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Netball hasn’t always been part of the University of Western Australia graduate Habiba Farrag’s life, but her knowledge of the game’s history may give even the biggest netball tragic a run for their money.

The 20-year-old has been interning with some legends of the game at the State Netball Centre, helping to transfer key documents of the game’s past.

“Considering how small Perth is, it’s amazing to see that it’s managed to stay and not be washed out by other sports,” she said.

“It’s really interesting and it goes further back than you think and you see a lot of how society in Western Australia has changed.”

Farrag recently completed an undergraduate course in politics and ancient history at the University of Western Australia and is now putting her knowledge into practice as Netball WA’s Assistant Historical Archivist.

She said delving into the history preserved by History and Heritage Volunteers Elsma Merillo, Helen Robinson and Sally Ironmonger, Shirley Doornbusch and Kay Massey showcases not just the netball journey, but a cultural shift within Western Australia.

“I like seeing how things change, I like seeing the story, it’s always the story.”

“There was a skirt blitz in the 1960’s where they measured the skirts to make sure it was the right length,”

“There was controversy over girls wearing shorts and it’s interesting to see how that stuff has become acceptable today.”

Farrag said the opportunity has extended onto her learnings from UWA, with the experience also helping her see the value of team sport.

“Seeing Elsma and her team working together, it would have been really nice to have that bond, playing together on a team, it’s definitely a team sport.”

“It gives you the broader perspective beyond the textbook.”

The research is on display at the State Netball Centre and will be featured during the West Australian Netball League’s Heritage Round on 17 August.

The research will also be on display during the 2018 Jill McIntosh Medal, a formal celebration of all of Netball WA’s achievements including the awards and recognition for the West Australian Netball League, State Teams, Umpires, Officials and volunteers.

Netball WA is encouraging the sporting community to join the celebration as it celebrates 30 years of the Western Australian Netball League.

Media references

Originally Published at: https://wa.netball.com.au/news/uwa-student-saving-netballs-history/

Mia Herriman

UWA Sport Marketing, Communications and Events Coordinator

6488 4309

[email protected]