TAHLIA Bennett has established herself as one of the state’s most promising young netball umpires.
The Southern River College student has been selected to travel to Adelaide as an umpire for School Sport Australia’s under-15 Netball Championships, part of the Pacific School Games in December.
Tahlia, who earned her National B umpiring badge this year, said she could not believe it when she heard she was headed to Adelaide.
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READ NOW“It didn’t really sink in until my association and regional development umpire coordinators congratulated me and explained the experience I had obtained in depth,” she said.
“The Adelaide trip will provide me with many great experiences and opportunities, but I’m truly grateful that I’ll be able to work with new coaches to reach the level of umpiring that others see in me.”
Tahlia said her umpiring journey began three years ago when she joined the Green Shirts development program.
“As I’ve matured, it’s great to experience the different coaches feedback on what to improve and how,” she said.
She still plays and coaches, but said she loves being able to enjoy the game without having a vested interest.
“I enjoy the thrill of a close game or finals and how I have complete control,” she said.