YOU'D be forgiven for thinking Steph Townsend is a multiple Wilma Wallace medallist.
But for the Nirranda playing coach - one of the Warrnambool and District league's most damaging goalers - it's been a case of always the bridesmaid. Until now.
The Blues premiership mentor held off close friend and teammate Jo Couch to clinch her maiden league netball best and fairest on Thursday night, romping to a five-vote triumph.
The Nirranda one-two summed up the club's dominant campaign. The Blues were untouchable, winning all 13 matches en route to a minor premiership.
I've been the bridesmaid quite a few times. It's honouring, it's humbling.
- Steph Townsend
Townsend, who has been at the helm for five seasons, was "lost for words" upon receiving the award.
"It's great, it's surreal. A huge congratulations in order for Jo, she's a top, top player and she's proven that in that she's been in the top five players in the league since she's come across," she said.
"I've been the bridesmaid quite a few times. It's honouring, it's humbling.
"With it being named after Wilma Wallace, she's obviously a stalwart at Nirranda so it's something pretty cool to take home back to the club."
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Townsend said despite her pride she didn't play for individual awards and instead heaped praise on her teammates.
Couch said Townsend - a long-term teammate - had enjoyed her best season in goal attack and was a deserving winner.
"It was definitely a surprise. To come second to Steph is unreal, she's had an amazing season," the gun midcourter mused.
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Nick Ansell
Nick Ansell is a sports journalist at the Warrnambool Standard.
Nick Ansell is a sports journalist at the Warrnambool Standard.
