Conor Welsford looks for passing options. Photo: Nikki Bailey.
A few tears were shed at the Indoor Stadium last week as the final whistle blew in the last game of the season for Esperance’s No Limits netball talents.
The sports program for people 12 years and over with physical and intellectual disability grew immensely over the year and coach Amy Walter said the last game was bitter-sweet.
“This season we have gone from having between three and five constant players to having up to 14 players so we’ve been able to play weekly games instead of just drills,” Walter said.
Photos: Nikki Bailey.
“Over the year everyone had been able to play in every position — the ones who wanted to try umpiring got to try some umpiring and some coaching as well so everyone was just really happy.
“It becomes such a big part of their week and they’re a bit sad to see it gone for a few months but that’s just what happens with seasonal sport.”
Walter said player improvement had been “phenomenal” during the six months.
The team placed second at the the Fuel to Go netball championships in Perth in June and seven players are set to travel to Rockingham at the end of October to compete in a higher-level carnival again.
Walter said they were aiming for another grand final appearance.
“I’ve been in No Limits now for eight years and they are quite a strong team,” she said.
“Fitness has improved, skills have improved, and all of them have played in different positions every week.
“We’ve had quite a few different disabilities and it’s nice to see how everyone has adapted to all the disabilities – it’s quite amazing how no limits players can adapt so well.
Walter said the competition supports players mental wellbeing and social skills too.
“They don’t actually realise they’re socialising when they are playing because that’s what most of them find hard and when they’re doing something they love they just kind of relax a bit I guess and the friendships have been beautiful so that’s really nice to see,” she said.
The team held its presentation night on Saturday.
No Limits netball will resume at the beginning of May next year.
Ms Walter said next season they would ideally have 14-16 consistent players for a competition with two teams and proper scoring.
