The wrong turn that shaped a life in sport for Rita Parsons

Across the generations, the fundamental strength of every single sports club is defined by its ability to command the devotion of people who commit their time, energy and talents to its service.

Without such service, no sports club can survive, let alone thrive. Usually, these people form the bedrock of the club and have often served at all levels — as players, coaches, administrators, and supporters.

Sometimes, indeed, they fill all of those roles at the same time. The very best of sports clubs both mine and cultivate this spirit of volunteerism.