Parmenter recognised with Rising Star award
IN her debut season GIANTS wing defence, Amy Parmenter claimed the Suncorp Super Netball Rising Star award winning from the likes of Cara Koenen, Kim Jenner and Tara Hinchliffe. Parmenter made a real splash for the GIANTS with her dynamic movement, strong drives and strength.
After being trialled in centre, Parmenter migrated into wing defence and did not skip a beat adding to the defensive structure of the GIANTS alongside Kristiana Manu’a and Sam Poolman. Parmenter took every opportunity that came her way with open hands racking up the intercepts and forcing turnovers with her intense pressure and ability to shadow opposition attackers.
Overawed by the award, Parmenter reflected on the year that was, in particular her journey to the top.
“This year has been an absolute dream come true,” she said. “I can’t even believe that I got to go out onto the court against some of these girls. “This year has been absolutely unbelievable, so pumped to get the chance.”
She reminisced on the impact Australian Diamonds and Queensland Firebirds wing defence Gabi Simpson has had on her career and game style.
“I was just talking to Gabi, I remember she was my idol as a kid up until … she still is my idol. I remember one of the first times I met her we went to a sushi train, I had to eat as many sushi trains as she was eating so I could be a Diamond too,” she said.
Surrounded by a host of key talent in the likes of English international goaler, Jo Harten and the recently retired Kim Green the 22-year-old stepped into a strong team filled with class and experience. The wing defence did not hold back on the thanks giving a shout out to veteran coach and netball great Julie Fitzgerald for giving her a chance at Suncorp Super Netball level while also paying a special thanks to her father who has helped support her netball journey thus far.
“So every single game is a highlight for me,” Parmenter said. “I want to thank Julie, thank you for giving me a shot.. “She has reminded me that the first year doesn’t really count but it’s about what I do next year, hopefully I can keep making her proud. “To all the girls thank you for all of the support.”