Representative netballer shares love of the game with her mum

Katlyn Clarke prides herself on being a team player. The Mascot representative netball player has been known to turn up even when sick so she doesn’t let her side down.

Mascot 11 year old Katlyn Clarke plays Rep Netball for NSW and South Sydney, as well as OzTag with South Sydney and little athletics with the Randwick-Botany club. Picture: John Appleyard

Katlyn Clarke prides herself on being a team player. Even when she’s sick, the Mascot representative netball player has been known to turn up so she doesn’t let her side down.

It’s that pride and sense of team spirit which has seen Katlyn nominated for the Junior Sports Star awards this week.

As wing attack and centre for the City of Sydney Netball Association, Katlyn said she also enjoys making her mark individually on the court.

“I like running around and controlling the game, as well as making friends and playing as a team.”

Katlyn Clarke in action at training with her City of Sydney Netball rep team. Picture: John Appleyard

The 11-year old started out with Mascot netball club when she was six before making the switch to the Sydney representative side, and hasn’t missed a game for the past two years.

“I love the Sydney Swifts netball team and my favourite player is Paige Hadley ... she plays the same positions I do and is my idol. I’d love to go pro like her one day.” Mum Heather Marshall has played netball her whole life, and as part of the South Sydney Juniors club, enjoys bonding over the game with her daughter.

“I’m so proud to see her doing what she loves ... just watching her excel and learn and improve each time she takes to the court,” Heather said.

Katlyn Clarke (far left) with her team mates at Mascot Junior Rugby League club in 2015. Picture: John Appleyard

Although netball is her first love, Katlyn is a multi-talented young sportswoman, taking part in all the events on offer through Randwick Botany Little Athletics Club.

“I really enjoy triple jump, shot put and long distance running ... the 800m is my favourite.”

Katlyn has also represented South Sydney at the OzTag state cup and at this year’s national titles.

“Sport is a huge part of my life ... I just want to get out there and play.”