Netball icon Chris Burton has been recognised for her decorated netball career and for her outstanding contribution to the sport.
Earlier this month, Netball SA facilitated a function to acknowledge and celebrate her achievements in a room full of loved ones.
“We are each given abilities and if we use them, we leave a footprint, and the world is better off for our part in it,” Burton said.
Burton boasts a 12-year playing career, during which she represented South Australia in at national tournaments before being selected to play for Australia at two Netball World Cups where she won gold with the team in 1975.
After Burton hung up her international cap, she transitioned into officiating games where she became a highly accomplished umpire.
She is well renowned for her style of umpiring and has paved the way for how the game is umpired in today’s competitions
Burton’s list of accomplishments is a testament to her character and love for netball.
Accolades:
- Umpired 3x world cup’s
- Awarded NA life membership in 1971
- Awarded NA service award in 1983
- OAM for services to sport in 1985
- International service award by the International Netball Federation.
- Elevated to legend in NA’s Hall of Fame in 2022
Decorated netball officials, coaches and players all gathered to pay tribute.
CGF Ethics Commission Independent Member Sue Taylor said it was a privilege to work alongside Burton.
“The footprints she left on the game is substantial as a player, umpire and administrator, her contribution has been outstanding,” Taylor said.
Burton’s influence on the game was felt far and wide, as she received praise from netball figures all over the world, including that of Australian netball legend Norma Plummer.
“It’s great to see that everyone is acknowledging all of her wonderful umpiring over all of the years,” Plummer said.
Netball New Zealand President Tina Karaitiana also congratulated Burton for her outstanding efforts.
“I think it is so timely that all of Australia recognises the contribution she had made to not only her country’s netball obligations but for netball globally, she made a huge contribution to how things are happening on the global stage,” Karaitiana said.
