By DAVID NAGEL
SHARING the vast range of knowledge that exists in the Two Bays Netball Region is the key to development, according to newly-appointed regional liaison officer Lauren Bourke.
The Berwick Netball Club president and under-13’s coach was this week appointed to a role by Netball Victoria that will see her front and centre in bringing a hub of ideas together to grow an already hugely popular sport.
The broad spectrum of the Two Bays region, which includes the Mornington Peninsula, Westernport, Frankston, Cranbourne and Pakenham areas, provides a plethora of opportunity according to the passionate netball lover who has been involved in the sport for nearly 20 years.
“There are so many different pockets within the region that have their own expertise,” Bourke said.
“The Mornington Peninsula, in particular, has high levels of expertise with the Peninsula Waves playing in the VNL (Victorian Netball League).
“I’m really passionate about sharing that knowledge with the associations and clubs within the Two Bays region.”
Bourke, who had her interest sparked for the volunteer position while listening to a Netball Victoria development officer speak about the role, said there were many issues, based around development, that need to be discussed throughout the region.
“How are leagues developing umpires, how are they developing coaches, and how are they developing pathways for participation?” she offered.
“We are a fast-growing region, but one of the challenges associated with that is that netball is nearly at capacity in some places.
“We need to make sure we have the opportunities, and venues, for the sport to grow.”
Bourke is currently in the process of organising her first general meeting in the role, to take place in the coming weeks.
