The absolutely extraordinary contribution made by one person to the growth and development of netball in Woodend was spelt out in absorbing detail by three speakers on Saturday evening.
Life membership was bestowed on Kellie Duff, the long-time driving force behind the netball department at Woodend-Hesket Football Club.
While the brand-new $1.39 million netball courts at Gilbert Gordon will be looked on by many as a legacy to Kellie Duff’s work and inspiration (one court is named in her honour) the wider contribution of the Hawks’ newest life member was outlined at the function in the social rooms at Gilbert Gordon Reserve.
Speakers were former club president Anne-Louise Lindner, Lia Sheppard who spent so much time with Kellie in enhancing junior netball, and Paul Podbury, current co-president of WFNC.
“Woodend-Hesket is now a destination club for netballers,” Anne-Louise said, recalling how she had felt years ago that if anyone would make a difference it was Kellie, who had coached, played and organised.
Anne-Louise nominated Kellie for life membership.
The growth of junior netball from humble beginnings in Woodend had been remarkable, with Kellie having coached every team. Instead of being beaten by 70 goals, premierships eventuated.
Lia Sheppard reflected on the work that went into building and rejuvenating junior netball over a number of years.
In 2016, then WFNC president Stuart Braddy committed to upgrading netball.
Kellie joined the senior committee on the proviso netball would be treated equally as football.
Podbury spoke about the extensive time and detail Kellie had put into the club since he joined the committee.
The club has now won the past two A-grade premierships in the Riddell League and is unbeaten this season. Five senior teams play each Saturday.
As head coach, Kellie has ensured the Hawks are more professional overall, and getting new courts was one of her top priorities.
The life membership presentation was warmly applauded.
Responding, Kellie thanked various people, in particular her mother (Anne George) and her extended family.
She also praised the Hawks’ committee for continuing to embrace netball, and her partner Mick Hassett for his ongoing support. They were a real team with the new courts project.
