Maddie Hay made her National League debut as a NSW Swift, in 2014 at the age of 19, as a WD/C.
If you’d have told her then that she’d now be playing wing attack for a club that didn’t exist at that point in time, she wouldn’t have believed you.
The now 27-year-old - and GIANTS’ go-to wing attack - is set to bring up her 50th National League game on Sunday at Ken Rosewall Arena.
“It feels like it’s come around really quickly,” Hay said when reflecting on the milestone.
“I don’t feel experienced enough to reach 50 games, but I also feel extremely lucky.
“It’s gone by in a flash and I’ve been so fortunate to play with so many amazing players and people and I’ve really enjoyed it all so far.”
After playing limited game time in her first season, Hay was dropped by the Swifts. She continued to represent the state for the Waratahs in the Australian Netball League (ANL) and then joined the inaugural GIANTS Netball team as a Training Partner.
It was déjà vu for the Sutherland Shire product who was then not re-contracted at the end of the GIANTS’ 2017 season.
Hay begged Head Coach Julie Fitzgerald to let her continue to train. She was given one team singlet and turned up to every session voluntarily.
Her never-give-up attitude paid off and Hay returned to the Training Partner list in 2019. It didn’t take long for her to make her GIANTS debut – replacing Jamie-Lee Price under the blood rule in round one – but she didn’t make it on court for the rest of the season.
Called in for a meeting with Julie Fitzgerald at the end of the season, Hay thought she was being sent off to England to the English Super League. However, the meeting was a set-up with hidden cameras all around and Fitzgerald told Hay - with the assistance of former captain and fellow Sutherland Shire netballer Kim Green - was offered a Super Netball contract.
“It’s a testament to what a journey can look like. It’s not always a straight line to the top,” Hay said.
“But all the way through I’ve enjoyed the level of netball that I’ve played. I’m grateful for my time in ANL, my time in Premier League and now I’m here and I really love where I am."
Hay is proud of her journey to date and considers it a refreshing perspective for those coming through the pathway.
“I think while at times you can feel really disappointed with things you’ve missed out on, just remember that if you’re enjoying what you do, stick with it,” she said.
“I always loved what I was doing with netball, it didn’t matter what level I was at. Of course, I’m always striving to be better and challenge myself in different ways but I definitely never gave up, there’s doors open in any place when you’re not expecting them.”
Hay’s milestone match has been delayed on two occasions - the heartbreaking loss that abruptly ended season 2022 and then missing last weekend’s opening round clash due to injury.
“It’s kind of special that it worked out this way,” Hay said.
“My friends and family will be there, and they get to see what it’s all about.
“I’m just looking forward to playing at home again and having the Orange Army there.”
Hay and the GIANTS will take on the West Coast Fever this Sunday, March 26 at Ken Rosewall Arena. Get your tickets here.
