Meadley a rising star in state Netball

GEMMA Meadley, a dynamic defender with a passion for netball, has progressed through the Netball Victoria development pathway. The 2024 season has been a breakthrough year for the young athlete, as she was invited to the state team selection round and earned a spot in the top 25 players.

As a training partner for the 2024 state team, Gemma was granted a pass for the initial 400-player tryout step, setting her on a faster track to the top. Her exceptional skills and dedication caught the eye of selectors, and she participated in the Elevate program, a high-performance training squad based in Parkville. 

Over nine weeks, Gemma trained three times a week, under the guidance of the renowned Cathy Fellows, Adelaide Thunderbirds defensive coach and head coach of the Australian U21 team. These final sessions, held over the first two Sundays in December, played a pivotal role in her selection to the team of 12 players.

Gemma’s journey into netball started at LDNA’s NetSetGo program, where she quickly found her place in the sport. 

Known for her infectious smile on the court, Gemma’s enthusiasm and positive energy have made her a joy to watch, especially for her parents. Her natural talent and commitment to growth have been clear from the beginning, and her impressive work ethic continues to shine.

This year, Gemma’s efforts were rewarded as she earned the MVP title for the Casey Demons’ U19 development team in the 19&Under State Super Netball Series. She has also been part of the Netball Victoria Talent Academy, which has required a huge commitment but has been instrumental in honing her skills for the future.

Despite her busy schedule with both the Leongatha Parrots and Casey Demons in the VNL, Gemma is committed to balancing her sporting commitments, with state netball taking priority in the lead-up to the National Championship in Sydney on April 10, 2024. She will continue to train at Parkville until April.

As she recovers from the intense 2024 series, Gemma is taking a well-earned break, preparing herself for the challenges ahead. With her eyes set on the Suncorp Super Netball, Gemma’s dream of playing at the highest level of netball is within reach. With hard work, determination, and an unwavering love for the game, Gemma Meadley is undoubtedly one to watch as she continues to rise through the ranks of Australian netball.