Following an extraordinary annual general meeting at the Muswellbrook and District Workers Club this month, a fresh-looking committee will guide the organisation into the 2019 season.

Stepping into the president’s role is Louise Martin, who’ll be backed by Sheryl Folpp (vice-president), Karlie Norman (secretary), Tina Bowditch (treasurer), Virginia Chapman (rep convenor), Kristy Roach (umpires convenor), Ian Richards (registrar), Kelly Constable (carnival convenor), Margaret Whitehead (canteen convenor), Rachael Crossley (draw secretary/recorder) and Charmaine Gill (coaching convenor), as well as executive members Carly Patterson, Constable and Ian Ingle.

“It was a relief to see some keen people stand for positions to ensure there’d be a netball competition running again for all the girls in the area,” Martin said.

“For a few, like Karlie, Ian and Carly, it’s their first time on board.

“It’s certainly a good mix of enthusiasm and experience.

“We should have a lot of fun.

“A special thanks goes to the committee members – Jackie Dever, Catherine Reynolds, Jodie Warburton and Kim Bray – who did not seek re-election but through their tireless efforts over a number of years, and especially 2018, kept the association going. 

“I’m really looking forward to next season.”

Martin admitted there were a lot of things in the pipeline leading into 2019.

“I believe it’s an exciting time for Muswellbrook netball,” she said.

“Our court upgrade at Karoola Park is due, while we want to boost our playing numbers, too.

“We’re also hoping to field an open representative team.

“We definitely have the players who are keen – we just need a coach to mentor them.

“Some of our younger [rep] sides are already training, which is great to see.” 

Coaches have been appointed for most squads, with Patterson overseeing the 12s, Jody Meissner the 13s, Sally Comerford the 14s, Ingle the 15s and Sarah Southcombe the 17s.

“The rep teams are almost chosen for 2019 in the following age divisions – 11 years, 12 years, 13 years, 14 years, 15 years, 17 years and, possibly, opens,” Martin said.

“We’re anticipating naming an 11’s coach soon, too.”