LOYAL Gol Gol Football Netball club servant Barb Budd made her 250th netball appearance for the club on Saturday against Nangiloc in what she said was a great tribute and moment, despite her double shift in the canteen before first centre pass.
“I was quite busy to start off, so I didn’t have much time to think about the game,” she said.
“But I actually felt a privilege to be out there playing, seeing all the boys line up and all the people turn out, it was lovely.”
A life member, past president and premiership winning player, Budd has been the heartbeat of the Hawks since joining in 2006.
She made her return to the court at 44 after a 20 year break from playing netball, quickly becoming a beloved presence across all grades at Gol Gol.
“To come back in and play netball, it was just so nice to be welcomed into a club,” Budd said.
Budd ran out at wing defence for her 250th and waiting for her was a banner dedicated to her longstanding efforts reading “Cheers to Barb 250 games Golly legend.”
A moment fitting for someone that has done everything from committee work to court marshalling.
An outstanding achievement and a deserved testimonial for her efforts even though Budd was carrying an injury into the milestone.
“I played my 250th because I wanted to play with Erin and Kate for their 100th but the minute I pushed off, I knew I wasn’t feeling good.”
Erin Taylor and Kate Donaldson were celebrating alongside Budd for their century of appearances as all three were presented flower bouquets.
Budd’s proudest moment, however, remains winning the 2008 Millewa netball premiership.
“That’s definitely been the highlight,” she said. “2009 I had an ACL injury and missed the grand final, but 2008 was pretty special.”
Budd summed up her favourite thing about the Hawks netball club simply.
“The friendships you make here are special, it’s just beautiful,” she said.
For the record, the Hawks got up 45 to 18.
