South Australian umpire Georgina Sulley-Beales reached new heights in 2020, capping off an incredible year with the honour of umpiring the Suncorp Super Netball Grand Final.
Georgina made her SSN umpiring debut in Round 11 of 2019, earning the All Australian Umpire Award as a result.
Not only did she become the first SA umpire to officiate an SSN match, she also became the first South Australian to receive the award in 33 years.
Her umpiring career blossomed from there as she picked up her first SSN contract in 2020 and found herself making the sacrifice to leave her family and join the Queensland Hub.
“Hub life was a completely different experience. I spent 72 days away from home and lived with other umpires in Brisbane,” Georgina said.
“It was tough being away from loved ones but it was great to work closely with other umpires and umpire coaches in the SSN team to conduct our match reviews and general discussions, especially as no other umpires are SA-based.
“The ability to attend team trainings for different clubs was another bonus.”
As finals rolled around, Georgina found herself umpiring every match – an opportunity she described as a pleasant surprise.
“Involvement in the SSN finals series was something I didn't expect when the season started, so when I received these allocations it was just really exciting,” Georgina said.
“It was special to be able to be on court for all three matches with Nathan Begley, who is a great friend and someone I have been through the pathway with.”
To top off an amazing year, she was chosen to umpire the Grand Final – one of the most significant events in netball across the world.
“The intensity and skill on show in the GF by both teams was incredible, and I feel privileged to have been involved,” Georgina said.
“I received so much support and lovely messages from home all season. People were always available to have a chat.
“It was pretty cool that Graeme Gilbert (Netball SA President) flew up to watch the GF, as he has been a huge part of my development in Adelaide.”
