Matt Chambers was one of the NNZ Service Award recipients – and it’s no surprise - he has devoted over 18 years to the sport both as an umpire and an umpire convenor and has an unwavering commitment to the Netball Manurewa community.
Matt began his netball career over 30 years ago, participating in men’s and mixed netball, as well as indoor. He notes a highlight was training against Silver Ferns legends Bernice Mene and Temepara George back in the 90s.
“As a goal shooter, I faced challenges playing against our Silver Ferns - not an easy task - but I always finished in awe of their skills,” says Matt. These early experiences helped him develop respect for the game and its top players.
In 2005, Matt transitioned from playing to umpiring, thanks to an invitation from a friend, and he quickly became a familiar face at Netball Manurewa.
“I took up umpiring to help our men’s netball teams, but I quickly found that I enjoyed the challenge and the opportunity to support the sport in a different way,” Matt explains. This marked the beginning of his involvement with the Netball NZ Umpire Pathway.
Matt dedicates approximately 20 hours per week during the season to his role and his efforts have significantly contributed to the growth and engagement of umpires at Manurewa.
His responsibilities include overseeing the development of new umpires, supporting them through the pathway, and ensuring that they receive training and encouragement. He is also a well-respected NZ Theory Level Umpire.
Since joining the Netball Manurewa Umpire Executive Committee in 2011, Matt has embraced the Umpire Centred Coaching approach to umpire development, evidenced by the great group of new umpires coming through the umpire pathway at the Centre.
“I’ve seen firsthand how our umpire development initiatives come alive and benefit both our umpires and players. I value the people and the netball community here in Manurewa. It’s amazing to see our umpires at work,” he says.
Matt's impact extends beyond his official duties. He played a crucial role in the Rangatahi Wero Tournament, a special competition dedicated to a young umpire, Israel Hoterene-Rakete, who passed away three years ago.
The tournament, which featured 16 local high school teams, was organised in memory of Israel with his family attending the opening ceremony.
“The tournament was a heartfelt tribute and had amazing vibes, and it was incredible to see the support from the local community. The registration fees collected were donated to Israel’s family as a gesture of support.”
In Matt’s nomination for the NNZ Service Award, Netball Manurewa say it’s his ‘infectious enthusiasm, genuine connection and face to face approach with people – kanohi ki kanohi, and ongoing dedication’ that make him a standout leader in the netball community.
If you are interested in becoming a netball umpire and want to better understand the Netball New Zealand Umpire Pathway, contact your Zone Umpire Lead (Netball New Zealand (netballnz.co.nz)