Tallygaroopna legend Melissa Hosie is preparing to make her 400th appearance for the Redlegs after representing the club with distinction for 23 years.
This landmark occasion will be marked by her teammates, who will line up in her honour before the side’s game against Rushworth on June 13.
Having first taken to the netball court at Tallygaroopna Recreation Ground as part of the club’s junior set-up back in 2003, the star known as “Miss” has earned a reputation for consistency during over two decades of action.
Long established among the Road Runners’ standout servants of the 21st century, Hosie has notched up a single A-grade appearance, while playing 78 times at B-grade level, 275 times at C-grade and 45 times for the juniors to date.
Her commitment and excellence in the club’s navy blue and red colours has been recognised by peers from across the Kyabram District League (KDL) too, and she took home the C-grade best-and-fairest award in 2015.
Her individual achievements have been matched with collective success too, having formed part of Tallygaroopna’s 2016, 2017 and 2019 premiership-winning C-grade teams.
In addition, she has carved out an enviable record as a coach, leading Tally’s 17-and-under side to the premiership in 2023, having served in this capacity over the course of six seasons from 2007 onwards.
Away from the court, Hosie has also been involved on various club committees, helping to shape the future of the side.
Tallygaroopna’s senior vice-president of Netball, Cienna Halden, paid tribute to the multi-talented star for her extensive contributions.
“She started back years ago in 2003 and she has such a strong family connection to the club,” she said.
”She’s only missed a few games due to injuries and illness since then, so she’s been a staple in our side for a very long time.
“It’s another great milestone for Tally, so it's great to see her get up there and be recognised for all her work that she's put in.
“She's always always willing to help out and she will always be the first one to put a hand up when we are struggling.”
Halden and Hoise are cousins, and the former revealed that it is a source of great pride for the wider family that so many members of the brood have represented the club with distinction down the years.
“All of our family have been involved with Tally for god knows how long - a very, very long time,” Halden said.
“It's great to see so many of us hitting milestones, and a lot of young ones (in the family) that are all coming up too.”
By Thomas Beattie, Shepparton News
