Debbie Grove was one day asked to umpire a district junior game, but little did she know it would be the first step on her journey to the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be going to be the pinnacle of our sport,” Debbie said.
“Being there was something that I will never forget. I’ve done over 25 international events during my career, but nothing will beat Beijing.
“That year was actually the last time softball appeared at the Olympics, but it’s exciting to think it will be back if the re-scheduled event goes ahead in 2021.
“I’ve never been involved to get recognition from other people, I’ve done it because of my love for the game.”
Some people would describe Debbie as a pioneer for the sport in Cohuna having overseen its growth since arriving about two decades ago.
“When I first arrived in town from Melbourne there wasn’t any softball, so I wanted to give locals the chance to play a game I loved as a kid,” Debbie said.
“And soon enough we were holding regional championships which was really exciting.
“I ended up giving up playing because there was no one else to umpire games and I didn’t want our youngest players to miss out.”
Debbie’s passion for the development the game remains as strong as ever as she is currently Softball Australia’s Umpire in Chief (Development).
“I love being able to help people improve on their skills,” she said.
“I’ve been part of the national program for 15 years and it’s incredible just how much the sport has grown.”
Debbie’s AM award is only the latest in a long list of achievements which include being inducted to the Softball Australia Hall of Fame in 2013 and being awarded life membership in 2018.
But you shouldn’t expect her to slow down anytime soon.
“My passion for the game is still very strong,” she said.
“I love the interaction of the team sport and the camaraderie that’s on display.
“Softball plays a big part in my life and it always will.”
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