Wales Netball
November 22, 2024
Kelly, a dedicated netballer from the small village of Trimsaran, has made significant contributions to both her local club and the wider netball community. At the young age of 15, she became an integral member of the club’s A team, competing in Division 1 for several years. Her talent extended to the national level, as she represented Wales at the U16 level. After a brief hiatus from the sport, Kelly rekindled her passion for netball by reviving the club’s Adult Section. She spearheaded the formation of the Taranau team, successfully entered them into Llanelli Adult League, and undertook the rigorous process of becoming a qualified umpire. Her commitment to personal development led her to join the Coaches Developing Together Group, where she continues to enhance her coaching skills and support fellow coaches and volunteers.
Kelly’s dedication to the sport is evident in her efforts to promote netball and its numerous benefits to women and girls in her community. She is instrumental in fostering a strong sense of community within the club and creating opportunities for local players to enjoy the physical and mental health advantages of netball.
Recently, On 8th September, the Llanelli netball League started the season with a Charity Mixed Netball Tournament at Coleg Sir Gar. Kelly nominated young Frazer from the school in which she works, as a recipient for the funds raised. Frazer is a young child currently battling Osteosarcoma which was found just above his right knee. He started intense chemotherapy treatment towards the end of January which is continuing throughout the year. Frazer has since had his right leg amputated above his knee in Birmingham’s Children’s Hospital.
“Despite the long tough journey ahead of him, young Frazer is an inspiration to all of us. Frazer has been in constant pain for months but despite this he very rarely complains about what he is going through, he says he just wants this nasty thing gone so he can run and jump hard like he loved doing so much before.” – Denise Craddock, Llanelli Adult League Chair.
The event was a resounding success, drawing 16 teams and nearly 400 spectators. Kelly’s ability to mobilize the community, including her school, village, neighbouring communities, and local workforce from Tata Steel UK, was instrumental in the event’s success. Although Frazer is still in hospital most days for chemotherapy, his parents managed to change things around and he attended the tournament as a guest of honour, staying just long enough to watch his Dad take to court.
Despite facing significant challenges, young Frazer remains an inspiration to all. Kelly and her netball club have provided invaluable support to Frazer and his family during this difficult time. The tournament raised £1,800, demonstrating the power of community and the positive impact of sport.
“Thank you all so much for dedicating this event for Frazer. We are so grateful to everyone who gave up their time to organise, play, help behind the scenes and donate. The kindness and support we have received is unbelievable, it is really helping us get through this difficult time and boost Frazer’s spirits. We are lost for words…thank you all.” – Jordan and Stephanie, Parents to Frazer.
