Netball pioneer remembered as a queen of the court

Described as a queen on and off the court, Sandra Hoskins has been remembered for her unrivalled contribution to local netball.

Baw Baw Shire mayor Annemarie McCabe acknowledged Sandra for her significant involvement and dedication to the advancement of netball in the region at this month’s council meeting. She also offered condolences to her family, friends and the netball community.

Cr McCabe said Sandra, who died on December 14, was a life member of both the Warragul and District Netball Association and Warragul and District Indoor Netball Association.

She also served on several of council’s project reference groups to improve facilities at the Warragul Leisure Centre for the community.

Cr Jazmin Tauru said “the contribution Sandra made to local netball for more than half a century and to the Baw Baw community was outstanding, and possible unrivalled in local sport”.

Cr Tauru said Warragul and District Indoor Netball Association had described her as “a queen on and off the court”.

“The voluntary hours she injected into netball helped make netball the largest participatory sport in the area and the thriving sport and community it was,” Cr Tauru said.

“With the sudden death of Sandra just before Christmas, it’s important we stop, reflect and celebrate her life and her achievements.”

“It’s volunteers like Sandra that contribute to the fabric of life that we know,” she said.

Starting out in marching, Sandra (nee Cottrell) won a Victorian title for best leader.

Married to Bob and having three girls, Cr Tauru said Sandra was “an absolute fixture” at the Burke St netball courts as well as serving as indoor association president for 33 years.

“I’m sure the stories of this incredible and notable local woman of Baw Baw will be shared and remembered,” concluded Cr Tauru.