We put a call out to our netball community for their stories that embodied the ‘fearless’ mantra.
When Dewmi Manannalage’s submission came through, we had to share her story.
Dewmi arrived at Mernda Junior Netball Club when she was 10 years old. She hadn’t stepped foot on a netball court before, and it was a scary place. It was such a shock for her that she couldn’t stop crying when she first came to try out. All sorts of thoughts ran through her head;
The worry of not doing well.
The fear of not being good enough.
The belief that she couldn’t do it.
Fast forward two years and Dewmi has now played in a grand final, she’s a leader of the netball club and encourages others to be the best they can be.
Dewmi explained that her netball journey is one of her biggest achievements, both on and off the court.
‘I feel like my progression through netball is the biggest thing I’ve achieved so far. My role now is to teach others how to be fearless and persevere like I did,’ said Dewmi.
‘I know my potential now, if I can help do that for one or two people that would mean a lot to me.
‘My favourite part is encouraging others. Not only do I want to be the best I can be, but I also want to inspire others to be the best they can be.’
Dewmi’s Mum, Rajika explained how much progress Dewmi has made throughout her time at the club.
‘We couldn't make her walk inside the court on her very first try-out day, and now she’s cheering up all her teammates while playing her best at the grand finals of the last season. It’s not about being the best player of the team, but it has been my absolute pleasure to witness how she grew within the last few seasons.’
Rebecca Budge, the Netball Co-ordinator at Mernda Junior Netball Club explained that the ’fearless’ mantra is the cornerstone of the club. Explaining that they focus on the personal growth aspects of netball, rather than just the result of a win or a loss.
‘The key thing about being fearless in oneself is giving it all a go. Put all the barriers aside and give it all you’ve got.’
It can mean many things for different people, but for Dewmi and the Mernda Junior Netball Club; being fearless is overcoming something you thought you couldn’t.
Nominate someone in your netball community who is fearless.
Submit your own fearless stories to us here.
