Basketball star loves game in three ways

Margi Maher is a talented representative basketballer but that’s not the only reason she’s a Junior Sports Star nominee.

Basketball player Marguerite Maher is a Junior Sports Star Nominee. Picture: Justin Sanson

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Margi Maher is a talented representative basketballer but that’s not the only reason she’s Junior Sports Star nominee.

Margi, who plays for the Springwood Scorchers under 16s, decided early on that she was going to give back to her local association in more ways than one after she started playing through the Aussie Hoops program in 2008.

The East Blaxland resident has a family member of the family to thank for her introduction to the game.

Marguerite Maher started playing in 2008.

“My sister, Felicity, played and would always come home saying what a good time she had, so I thought I’d give it a go,” Margi said.

The 15-year-old also coaches a junior team and volunteers to referee matches to ensure the game continues to thrive in Springwood.

“I have a lot of respect for referees and I know I can’t play the sport I love without them so I’m happy to give back and referee the game as well,” she said.

“The game takes a lot of practice and when I coach the main thing I try and do is keep on encouraging the young kids.”

Marguerite coaches and referees as well.

It’s no surprise which of the three is the hardest.

“Definitely refereeing,” she said.

“You can get a lot of players and fans that take it all too serious sometimes.

Her favourite player is Australian-born NBA star Kyrie Irving, who won last year’s championship with LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Dad Chris said she was also a talented soccer player before deciding to put everything into basketball.

“She had to choose between and it wasn’t a surprise to me that she choose basketball,” he said.

“The stadium is a social place and she’s very comfortable there.

“It’s just in her nature to help out wherever she can.

“She’s always been a giving person.”

Marguerite Maher is also a talented soccer player.

● Award details

Categories include Junior Sports Star, Young Sporting Spirit, Team Spirit and Service to Sport

Rebel is the main sponser with Sports TG and Simonds Homes

Nominate now at juniorsportstar.com.au

Entries close October 28