Revered Australian goal shooter, Sharelle McMahon has been appointed captain of the Australian Netball Team, becoming the 19th captain in the sport’s 80-year history.
Australian vice captain since 2004, McMahon has forged a reputation for on court brilliance and also brings passion, commitment, inspiration and strong leadership skills to one of Australian sport’s most prestigious roles.
McMahon will lead Australia with newly-appointed vice-captain and world champion centre, Natalie von Bertouch.
McMahon said it was a great honour to follow in the footsteps of legendary captains such as Liz Ellis, Vicki Wilson, Kath Harby-Williams, Michelle Fielke, Annie Sargeant, Norma Plummer and Marg Caldow.
“The Australian Netball Team has a long and fantastic tradition of strong leaders as captain, so to be named amongst them is a great honour,” McMahon said. “It is a privilege to lead this group of women who are extremely talented but also of the highest calibre.”
With 11 years experience at the highest level, McMahon is looking forward to sharing her knowledge with the next generation of athletes.
“When I first played, I was very young and naïve and have since learned so much,” McMahon said. “I am excited about sharing my experience with our younger players to ensure the traditions of the Australian Netball Team continue. “
Netball Australia Chief Executive, Kate Palmer believes strong leadership is the key to the success of any team and says McMahon is ready to meet the challenge of leading one of the nation’s most popular sports.
“Sharelle will bring a new style of leadership to the Australian Netball Team in an era of professionalism, increased media and corporate interest and greater public profile,” Palmer said.
“She is an inspirational leader and wonderful role model for all Australians. Sharelle shows enormous commitment, has extraordinary mental toughness and is an outstanding athlete who has built a reputation for fairness.”
McMahon and von Bertouch, the current Adelaide Thunderbirds captain, will make a formidable team as they lead Australia in the forthcoming New World Test series in New Zealand in September and in the Holden Netball Test Series in Australia in October against New Zealand and England.
