Inspirational leader celebrates 350

East Gambier premiership captain Tarsh McCallum more than just a star player

Tarsh moved her way through the junior age groups at East, earning a senior berth as a 15 year old, debuting in A Grade as a 17 year old and becoming a permanent fixture in that A Grade line-up when she was 18.

The Bulldogs had to do without their mid court star on the rise from 2011-2014 when she moved to Adelaide for university and when she returned in 2015, she had an immediate impact and has been racking up the accolades ever since.

She is a multiple Western Border Netball Association Team of the Year nominee; has played in two SA Country Championships winning A Grade teams and her accolades at club level are extensive.

Tarsh has coached the East A Grade team, coached other junior and senior teams and has been instrumental in bringing a professionalism to the training, match preparation and recovery to the club, utilising her skills as a physiotherapist to not only assist her own club with pre-game and training warm ups and recovery sessions but passing on her knowledge to clubs across the region.

Of her 350 games as a Bulldog, already 200-plus are as a senior player and she was acknowledged for joining that elite club at the 2022 Western Border presentations. Tarsh is a hard running mid courter who works well in small spaces but also uses her pace to great effect to drive hard down court and connect with her goalers.

She works just as hard without the ball as with it and has brought that strong defensive mindset to her team mates.

Tarsh is a leader on court, always providing encouragement and motivation to her team mates and she is one of the most respected players in the Western Border Netball Association.

East Gambier Netball Club president Dani Waters ran out of superlatives to describe this valued club member.

“She goes above and beyond for the members, players and families at East and has dedicated her time, energy and love to us; as a coach and committee member and friend and has contributed to the growth and promotion of netball in our community, illuminating the path for young girls to pursue their dreams and reminding us all that hard work and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements,” Waters said. “Achieving 350 games is no small feat. It takes unwavering dedication, teamwork, countless memories, friendships forged, and the invaluable life lessons learned, it becomes a passion, you are more than just a player; you are a role model, an ambassador, and a symbol of what it means to love and excel in the sport of netball.

“Congratulations on this incredible milestone, and here’s to many more games filled with triumphs, memories, and the sheer joy of playing netball, may your legacy continue to inspire generations to come.”