Netball Dreamz - How it came about?

Leeanne always wanted to write a book series like Netball Dreamz . Trouble was, she didn’t feel qualified to write the “how to play” section. Sure, she knew about netball, but there is a big difference between knowing something and being an expert.

Leeanne worked with Gillian as an apprentice coach three years ago. At their very first training session together, she told Gillian about the idea for Netball Dreamz; a story including coaching instructions.

Gillian’s response was: “Go for it.”

Leeanne went home and wrote the first page of, A book, a dream, a plan.
A year later, she finally showed Gillian those first 600 words.

It took no time at all for Gillian to say, “I love it. Let’s do it!

This book is the first in the Netball Dreamz series, so don’t worry, you’ll get to find out exactly what happens to Sally & Nat – and all your favourite characters!

In fact, just like last time, the first pages of their new book are waiting patiently in the computer. 

Leeanne and Gillian hope you love the story. They definitely want you to try the exercises.
And remember: the more you practise the better netballer you will become.
 

Leeanne Vernon

Leeanne is the seventh of nine children; six brothers and two sisters. Growing up, netball and writing were the best things in her life.

She started playing netball when she was 8 years old.

She wrote her first play in grade five.  Ambitiously, she tried to write her first book in Form 2 (Year nine).

Leeanne has played or coached netball ever since. However, it took her nearly thirty years, two occupations and three children, before she got the opportunity to study Professional Writing and Editing, and fulfil her dream of becoming a writer. 

Since then, Leeanne has had two books published; one a make-up book for young girls and the other about fishing. In co-writing: a book, a dream, a plan, Leeanne has had the opportunity to combine her two greatest loves: writing and netball.
 

Gillian Lee

Gillian is the youngest of three daughters, and she spent Saturday mornings, and many nights, watching her sisters and mother playing netball. Gillian had one wish, to be old enough to play netball herself. 

It wasn’t until she was in grade five that she finally got her opportunity, and what a stunning debut, playing goaler and winning the grand final. 

As soon as Gillian could compete as an adult, the four members of her family played in a team called, MKs – that’s mums and kids.

But Gillian was always destined for greater things. She was chosen for the under 16’s representative team to play in the city. Here she was selected for the Victorian Under 16’s team as a defender and her elite netball journey began. She played in many great teams along the way, including the Australian Under 21’s. See Gillian’s complete playing and coaching history at www.netskills.com.au.

When Gillian first started playing netball, her mother told her: “go mad, go and do everything’, and as far as netball is concerned, Gillian has done just that.

Gillian is now a respected coach and coach educator. She has written several coaching manuals and is a regular presenter at the coaches’ seminars.  All Gillian's coaching resources are available at: www.netskills.com.au.