In a remarkable debut season, Amy Richardson of the Henty Swampies has been awarded the Hume Netball Association’s A-grade best and fairest award. The recognition comes after an impressive season, where the Swampies defied expectations to reach the grand final against Jindera despite finishing fifth in the home and away season.
“I don’t think it’s sunk in yet,” Richardson expressed following the award ceremony on October 16, 2023. “I’m very honoured and very grateful to the club for everything they have done for me this year. It’s a big club effort.”
Path to the Grand Final
After a challenging start, the Swampies eliminated tough competitors, including Osborne, Billabong Crows, and Howlong, to secure their spot in the grand final. However, in a cruel twist of fate, Richardson will miss the crucial match due to injuries sustained during the semi-final against the Crows.
“Unfortunately, I did my ACL and PCL in the semi-final,” she stated. “It is what it is, and that’s sport. It’s just unfortunate timing. I would love to be out there with the girls, but I’ll be their biggest cheerleader.” Despite her injury, Richardson remains optimistic and excited for her team, highlighting the strong community support in Henty. “We have a very big support base, so there’s definitely going to be lots of red out there on the weekend,” she added.
Team Dynamics and Future Prospects
During the vote count, Richardson was joined by former teammate Bethany Moloney of the Crows, who finished as the runner-up. The two players previously spent several seasons together at North Albury, making the moment even more special for Richardson. “It was nice to be up there with her,” she remarked.
Reflecting on the season, Richardson emphasized the camaraderie within the team. “A key takeaway from the year is that we have had so much fun playing with each other,” she noted. The return of players such as Vashti Muller and Molly Murray mid-season was pivotal, igniting a belief that the team could achieve significant success.
As the Swampies prepare to face the reigning champions, the Bulldogs, who have not lost a game in two seasons, Richardson remains confident. “We’ll see how we go, but if everyone’s playing their best netball, I think anyone’s good enough. It’s just who shows up on the day,” she said. She believes that sticking to their strengths will be crucial in the grand final.
The anticipation surrounding the final match is palpable, with Henty’s supporters ready to rally behind their team. The Swampies have proven their depth and resilience throughout the season, and while Richardson will not be on the court, her enthusiasm and encouragement will undoubtedly resonate with her teammates.
