Congratulations to our newest life member Kylie Spears. 

 In recognition of the invaluable contribution, Kylie has made to the association, demonstrated ongoing commitment, and bought the MENA values to life through everything she has done.  Including being instrumental in gaining funding for the Stadium, being a powerhouse with everything she put her mind to whether that be policy writing, baking 150 cupcakes for Blue or Pink Day, or running committee meetings. Kylie’s ability to connect easily with everyone involved whether it be a brand new 7-year-old who had just started playing to a federal politician is inspiring

She joins a valuable group and a very select group of MENA Life Members.  Congratulations and thank you, Kylie.

Kylie first entered the MENA community through the Southwood Netball club where her two girls were players. Kylie joined the MENA Committee in 2008 and became Secretary in 2009 and President in 2010 where she remained until June 2021. Anyone who knows Kylie knows once she puts her mind to something she finds a way to make things happen.  

As president Kylie was instrumental in gaining funding for the Stadium from Federal and Local Governments so much so that we have joked about naming rights.  

She moved MENA from a purely volunteer-run organisation to now employing staff.  She worked tirelessly behind the scenes running committee meetings, reviewing policy and papers, and baking more than 150 cupcakes for Pink and Blue Day. Kylie is and will always be Mrs. MENA!!! People know she is at the courts by just hearing her laugh!!! 

Kylie’s ability to connect easily with everyone involved whether it be a brand new 7-year-old who had just started playing to a federal politician is inspiring and while Kylie isn’t actively on our MENA committee presently, she is always available for a chat whether about netball or something else.  

Jan Tacey recalled that Kylie had a vision for netball in the eastern suburbs and has worked tirelessly to put things in place and she feels she has exceeded what she set out to do. I think we would all agree with that.  

Like many others Jan also commented that she had never met anyone like Kylie – she was a dog with a bone when she sets her mind to something she goes after it. The Stadium we see ourselves enjoying today. Kylie was going to get this stadium for the players come hell or high water. 

Kylie has said herself that she couldn’t have achieved everything she has at MENA without her family so we would also like to extend our thanks to Mal, Caitlyn, and Amy for sharing your wife and mum with MENA for many years.  

MENA highly values and appreciates all that Kylie has contributed to our Association and sincerely thanks her for everything she has done.  

Kylie joins a select group of MENA people. Thank you Kylie for your dedication to MENA as the President and congratulations to Kylie for being presented with Life Membership of our Association.