Josh Bowring will be adding to his accolade of achievements, as he heads into his second Commonwealth Games however this one will be extra special as it will be on home soil. Josh is one of just 13 umpires selected from around the world to officiate the Games. It’s a day by day process with the umpires, not knowing whether they will be taking the court, reserve umpire or having a rest day. Josh has been preparing for the Commonwealth Games with some pre-season fitness and strength and condition work, due to the importance and length of the tournament. Where opportunities have been available he has been participating in practice matches, both in his home state with the Tasmanian Netball Invitational Series and also across the Tasman in Auckland with New Zealand, Jamaica, Fiji and Malawi.
Michelle Cooley is one of nine Bench Officials who went through a lengthy 12 month process to be chosen to head to the Games. Michelle will be on the Technical Officials bench as timer. The score bench consists of four roles plus a Bench Manager and the team work with the umpires to ensure the game is run and scored as per the International Federation of Netball rules and standards. Michelle said her downtime will be limited, but if she could see another sport, she would love to head to the Swimming.
Michelle, is not the only one from her household off to the Games, with husband Neil Cooley also off to the sunny state. Neil will volunteer at the games as Sports Competition Team Leader – Netball. He will be one of three team leaders and will be responsible for ensuring the 40+ team members are supported in completing their duties in an efficient and timely manner.
Netball Tasmania Board Member Andy Stuart is looking forward to the rewarding experience of taking on the role of Sports Information (Netball) at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. Andy is looking forward to spending most of his time at the athlete’s village with the athletes, coaches and support staff. He said the facilities look amazing and he can’t wait to see it in action with all the flags and mascots and color about.
Netball Tasmania wishes them all the best during their time on the Gold Coast and know they will represent Tasmania and Australia with pride.
