Southern River student Tahlia Bennett was recently accepted into the Netball WA State Umpiring Academy Program.
The 16-year-old Harrisdale resident has been playing the sport since she was in year one and was overjoyed at having been selected into the elite program.
Tahlia said she couldn’t stop screaming when she heard the news about being accepted into the program and was very excited about it.
“Netball is my passion,” she said.
“It’s also a great distraction because I’m doing ATAR this year and it’s great to be able to play and take a break from studying.”
Tahlia said although she has had to cut down on the amount of time she spends playing netball to focus on her studying she said she is very excited about the new program.
“I love playing and umpiring equally,” she said.
“I play centre wing defence and its great.
“Through the program I’m gaining confidence in myself and feel like I can reach the higher levels.”
Tahlia said while it can be overwhelming balancing studying and netball she said the key is confidence.
“Never give up doing something that you love and always be confident,” she said.
“I’m also really lucky as my school has been so supportive and great.”
Southern River College teacher Kim Prescott said it was great Tahlia had been accepted into the program.
“Good luck with it Tahlia,” she said.
“It’s lovely to see you support netball in your community.”
First aid officer and part of the Southern River Netball Inspire program Kim Prescott-Brown said Tahlia wasn’t only a fabulous netballer but a fabulous student as well.
“It is fantastic she got into this program,” she said.
“She’s always asking for feedback as an umpire and always looking to better herself.”
Ms Prescott-Brown said the school specialised in soccer and netball and supported students to reach their full potential in sports.
