After almost six decades immersed in netball, Shelley Haynes is stepping away from Netball Victoria, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond the court.
From a five-year-old in Bendigo discovering the game alongside her mum, to representing Victoria, leading organisations, advocating for better facilities and helping shape the future of the sport, Shelley's journey has been defined by passion, persistence and an unwavering commitment to the netball community.
"I began playing netball at the age of five in Bendigo, which is almost 60 years ago," Shelley reflects. "During my playing career, I can honestly say that I've never received a single payment for playing."
Her first paid role came much later, when she joined Frankston and District Netball Association as Business Manager in 1996, marking the beginning of a 30-year career in netball administration.
For Shelley, it all started with family.
"My mum was my biggest influence," she says. "She was still playing when I started and she was also my coach."
Some of her earliest and fondest memories are of travelling to Melbourne each June long weekend for Country Week, representing Golden City Netball Association in fiercely contested matches against the state's strongest country associations.
While the competition was memorable, it was the friendships that kept her coming back.
"I've stayed involved because of the friendships and connections that netball has given me. Lifelong friendships."
Those connections have also taken her around the world, representing Victoria in Christchurch as both a player and assistant coach, and travelling to New Delhi as a statistician for the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
Shelley's playing career was filled with milestones. Selected as a 14-year-old in the Victorian under 16 team was a highlight, but few compare to earning selection in her first Victorian Open team.
"As a country girl from Bendigo, it was overwhelming at the time," she says.
She went on to represent Victoria on three occasions, but admits self-doubt crept in when she attended her first Victorian Open training session under legendary coach Norma Plummer.
"I sat in the car park and didn't want to get out of the car. There were several Australian players in the team and I still wasn't sure if I deserved to be there."
Those nerves quickly gave way to success, with Victoria claiming the national title in Darwin in 1986 before Shelley was selected again the following year.
Forty years on, one memory from that championship still stands out.
Before the team travelled north, players were told they would need to fundraise the entire cost of the trip themselves.
"We did wine drives, donated goods to sell at stalls, raffle tickets – the lot," Shelley recalls.
The hard work paid off. Both the Victorian Open and 21 and Under teams not only raised enough money to travel but returned home as national champions.
"It galvanised the two teams," she says.
While her achievements on court were significant, Shelley's influence off court has arguably been even greater.
A move to Darwin as CEO of Netball Northern Territory proved transformative, challenging her to step outside her comfort zone while opening her eyes to the importance of quality sporting infrastructure.
It sparked a passion for facility development that has become a defining part of her work.
"I feel proud when I attend a facility opening and see the smiles on that community's faces that they finally got an upgrade they can be proud of," she says.
"Some of the work behind the scenes takes years and years, and it's those moments that stand out."
Throughout her career, Shelley has experienced netball from every angle – player, coach, umpire and administrator – giving her a unique understanding of the sport's entire ecosystem.
That perspective has shaped the way she works with clubs, associations, volunteers and government.
"Being able to understand the full ecosystem of netball from grassroots to elite is invaluable when speaking to stakeholders."
She's also witnessed significant change across the sport.
"I've seen the game become more accessible and flexible in its thinking," Shelley says.
Whether through welcoming men and boys, embracing all abilities programs, relaxing uniform requirements or introducing Walking Netball, Shelley believes the sport has continued to evolve while becoming faster and more athletic than ever before.
Looking ahead, Shelley has one dream she still hopes to see realised.
"I would love to see our sport accepted in the 2032 Olympics. It should have happened well before now. We have one of the best games in the world."
As she reflects on her seven years at Netball Victoria, Shelley hopes her lasting contribution will be measured by more than projects completed or facilities built.
"I hope my legacy is that netball is more respected and better understood by all levels of government, and that our facilities and places to play are in better shape than when I started."
Her advice to the next generation is simple but powerful.
"Continue advocating for the sport with passion, patience and persistence."
Shelley is quick to acknowledge the many people who shaped her own journey, from her family and partner to the long list of coaches who challenged, encouraged and inspired her throughout her career.
Beyond the medals, roles and achievements, she says netball has given her something even more valuable.
"It's taught me resilience and patience. It's given me lifelong friendships."
So what comes next?
Shelley laughs that she won't miss her overflowing email inbox or Teams meetings, but she will miss the people.
Now, she's looking forward to spending more time with partner John, travelling in the caravan they're yet to purchase, and making treasured memories with family and grandchildren.
Netball Victoria CEO, Andrea Pearman emphasised the legacy Shelley will leave.
“After almost six decades of involvement at nearly every level of netball, Shelley leaves an incredible legacy in our netball community. From her beginnings as a player through to leadership and advocacy roles, Shelley has consistently championed the growth of netball and the communities that support it. Her dedication to improving facilities, strengthening opportunities for participants and ensuring netball is recognised and respected has left a lasting mark on our sport.
Just as importantly, Shelley has built strong relationships across the netball community and been a trusted supporter of many throughout her career. On behalf of Netball Victoria, I thank Shelley for her years of service, passion and commitment, and wish her all the very best for the next exciting chapter."
After nearly 60 years devoted to netball, it's a well-earned next chapter.
One thing is certain: Shelley's impact on Victorian netball will continue to be felt for many years to come.
