Dungog and District Netball Association has bestowed a life membership upon its president, Sam Rumbel, for her tireless dedication to the club for more than 12 years.

Sam became involved with the Dungog club 12 years ago when her oldest daughter Emma started to play with younger daughter Jessica then taking to the courts.

While both are still representative-level netball players, neither of the girls now play for the Dungog club – but Sam continues on with her role.

Sam is also the representative convener for the Port Stephens Netball Association, having volunteered for the rep sides in various roles for nine years when Emma was first selected.

Her executive committee role with PSNA  sees her at the Raymond Terrace courts early each Saturday morning and not heading back home to Dungog  until well after the final whistle of the day..

“I just love netball,” she said, adding she also loves her long fingernails which is the reason she has never played.

She said she gains great satisfaction in playing a part in the sport where she can see the girls’ progress from first learning to play to senior level.

“I love to watch the smiles on the kids faces when they play,” she said.

Sam received a life member badge, a glass trophy and flowers in appreciation for her dedication to the club.