Sporting community pays tribute to 'woman of integrity' and 'champion of emerging talent'

Marg McGee died peacefully at Hospice last week

Tributes continue to be paid to a ‘superb netballer’ and ‘champion of emerging talent’ following her death last week.

Sports clubs on the Isle of Man have been remembering the contribution made by Marg McGee who died peacefully at Hospice, on 9 October, following a short illness after valiantly fighting cancer for several years.

As well as being a stalwart netballer, Marg helped nurture players of all ages and abilities and was crucial in the creation of many successful local sporting initiatives including 'Douglas Minis' for Douglas Rugby Club, the Ballasalla Netball Club and the Young Farmers Netball Club. 

Her positive influence on the development of players, and local sport, was seen at national level too when she became team manager for the Isle of Man's first ever fore into international competition within Europe Netball.

'Our lives are better for having known her'

Isle of Man Netball described her as a 'woman of integrity' - a minute's silence was held at the beginning of each game over the weekend so that those on and off court could reminisce about their shared memories.

"Marg was a superb netballer - a great player both tactically and physically, a fierce competitor, a wonderful team player and a champion of emerging talent.

"One of the founding members of Ballasalla Netball Club, Marg shared her love of the game with those with whom she played. 

"Never one to be inactive, Marg played regularly for Ballasalla until only a few years ago. 

"On court, she was always supportive of her team, offering advice and encouragement with a well-timed comment, cheer, or smile. She enjoyed the success she achieved with Ballasalla and was always generous in defeat.

"She inspired and encouraged so many young players, making sure they were noticed and given their chance to develop and succeed.

"Marg was always willing to share her expertise and supported other clubs like Young Farmers Netball Club to get up and running.

"Marg was a woman of integrity. She bought honesty, reason, and perspective to everything she did. She was the person you could talk to no matter what age. She was always so positive, supportive, and witty. She looked to the future without forgetting to appreciate the moment.

"Marg was an infinitely kind, funny, warm, friend to so many involved in IOM Netball. For those who knew her well it was a privilege to call her ‘friend.’"

"Our lives are better for having known her and we shall miss her greatly." - Isle of Man Netball

"Sorely missed by all our players past and present"

The Young Farmers Netball Team adds it was 'deeply saddened' to hear of her death saying she 'worked tirelessly' through coaching, umpiring and supporting players on the Island.

"Marg obviously saw something in the bunch of hap hazard, clumsy, over enthusiastic group of young farmers that turned up to train, who could barely catch a ball never mind play against proper teams.

"We will never be able to thank Marg enough for endless support and encouragement and most of all her patience, helping develop us into the team we are today, playing competitive games in the first division. 

"Even recently Marg would pop along to watch some of our games (unannounced), which we loved as it would give us that extra bit of determination, she always found the right words of encouragement or calming tone to spur us on depending on how the game was going."

"Marg will be sorely missed by all of our players past and present." - Young Farmers Netball

"Integral part of our rugby family"

Douglas Rugby Club has described her as a 'beloved member' and a 'cherished presence in the rugby community'. 

"Her friendly smile and warm welcome have graced our club for many years and her weekends spent on the touchline, cheering Craig and Mark (her sons), have left an indelible mark on our hearts.

"Marg was an integral part of the foundation of Douglas Minis, helping fundraising and organising the early tours, and later joining the board of the club. 

"At the club's 150th anniversary Marg deservedly became an honorary 'Life Member'."

"Her love and support enriched our club, making her an integral part of our rugby family." - Douglas Rugby Club

The funeral service for Marg will take place at 1pm on 20 October at Marown Church. 

It will also be streamed to Douglas Rugby Club as the church is likely to exceed capacity. 

The wearing of club ties, or colours, is welcomed.