FROM HEDLAND TO NEW ZEALAND: SUMMER LOCKYER TO REPRESENT AUSTRALIA
Young Port Hedland netballer Summer Lockyer is preparing to take her game across the Tasman after being selected to represent Australia at an international netball tournament in New Zealand.
The talented goal defence earned her place after attending trials in Brisbane, where she was initially named as an emergency player before being called into the team.
“I went to Brisbane and did the trials. I didn’t get selected at first, but I was on the emergency list in case anyone dropped out,” Summer said.
“Some people dropped out, and then they picked me.”
The selection follows a strong local season for Summer, who helped the Eagles under-12s defeat Illusions 10–6 in their grand final.
Summer’s defensive pressure and ability to intercept the ball contributed to the victory—and she was later surprised to hear her name called as the game’s most valuable player.
“I’m a quick player, so I try to get intercepts and passes for my team. After the game, we got our medals—and I won MVP.”
Summer’s love of netball began by watching members of her family play. She has since competed in Port Hedland, Newman and Brisbane, developing her skills across several teams and age groups.
She said she plans to continue training ahead of the New Zealand tournament, despite the local club season coming to an end.
“I’m going to try to keep a good mindset, like, ‘We can do this,’” she said.
“I don’t want to stop training just because my club isn’t training anymore. I want to keep training here so I’m ready.”
Summer’s mum, Danielle Lockyer, is also an assistant coach with the Eagles under-12s and previously coached the Borolu under-12s team in Brisbane.
Danielle said Summer had grown into a more confident and well-rounded team player, supported by coaches across the Port Hedland netball community.
“The opportunities are a lot less here than they would be in the city, but we’re lucky to have so many different coaches step in, offer support and help develop her as a player.”
Danielle said the international opportunity would open Summer’s eyes to what is possible and give her valuable experience for the future.
Summer’s family is now calling on the community to help get her to New Zealand. Donations will support the costs of the trip and help foster this deadly young talent as she takes the next step in her sporting journey.
Every contribution, big or small, will help give a young athlete from the Northwest the chance to compete internationally and continue pursuing her netball dreams.
For Summer, the goal is simple: keep training, keep earning selections and keep doing what she loves.
“I want to go out there, be myself and do sports,” she said.
Community members can donate through the family’s GoFundMe page.