The latest story about the Yass Netball Association (Yass Netball Association rejects call for “overhaul” of voluntary board) reminds me of that principle.

While I may not know all the details and context of the inner workings of YNA, I understand that members have different opinions about how an organisation should be run.

But I also see that they have a common goal: to grow netball in Yass Valley, especially for juniors.

In the midst of everyday running of an association, members sometimes forget the purpose of why they signed up.

The YNA, like many other associations and sporting groups in Yass, is a voluntary effort and, at times, members also forget that.

When I moved to Yass, one of the biggest surprises was the sporting culture, particularly its many volunteers who help keep it going and growing.

For a town this size, the number of sports, teams, players and frequency of matches rival Cairns – the place I grew up. Considering the population difference – more than 100,000 – that is a major point.

Volunteers who do it for a significant amount of time do it for none other than passion.

Still, no one comes into a position knowing everything. At times, then, it may seem as though some may be making it up as they go along, or doing it for other reasons that don’t benefit the majority.

But as with any association, they are also platforms to voice one’s ideas about improvements, as well as voicing concerns and finding solutions to them.

From my talk with YNA president Gennene Kemp, netball numbers are growing each year.

The NetSetGo programme introduced more than a year ago has also helped participation.

The next YNA AGM is on Sunday, February 4 and I hope all members see it as an opportunity to come together to work on the big picture – that is, to grow netball in Yass Valley.

In doing so, it would also grow the sporting culture in Yass and make it a stronger sporting hub of the region, something Yass Valley Council has begun with its Walker Park strategic planning.