the change from association-affiliated clubs to more of a franchise model has been huge,” she said.
“Clubs actually had to put a business plan together. My mum was part of the Demons’ business plan, and they had to get lawyers involved.
“So much work went into those clubs that applied for that franchise. To see that professionalism go through the ranks was a really big step up for netball.”
That passion for the improvement of the game runs from Bec’s mother to Bec herself, with the long-time athlete hoping to see the State League continue to grow for those who work so hard to be part of it.
The support of family and friends is crucial to a WANL player, with Bec crediting her parents, who despite her being an adult, have still come to 90 per cent of her games over the years.
“I’ve been very lucky and privileged that my parents are very supportive,” she said.
After 16 years, it is time for Bec to look back and reflect on a wonderful State League career.
“I’m a full-time teacher now, so that’s a lot of work. This will mean more of my own time, and more time with family and friends.”
“I’ve been super proud of the commitment that I’ve shown to netball, and to WANL, and seeing it progress every year. It’s been amazing, and I just really want to see that competition keep getting better and more competitive.”
Thank you Bec, for your outstanding contribution to the game, the legacy you leave will no doubt remain for a long time.
