Donna McGrath, Marsheal Walker and Greg Trevena have been appointed as head coaches of the NSW Under 14 Girls' team for 2022 & 2023. They share their insights on coaching as well as playing at this level.

What does it mean to you to be appointed as the Head Coach of the NSW Under 14 Girls' team?

Donna McGrath: I am very honoured, privileged and ecstatic to be named as one of the coaches for the Under 14 Girls Team. Can’t wait for the program to start!

Marsheal Walker: Being appointed into this role, comes with the responsibility of ensuring each young Softball player in this age group is equipped with the power of knowledge about our sport. Regardless of their age, or abilities, I will work extremely hard to leave a positive experience, in each athlete, to wanting them to be better, and to set realistic & achievable goals. 

Greg Trevena: Very proud to be associated with the NSW athletes, watching them grow and shine through the pathway program.

What excited you most about your appointment?

Donna McGrath: I'm excited about the opportunity to work with the young and upcoming athletes at the start of their softball pathway - to coach with some amazing people and learn more from them.

Marsheal Walker: What excites me most, is the opportunity to work again with young athletes, to witness their achievements, the growth in their skills and confidence, and their desire to improve their skills to be better than their own expectations.

Greg Trevena: Seeing the big growth achievable and talent from our younger age groups excite me. Not to mention having fun, doing the hard yards and smiling about doing things well in softball on and off the field.

What should potential athletes expect upon entering the Under 14 Girls program?

Donna McGrath: I hope they enjoy their time and experience while learning the physical, mental and teamwork side of the game. If they do, then at the end of the program, all players will have their basic skills technically correct and they will be ready to step up through the pathways.

Marsheal Walker: In this age group, I would hope that athletes find an improvement in their mental & skill-based development of the game. I hope to also encourage growth, build and nurture relationships and trust within the team as well as the coaching staff. Hopefully, they too enjoy these experiences of making new friendships, meeting new coaches, and having opportunities to follow, at this young age.

Greg Trevena: A lot of Softball! You will always be on show, working hard, building new friendships, trust, camaraderie, and having a lot of fun.

What advice can you give to aspiring coaches who hope to coach at this level one day?

Donna McGrath: Remember that we all started at the beginning - so do all the accreditations, learn from higher leveled coaches, take all the opportunities that come your way but go out and seek more. Be prepared to hear and learn hard lessons on the way as there is a really good pathway for coaches who are prepared to learn more.

Marsheal Walker: The advice I can give is what I live by. Ensure you keep up to date with current trends by attending as many workshops as possible. Take those opportunities with an open mind, listen, learn, take notes, and never be afraid to ask questions. These platforms also provide an opportunity to network and set foundations with other coaches & umpires. Find a good mentor whom you can confide in and trust.

Greg Trevena: Plan and make sure that the team is your number one focus - allocate time for them. You only have them for a short period, therefore, support and positivity in your environment are paramount. Make the little things count.

Softball NSW would like to congratulate Donna, Marsheal and Greg on their appointments. We know they will do a fantastic job!