Meet Shanaaz Macauley from Mitchell’s Plain Cape Town and currently residing in Somerset West. She’s been umpiring since the age of 12 playing for the Dolphins Netball Club. She has her reached Netball South Africa A grading.
How did your netball journey begin?
I started playing netball at the of age of 6 at Mitchell’s Plain Netball Union.
Which tournaments have you umpired at so far and which one’s are your favourite and memorable moments?
I’ve umpired at various SA Championships, Varsity Cups, Brutal Fruit Netball League and Telkom Netball League tournaments. The TNL of 2020 is my most memorable tournament where I received the accolade of an NSA A umpire.
The most difficult part about being an umpire?
Criticism is not always given constructively.
Your favourite part about being an umpire?
Umpiring tests ones capabilities and brings out the best in a person.
What are your thoughts about the TNL as a tournament?
It’s a great platform for talent to be identified for progression – be it players, umpires and coaching staff.
What advice can you share as an umpire?
Keep your dream alive! It’s not always easy but indeed worth it! Don’t be too hard on yourself. Mistakes should be seen as an opportunity to learn.
