THERE was a time when Emma Wright’s netball commitments only allowed her one night off a week.
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The stalwart Magpie, who was steadily plying her trade in defence have converted from a goal a few years earlier, was juggling her Hampden league duties with Victorian Netball League club Ballarat Pride.
“With the later (VNL) games starting at 9.40pm, I wouldn’t get home until 2am and then have to get up for work the next day,” Wright said.
“It was pretty gruelling, but I enjoyed it.”
Wright will take to the court for her 250th top-grade appearance this Saturday when Camperdown hosts Terang Mortlake, a feat which earns her Hampden life membership.
The now-34-year-old started her senior career as a 13-year-old back in 1996. She has made the second-most top grade appearances for the Magpies, behind club great Tracey Baker (301), but holds the overall club games record with 392 across four grades.
A veteran of three losing grand final sides, Wright managed to secure a premiership with the Magpies’ A1 side in 2005.
Playing as a goal shooter in those days, she earned the best-on-court medal for her 22 goals in the win.
She was also part of Camperdown’s Premiers’ Challenge state title win in 2012.
Wright played just one A grade game in 2015 as she dealt with a shoulder injury and, while she still needs it taped each week now, she is back playing consistent netball.
“I just want to thank the club, everyone that helps out there – especially the trainers,” she said. “They get me out on the court.
“Everyone that’s up there at the club, it’s a great place to be.”