Netball tourney named for local ‘legend’

A NETBALL tournament for primary-age players has been named after a volunteer who has contributed to the group for more than 60 years.

The annual competition, run by Golden City Netball Association, had 46 teams from the wider area compete last weekend at their courts beside Red Energy Arena.

From now on, it will be known as the Paula Trevean Primary Tournament.

GCNA president Rachel Thomsen said Ms Trevean is an “absolute legend” of the game and key to shaping the association into what it is today.

“She’s umpired, she’s been involved with the committee, she’s played,” said Ms Thomsen.

“She’s always dedicated herself to grassroots netball, and to making sure as many kids as possible are out on the court.”

Ms Trevean, who said she usually prefers to stay in the background, said she was humbled to have received the honour and has “loved every part” of her time with Golden City.

“Just to see the kids play, that’s the most important thing,” she said. “I’ve just loved what I’ve been doing, I’ve been very grateful that I can be a part of a team.

“You teach them as they go through, and they say, are you still here? And I say yep, because it’s something you love. You‘re just a part of a team, and it just helps you in life I think too.

“[I’m] very privileged to be a part of Golden City mainly, that’s my second home.”

While Ms Trevean said she will be stepping down from her current role shortly, she is now working to assist the next generation in taking over the ropes.

“There’s a few girls who will be around another 20 years or 30 years, same as me, but now I’m stepping down as the primary secretary after many years, and we need new blood,” she said.

“We definitely need new, young ones to come in and keep it going.”