Lorraine Tapp, of Milton, was honoured with a Netball New Zealand Service Award at the annual general meeting of Netball New Zealand in Queenstown on Saturday.
The award recognised individuals who made a significant contribution to the game of netball and enhanced it in a specific area or region.
Mrs Tapp was one of 20 people from all over New Zealand to receive the award. One other recipient was from Otago.
She had no idea she would be recognised for the award at the meeting and there were tears when it was announced.
''It was emotional.''
Mrs Tapp was not certain how many years she was involved with netball but believed it would be at least ''30 odd years''.
She had been involved in all aspects of netball in her sporting career, from playing to coaching, managing, working as secretary and volunteering behind the scenes.
''There was only one position I never played over my years, which was wing attack.''
She has coached several teams, including the South Island Secondary School team.
Mrs Tapp was a life member of Netball Otago as well as the South Island Secondary Schools and Netball South Otago.
She no longer played but was still involved with Tokomairiro High School and South Otago teams.
''If I'm needed for something, I'll help out.''
Mrs Tapp did not like to receive accolades but would accept an award when it was given.
She was also happy to see her friend Leigh Gibbs receive a life membership of Netball New Zealand.
''I've known her for years ... it was nice to be there for that.''
The other Otago member who received a service award to New Zealand was Adrienne Ensor, of Dunedin.
