GOING into the season, 51-year-old Sharon Watson admitted she wasn’t sure how she’d fare at the top level.
The Mildura defender retired in 2022 and coached from the sidelines last season before making her return this season as a player.
In the Demons’ confidence-boosting 57-29 win over Imperials, Watson showed the value 34 years of experience could bring, reading the game well from defence and propelling her team forward.
Coming into the season, Watson had no expectations of playing A grade – instead, she was just happy to return to the court.
“I love playing,” Watson said.
“I missed it so much last year.
“I did coach because I thought it would be for the betterment of the team but for me personally I really struggled not hitting the court.
“Ellie (Vincent) has her own technique and style, which is great, young and vibrant with great ideas … the girls respond.
“I don’t class myself as old in the mind but the game is different and young people respond better to younger people, I believe.
“I like to think I’m very coachable, I like to listen and I don’t try to tread on any toes.
“The game plan is the game plan and we work on that as a team together.”
When asked about her longevity as a player, Watson and Sunraysia Daily both touched wood.
“I’ve been fortunate to have not suffered too many injuries – I haven’t rolled too many ankles or landed on anybody’s feet,” Watson said.
“In terms of the game, I think at times it gets complicated and it doesn’t need to be.
“You have to pass the ball up the court and get it in the ring at the other end.
“Nothing much changes.”
A former Mildura Heat player, Watson is also a dedicated referee in both netball and basketball.
After her game on the weekend, other grades were short on referees so Watson happily grabbed her whistle and officiated two games.
“The body feels it on on Sundays, don’t get me wrong,” Watson said.
“For basketball, I umpired the under 16s just to fill a hole because we’re short on referees.
“I also helped out at the junior country champs too, which was a great experience.
“You have a coach on the sidelines giving you pointers and you’re never too old to learn.
“I love all the feedback.
“They give you a little report card at the end which helps with things you need to improve on.”
Demons coach Ellie Vincent said her team “gelled” as the game went on and praised Watson for her contribution to the win.
“It was so exciting to see Sharon back on the court, ” Vincent said.
“She’s as fit as anyone.
“Her presence, direction and knowledge on the court will be huge for our team this year.”
As the Netballer of the Week, Watson receives $150 from Holcroft Lawyers, 143 Langtree Avenue, Mildura.
