Having scored 609 goals across the year, Ryde was pivotal in the team’s success which saw them take out the premiership against NSW Waratahs.
Emma’s influence was noticed league wide as she was also today announced as the Deakin University Australian Netball League Most Valuable Player.
Head coach Di Honey commended Emma on her season after a knee injury forced her out of the game for 12 months.
“Emma’s had a ripper season. She’s been a target for us in that goal circle and it’s been wonderful to be able to coach her again,” said Honey.
“She’s been a fantastic asset to our team and has really enjoyed her netball this year which has been so nice to see.
“Her confidence in her all aspects of her game has grown exponentially so while she’s our key goaler and putting those shots up, her leadership out on court has helped lift the team across the year.”
Emma, shocked with the honour, credited Di, the coaching staff and team for reigniting her passion for the game.
“I am honestly shocked, but it’s really a credit to the team,” said Ryde.
“They know how to feed to me, where to pass it and I’m just so happy to have been part of this group – it’s been one of the best groups I’ve ever played with.
“At the start of the year, I was tossing up whether I’d come back to this level of netball. I was definitely going to play VNL, but ANL was another question. When I found out Di and Eloise were coaching, that really pushed me to go for it so I just want to thank them for giving me this opportunity.”
The Victorian Fury tonight also acknowledged defender and captain Jacqui Newton who received the Coaches’ Award, while Team Manager Donna Monteath was acknowledged for her hard work behind the scenes being awarded Victorian Fury’s Outstanding Service Award.
