GIANTS Netball captain Kim Green has announced that 2019 will be the final season of her distinguished career.
Since entering the elite level in 2003, Green has established herself as one of the biggest names in the sport and one of the most respected athletes in the country.
It has been a decorated career for the Sutherland local, debuting for Australia in 2008 and going on to make 74 appearances for the Diamonds, including a Commonwealth Games Gold Medal (2014) and two Netball World Cup titles (2011 and 2015).
It wasn’t only on the international stage that Green shined bright, having been named as the 2014 Trans-Tasman League co-MVP, 2014 Trans-Tasman Netball League All-Stars Team and the 2013-2014 Swifts Most Valuable Player.
The experienced midcourter has played 211 elite-level games and will line up for the 212th time this Saturday against the West Coast Fever at Qudos Bank Arena in the final round of the Suncorp Super Netball season.
Having made her elite debut as a school student, Green said the time is right to announce she’s stepping away from the game.
“It’s been an incredible 17 years playing the game I love at this level and I’ve loved every minute of it,” said Green.
“I’ve made lifelong friends and the times I’ve spent with teammates, coaches and support staff are memories that will stay with me forever.
“I’m fortunate enough to have exciting projects that I have been helping develop over a number of years within this industry and I am thrilled to now be able to devote my time to growing women’s sport across a global community.
“Netball has given me so much and it’s now time for me to give back.”
Coach Julie Fitzgerald has paid tribute to Green, who she first coached as a 16-year-old.
“Kim has been the face of Netball in New South Wales for a number of years and has done an incredible amount to grow our sport,” said Fitzgerald.
“She’s been a brilliant leader both on and off the court and has been pivotal in setting up the GIANTS as a new club.
“Kim is well prepared and I have no doubt she’ll be a huge success in the next chapter of her life in business and whatever else she turns her hand to.”
The GIANTS currently sit in fourth position on the Suncorp Super Netball ladder, just one point ahead of the Collingwood Magpies.
Sports fans from across the state are encouraged to get along and support Green this Saturday in what could be her last game in Sydney as the GIANTS host the West Coast Fever at Qudos Bank Arena.
GIANTS members and supporters are encouraged to join in the celebration of Green’s career using #ThanksKim across the week on social media.
