After 14 years of coaching at Narre Warren, Michelle Mashado is excited for a new opportunity at Mornington as head coach of the netball program.
Mashado is a life member, hall of famer and a much-loved figure at Kalora Park and will continue to support the club from afar, while serving her Mornington and Casey netball commitments.
Mashado has a brilliant coaching CV and has tasted the ultimate success, also receiving higher honours throughout her time at the club.
The new opportunity presented itself after a strong year with Narre Warren which saw the A1 netball side make a preliminary final after coming across to the Southern League.
Mashado said it was a really tough decision, but felt it was the right move for her coaching future.
“With the league (Southern) not disclosing what the netball format would look like for 2026, there was a real sense of uncertainty about what was ahead,” she said.
“Mornington were very professional, incredibly patient and very genuine when they approached me.
“It started with an informal phone call, which was followed up by a few more phone calls once the season was finished.”
A new direction and challenge
Mashado is a Narre Warren person and will always have deep love and care for the club but sensed a new challenge would be beneficial for her coaching.
“What appealed most wasn’t anything to do with money – anyone who knows me knows that’s the furthest thing from my motivation,” she said.
“It was about a new challenge, a fresh environment and bringing a different perspective to my coaching.
“It felt like the right time to step outside my comfort zone and grow as a coach.”
Mashado said that there were lots of “mixed emotions” about the new opportunity, adding that it was “bittersweet”.
“There’s been plenty of tears about leaving Narre because it’s been such a big part of my life for so long, and the people there mean so much to me,” she said.
“But at the same time, I’m really excited about the new challenges ahead and what’s to come at Mornington.
“I wish Narre all the very best. I know the club will continue to go from strength to strength, so stay on board and keep supporting the black and white.”
A lifetime at Narre Warren
Not only has Mashado coached at Narre Warren for the past 14 years, but she has been an active member of the club for more than four decades.
“The club will always be a place I can call home, I’ve been part of Narre since I was 18, originally coming down to support my husband Dean,” she said.
“Over the years, we’ve watched all seven of our children take either the court or the field in the black and white.”
Mashado’s coaching first began in the junior ranks, working her way up to the seniors to become one of the most highly regarded coaches in the region.
Developing young talent at Casey in the Victorian Netball League has also been a huge part of her coaching experience, thanking the club and association for all they’d done for her.
“I actually started my coaching journey at Narre with my good friend Sue, we had to do an interview that felt like we were applying to coach the Vixens,” she said.
“I came in as a fresh new coach with some crazy ideas, but I’ve loved every minute of it … I’ve loved every team I’ve coached in the black and white.
“Between Narre and Casey, I’ve been surrounded by incredible people who have helped shape me into the coach and person I am today, and for that, I’ll always be thankful.”
Watching the club’s culture continue to grow and making many lifelong friends are the most special parts of her tenure at the Magpies.
“I’ve always tried to bring fresh ideas and be a bit innovative and creative with my approach as a coach and committee member,” Mashado said.
“For me, it’s never just been about winning premierships, it’s been about playing the game with that fun feeling and the lifelong friendships and relationships built along the way – that’s the most rewarding part.”
Final season at the helm
Mashado said she was pleased with the way the team performed throughout this year, to finish second on the ladder with a 12-3 record.
“I honestly think we played some outstanding netball … I couldn’t be prouder of the group, every single one of them gave it their all – it was a season I’ll always remember,” she said.
Chelsea Tonna and Gabrielle Dwyer played for Mashado in the Under-13s the first time she ever coached, and they were also out on the court in the final game she coached.
Mashado thanked all of the club presidents both past and present, as well as the hardworking committees over the years.
“To the Narre families, I’ve truly valued my time and the incredible friendships that have come from my 40 years being affiliated with the club,” she said.
“A special mention to all of the athletes who have supported me through my journey – you all hold such special memories in my heart.
“And to Kimmy T, my person at the club, thank you for always being there.”
