FORMER Quaama netballer Susan Pratley is enhancing junior skills in the region.
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A special skills training clinic was held last Thursday for kids between six and 14 years old.
Merimbula District Netball Association president Jo Kellalea said a successful clinic last year spurred on a repeat visit.
“Last year she came down as an ANZ NetSetGo ambassador, this time I thought I’d ask her down for a session for all juniors,” Kellalea said.
About 30 kids, ranging from six to 13 years old, were tutored in a full range of skills across the court.
“She showed them ball skills, footwork, shooting drills and defence work, she covered all areas of the court.”
As a former Sapphire netballer herself, Pratley is a huge advocate for sport in the region, Kellalea said.
“She is a huge supporter of the Sapphire Coast at reps, she goes and watches games and supports our region as a whole.
“She’s come from this area and done the hard yards to get where she is today, that’s why it’s so close to her heart,” she said.
The kids were presented with “goody” bags at the end of the sessions, which included socks, drink bottles and photos of the NSW Swifts.
The juniors also enjoyed tutelage from one of the country’s best.
“It’s a great experience for the children to have a former Australian netballer coach them,” Kellalea said.
A surprise bonus for the club on the day was a presentation of a signed dress, worn by Pratley, to use in the club’s annual raffle.
“The dress is signed by all the NSW Swifts,” Kellalea said.
When she arranged the clinic, Kellalea said she asked Pratley about possibly donating some merchandise for the raffle and was stunned to be handed the signed uniform.
“I didn’t expect that at all and it was a very good bonus,” she said with a laugh.
The dress, along with other prizes, will be raffled off during the club’s presentation at Club Sapphire next month.