Life Member Stories
Phil Thorneycroft
I became involved at FTG as my children went to Kent Park Primary School with girls whose parents - such as The Bennetts, Donnellys, McNamaras and Tilleys - were very involved at the club. I began my coaching journey after Faith’s team need a coach in U13's. I’ve coached for the last 10 years at the club, initially taking my daughter's teams then raising my hand some seasons to coach up to 3 teams. I’ve previously taken on the role of Coaches Convenor and have since returned to the role of Equipment Officer.
One of my earliest memories at the club was being a spectator and watching Phoebe play GS or GA in Netta (now Modified) and cheering if we were lucky enough to score a goal. Mind you, the Modified goal posts used to be half the size of a regular goal post. When Phoebe moved to U11's, I remember her friend Paige kept running off the court to tell her mum (Michelle) to stop talking to people and start watching her play.
A particularly memorable match was coaching and winning the U23/1 Grand Final, my daughter Phoebe’s team. We ended the game with 6 players and managed to hold on by 2 goals, after a few coaching adjustments. A special mention to Rachel Hough who had a badly damaged finger and still managed to execute some important goals.
Early in my time at the club we were challenged with a small committee of 10. Luckily the committee has grown to 23, but we always need new members. We always have a lot of fun on our committee nights. Previous President Gavin Ferrier was big on supplying chocolates and biscuits and would often be questioned if he came empty handed. Gavin Ferrier, Zoe Ruighaver, Jenny Block and all their team were a big part of Gully’s recent success. Gordo and Jackie, who always love a chat, are a true representation of Ferntree Gully people.
The most influential people I have met are the players I have coached. They inspire me to better my understanding of the game. My involvement in the club has improved my confidence in communicating with people beyond the game. I hope current and future members have fun, try your best and enjoy the sport as a player or spectator.
Ferntree Gully Netball Club fosters respect, inclusiveness and sportsmanship within its community members. Giving young girls and boys an opportunity to be a part of a team and community. And it makes me proud to be a part of the Ferntree Gully Netball Club.
One of my earliest memories at the club was being a spectator and watching Phoebe play GS or GA in Netta (now Modified) and cheering if we were lucky enough to score a goal. Mind you, the Modified goal posts used to be half the size of a regular goal post. When Phoebe moved to U11's, I remember her friend Paige kept running off the court to tell her mum (Michelle) to stop talking to people and start watching her play.
A particularly memorable match was coaching and winning the U23/1 Grand Final, my daughter Phoebe’s team. We ended the game with 6 players and managed to hold on by 2 goals, after a few coaching adjustments. A special mention to Rachel Hough who had a badly damaged finger and still managed to execute some important goals.
Early in my time at the club we were challenged with a small committee of 10. Luckily the committee has grown to 23, but we always need new members. We always have a lot of fun on our committee nights. Previous President Gavin Ferrier was big on supplying chocolates and biscuits and would often be questioned if he came empty handed. Gavin Ferrier, Zoe Ruighaver, Jenny Block and all their team were a big part of Gully’s recent success. Gordo and Jackie, who always love a chat, are a true representation of Ferntree Gully people.
The most influential people I have met are the players I have coached. They inspire me to better my understanding of the game. My involvement in the club has improved my confidence in communicating with people beyond the game. I hope current and future members have fun, try your best and enjoy the sport as a player or spectator.
Ferntree Gully Netball Club fosters respect, inclusiveness and sportsmanship within its community members. Giving young girls and boys an opportunity to be a part of a team and community. And it makes me proud to be a part of the Ferntree Gully Netball Club.