MARGARET Baldwin has coached 76 premiership teams during her time at Mosman Park Netball Club.
She started volunteering at the club in 1961 and over the years has taken on various roles including coaching, secretary and treasurer.
“It (the club) was founded in 1953 and I joined as a kid in 1957 as a player, then I progressed into coaching,” she said.
“Then I became secretary in 1961 and I’ve been secretary ever since.”
Mrs Baldwin has also been coaching at Mosman Park Primary School for 45 years, along with running a junior cricket team for 42 years.
“I enjoy coaching and the kids that I coach,” she said.
"The great thing about it is running into girls that I coached years ago, who are now coaching their daughters. That gives me the greatest thrill.
She was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2005 for her contribution to the community. She has also been on the executive of the Perth Netball Association.
“I think netball is a sport that can help break down a lot of barriers,” she said. “You make a lot of friends and for life as well.
“Our club takes boarders from St Hilda’s and Iona, and it gives them an opportunity to mix with the community and make new friends.
“We celebrate our 60th anniversary next year.”
She thanked everyone who had helped along the way, especially her late husband who had been her support for many years.
Mrs Baldwin was recognised at a Department of Sport and Recreation’s volunteers breakfast last month.
She was presented with a special pin to acknowledge her 50 years of volunteering with the Mosman Park Netball Club.
She encouraged new players who want to join the club to come along to the first training session on February 15.
For more information, call Margaret on 9384 1875.