LSS nominee Joanne Newman marks 50 years in softball for same club
Joanne Newman still loves turning up for every softball game, 50 years after first lacing up for her first game with her club.
Local Sports Stars
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Joanne Newman has just completed 50 years of playing softball and has no plans of giving up the game she loves so much.
The Revesby Heights Softball Club ace was honoured recently when many of her former team-mates reunited for a masters tournament at Georges River to honour her half century of dedication.
“It was amazing as I had not seen many of them for several years and we did win the bronze medal,” the sprightly Newman said.
The mother of two sons is our nominee for the Inspiration to Sports Award and says she keeps going because of her “love for the game meeting my friends.”
East Hills Liberal MP Wendy Lindsay, who nominated her team-mate, said Newman is a club fixture.
”Over 50 years there have been so many Revesby families that have been graced with her talents,’ Lindsay said. “As pitcher for the team, her role was always the integral heart of the team.
“I can’t believe that her arm still works after pitching softballs for all those years.
“This year is Jo’s 50th consecutive year of playing softball for the Revesby Heights Club.
“Not only is it astounding for someone to have played this sport consecutively for 50 years, she has also coached and managed teams as well.
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“This has involved many, many, hours of training, organisation, dedication and her loyalty to the Revesby Heights Softball club is exemplary.”
“There are very few people in the Sydney world of softball who do not know who Joanne Newman is.”
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Newman began playing when she was nine and represented the state when she was 13. She has played overseas, including New Zealand and Japan.
“Softball is not as popular as it was in those days and numbers are down,” said Newman, who is looking forward to the new season which begins this month.
“I have played in many competitions over the years and glad I am still doing it.”
■ Nominations for the Local Sports Stars competition, proudly sponsored by Featherdale Wildlife Park and Bankstown Sports, is now closed.