Netball development role is exciting goal for Thurso coach
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A Thurso woman has netted a new role developing netball for people across north central Scotland.
Grace Carson will be responsible for enhancing education around the sport, developing new coaches and umpires, encouraging those involved in junior netball, and creating a local network.
The 23-year-old has recently qualified with a BSc (Hons) in Sport and Fitness from Perth College UHI.
The netball development officer role is funded by accountancy and business advisory firm Johnston Carmichael and is aimed at growing the sport across Perth, Kinross, Dundee and Angus.
Grace said: “I am so excited to begin my role as netball development officer for the Perth, Kinross, Dundee, and Angus region. I plan to create and develop a variety of opportunities, so that everyone in these areas can be engaged with the sport.
“I have recently completed a degree in sport and fitness and during my time at university, a key focus and interest of mine was sports development. I believe that sport should be for everyone, and that netball is a sport that can make positive changes to anyone’s life. My experience as a player, coach and developing umpire means that I can positively share the experiences I have had with netball and how they have impacted my life.
“Whether you are aiming to improve health and wellbeing, make friends or get to the top level of competition, I am here to support and direct that journey.”
Grace’s appointment is part of Johnston Carmichael’s new partnership with Netball Scotland. The firm provided a funding package worth more than £30,000 to help grow the sport after Covid-19 restrictions and school closures curbed young people’s ability to take up the game.
The deal, which will additionally support new development officer posts in Glasgow and Edinburgh, is also being used to fund ‘Road to Region’ camps and pay for emergency grants to junior clubs with critical needs linked to participation, accessibility, training and competition.
Martin Osler, chief people officer, Johnston Carmichael, said: “Supporting the appointment of development officers is crucial to improving access to netball. Their work will help to engage the new players, coaches and umpires required to grow the sport and enable new generations to participate.
“Sports such as netball play a vital role in enhancing the health and wellbeing of future generations, building their confidence, and providing them with experience in working within a team, as well as other vital skills needed to thrive both personally and professionally.”
