Netball great signs on with Tigers

TORQUAY Netball Club has appointed netball great Madi Browne as its inaugural Senior Netball Specialist in what the club has described as one of the most significant signings in the club’s history.

Browne – a two-time Liz Ellis Diamond and former Suncorp Super Netball League star – will bring her extensive experience to the club in a role that combines mentorship for senior coaches and players, technical training, and the development of a high-performance culture.

Torquay Netball Club incoming president Michael Gibson said the club was absolutely thrilled to welcome Browne to the Torquay Tigers family.

“Her wealth of experience at the highest level of netball will be invaluable in sharpening our players’ skills, while her calm and composed approach in high-pressure situations will be an incredible asset to the team.

“Madi’s passion for community sport and her dedication to developing the next generation make her a perfect fit for our club and our league.”

Browne is a sports broadcaster for Fox Netball and SEN 1116, a patron for Read the Play, and a busy mum to nine-month-old son, Judd.

Despite her commitments, she said she was excited to join the Torquay Tigers in this new capacity, contributing to the club’s continued growth and success.

“I am thrilled about the opportunity to return to the local club environment.

“I deeply value the sense of community and camaraderie it fosters, but I’m also motivated by a strong drive for success and growthI look forward to contributing to the continued development of an already outstanding club and working collaboratively with the teams to achieve success, both on and off the court.

“I’m all about having fun and building strong relationships first. Once I’ve earned that trust, I’m excited to share my elite experiences and strategies. While I’m still involved at the SSN level in media, I’ll bring everything I learn back to the coast.”

Sonia Harris has been reappointed as A grade coach for a fourth consecutive year.

Browne said she looks forward to working with Harris.

“We’ve got a great dynamic, and I believe our different coaching styles will bring out the best in each other and create something special for the club.”

2024 BFNL A grade netball best and fairest winner, Kiralee Collings and Geelong Cougars goal shooter, Elisa Hall have also re-signed..

The club says these additions, along with the recruitment of Barwon Heads’ experienced sisters Kate and Erica Schippers, will bring leadership and VNL-level experience further strengthen the club’s aspirations for the season ahead.

Torquay Netball Club has announced details of its coming trials:

• A, B, C, and U19 trials: November 30 at Spring Creek Reserve
• D and E-grade trials: 2025
• Junior trials: December 1 at 11am, Spring Creek Reserve.