Volunteer of the Month

As a co-founder of one of the fastest growing Netball clubs in Pembrokeshire for the past 20 years, Mel’s contribution to the growth of Netball in her area is phenomenal. This is Mel’s last year maintaining her many roles and duties, and Wales Netball would like to recognise her immense efforts by awarding her our Volunteer of the Month.

Mel’s first venture into creating a Netball Team started in 1995 when she noticed there was a lack of sporting opportunities for Army wives and so began the ‘Brawdy Army and Wives Team’. Years later, Mel went on to create Chaos Netball Club alongside co-founder Alison Turner, after being awarded a lottery grant. The club began as a Ladies club, to now having senior teams in the Pembrokeshire Adult League, and junior teams in the Pembrokeshire Junior League, totalling to around 170 club members.

As well as playing for the club herself, she has also held roles (sometimes simultaneously) such as Club Chair, Secretary and Treasurer, in addition to the Chair of Pembrokeshire Junior League at one point. Boasting both C-award Umpire and Level 1 and Level 2 Coaching qualifications, Mel’s contributions to Netball has been extensive. She has worked hard over the years to encourage young umpires and coaches to develop their own skills and confidence.

She has encouraged and supported young players to develop umpiring skills, coaching awards and also inexperienced coaches to become confident in their abilities.

Linda (current Chaos Netball Club Super Admin)

Understanding the importance of sustainability and having new coaches and umpires developing their skills, she has successfully helped to raise funds for young people’s qualifications. Mel did this through club funds which were successfully maintained through her work as Treasurer, securing various grants and subsides over the years to keep the club financially sound. Grants such as the Community Chest Scheme (now ‘Be Active Wales Fund’) has also helped fund necessary equipment for the club.

Mel’s commitment and dedication to coaching the U14’s and Back-to-Netball teams has always centred around encouragement and support.

Mel is very fair. She has always encouraged equal court time for all and brings out the best in so many young players. She is very knowledgeable of the game and always brings new ideas to training sessions. Players always know exactly where they are with her and what is expected. She is very approachable and always constructive.

Linda (current Chaos Netball Club Super Admin)

It is her unwavering support and organisation which inspired her club to nominate her for the ‘Club Organiser of the Year, 2017’ award by Sport Pembrokeshire, which she went on to win – fending off some very strong opposition.

After 20 years of constant loyalty to her roles and responsibilities, Mel has decided to retire as Club Chair and coach of the U14’s teams and Back-to-Netball. We are sure Mel’s efforts will be recognised by all of those who benefited from her support and guidance. Thank you, Mel, – for all you have done for the provision and growth of netball in your area!

Wales Netball’s Volunteers of the Month will be announced at the beginning of every month, with an article going on our website and posts going out across all social media channels.

If you would like to nominate your coach, an umpire, or someone who helps your netball club and the wider community, complete the nomination form using this link – https://forms.gle/fREqFRkPFyHnoPRn6