Good Sports: Jude Macdonald

Jude Macdonald is a legend in netball circles. Having been involved in many different roles, including winning netballer of the year in 2006 and being named umpire of the year, she now writes weekly reports for the Northern Advocate.

How many years have you been involved with netball?

As long as I can remember - I grew up with two sisters, one younger and one older, and at the time we all played along with my mother. Back then I think it was about family and playing sport together on a Saturday. So I started in primary school and played right through until last year. I played age group reps at Rodney and then senior reps at Northern Wairoa. Then I got interested in umpiring and got my centre badge.

We've got a photo on file of you playing as a goal attack in 2006; is goal attack your favourite position?

I would love to see that photo! I started netball playing at the centre position and even played age group reps in that position, but, yes moved to goal attack and/or goal shoot towards the end of school. Goal attack or goal shoot would be my favourite position to play and watch and I believe that it is the most difficult position to play from a physical, emotional and mental perspective.

If you could put a message out there about netball in Northland, or Whangarei, what would it be?

Everyone should play a sport - it teaches you so much it can't be put into words. However, netball is my game as it is a game for anyone and everyone - boys, girls, juniors (from age 5), intermediates, seniors (up until any age).

What is it each year that you look forward to the most?

Whether it be a particular clash between teams or seeing friendly faces, or anything really.

About a week or so after netball finishes I am ready for it to start again. What I look forward to is the new challenges and doing it all again - but better than last year. And, the greatest thing I look forward to each year is to see the growth and enjoyment in the players, coaches and umpires themselves and in the smiles on the faces.