Meet A Member: Karina Newmarch
Left: Karina with husband Giles, Annie & Izzy. Right: Annie & Izzy at ANZA Netball
Wow! You competed in the Olympics in the past …
I grew up in Victoria playing netball and dreaming of the Olympics, but sadly, netball isn’t an Olympic sport! That dream led me to rowing, and I competed at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games. Perhaps when Australia hosts the Olympics in 2032, netball will make the programme!
How did you become involved with ANZA Netball?
Both my daughters Annie and Izzy joined ANZA Netball when they were six years old. With a background in the sport, it didn’t take long before I moved from the sidelines to helping out. Over time, my involvement grew into a more formal position.
What is your role?
As Netball Co-ordinator, I coordinate communication with parents, players and coaches, support the weekly programme, and work with the committee on ways to continue developing the club.
What’s new?
We’ve just relaunched our Umpire and Coach Pathways, which is an exciting step forward. These programmes give older players and volunteer coaches the chance to develop skills, build confidence and stay involved in netball in different ways.
Left: Impressive moves at the Daisy Tan Carnival 2025. Right: Mid-match pep talk
What do you love most about being part of the club?
Watching the girls grow in confidence, on and off the court. It’s also incredibly special to be part of such a supportive community. The friendships between players, parents, coaches and volunteers makes ANZA Netball such a positive environment.
What’s your proudest achievement so far?
Being a part of the group of women who run ANZA Netball is remarkable. They’re talented, motivated and generous with their time, all committed to creating the best possible experience for our players.
Any future plans for ANZA Netball this year?
Our focus is on supporting younger players as they learn the game, while creating opportunities for older girls to step into leadership roles through coaching and umpiring. We’re also keen to strengthen connections with other clubs and organise more friendly matches and competitions.
How does ANZA fit into your family life?
It’s given our girls a taste of the netball culture I grew up with in Oz while helping them to feel part of a strong sporting community in Singapore. The annual trip to Perth is a highlight.
“With a background in netball, it was difficult to stand on the sidelines without wanting to get involved!”
Where can we find you off the court?
Sport is a huge part of our family life so you’ll most likely find me on the sidelines of a sports field somewhere watching our girls. As a fitness enthusiast, I spend a lot of time in the gym or coaching group training classes around the island.
What motivates you to volunteer with ANZA?
It’s about giving back to a sport that gave me so much growing up. Team sport teaches young people invaluable lessons, from discipline and resilience to teamwork and camaraderie. Seeing girls grow in confidence, build friendships and develop a love of the game makes volunteering incredibly rewarding.
Got questions? Email us at [email protected]