Three exceptional contributors to the South Australian netball community have been recognised for their efforts in 2025.
Kristy Turnbull and Carlie Woods are the winners of the Trade Up Umpire of the Year Award and Anna van den Berg is the winner of the Cobb’s Hill Coach of the Year Award, both in the community category.
Trade Up Umpire of the Year Award
Kirsty and Carlie were nominated together for their efforts with the Ports Netball Club.
The duo led the club’s Umpire Mentoring Programme, demonstrating dedication and enthusiasm for the growth of the program.
Taking into consideration the club’s small scale and subsequent needs, Kristy and Carlie led the development of a tailored in-house mentoring programme that has transformed umpiring at Ports.
Since its inception, the programme has had a ripple effect throughout the club and community.
Over the past two years, Ports has celebrated four C-grade badge achievements and have two members currently completing their cadetship to become panellists.
This demonstrates the program’s ability to not only support new umpires but fosters leadership and long-term engagement.
Both Kristy and Carlie are outstanding umpires with over a decade of experience. Carlie holds a C-grade badge and is a qualified panellist, actively involved in the development and assessment of new umpires.
Kristy, who has umpired for many years, recently achieved her C-grade badge - a significant accomplishment after navigating injury setbacks.
Both women are deeply committed to continually improving their own umpiring craft - regularly engaging in rule updates, attending training sessions, and staying up to date with changes in the game.
Their efforts have put Ports Netball Club in such a strong position for officiating and made umpiring a proud part of the club’s identity.
Cobb’s Hill Coach of the Year Award
Anna van den Berg has been nominated for her contribution to coaching at South Adelaide Netball Club.
As a long-standing member of the club, Anna’s commitment extends far beyond coaching a team. She is a driving force in creating a positive, safe, and inclusive environment where all players feel welcome and supported.
Anna is always the first to volunteer her time, stepping in to help fellow coaches, running extra sessions, and offering guidance to anyone who needs it.
Her generosity and team first attitude contribute to a culture of collaboration and kindness, which filters down to her players and those around her.
She is deeply invested in the growth and wellbeing of every player she coaches. Anna takes the time to get to know each child individually, building trust and making sure they feel seen, heard, and valued.
Anna creates safe spaces where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities and where every player, regardless of ability, feels like an important part of the team.
Her coaching is patient, encouraging, and always focused on building players up. Many of her past players continue to speak of the positive impact she’s had on their lives, both in sport and beyond.
Always looking to improve, Anna actively seeks new ways to grow her knowledge and share it with others.
She models lifelong learning and leadership, and inspires young players to do the same.
All three recipients were celebrated at the Netball SA Awards Gala on September 5th.
