By Henry Alt
Queensland Firebird in-waiting Gemma Hutchings is no ordinary defender.
The 19-year-old is quickly making a name for herself as one of Queensland’s brightest netball prospects, with a vertical leap refined on the high-jump mat, a Fast5 Youth Commonwealth Games gold already around her neck and a dream of one day stepping out on court in purple.
Balancing her studies in exercise physiology at the University of Queensland with commitments to the Kedron Wavell Cougars HART Premier League Sapphire division team and the Queensland Firebirds Futures in Super Netball Reserves, Hutchings is making every moment count.
"I feel honoured to be a part of this program," Hutchings said of her position in the Netball Queensland pathways.
"My favourite memories have come from under-age nationals and experiencing the high-performance environment.
"I aspire to wear the purple dress and am excited where the future might lead."
Hutchings' dream certainly feels within reach.
Her standout aerial prowess and explosive speed meant she was a crucial member of Australia’s Fast5 gold medal-winning side at the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games, a memory that remains vivid.
"It was an incredible experience and one that I will never forget. I often find myself thinking back to the trip," she said.
"I've made lifelong friendships, and it gave me an opportunity to play alongside girls from across the country.
"It made me love the game more."
Hutchings was an accomplished track and field athlete before netball became her primary focus. She excelled in high jump, hurdles and long jump at school and state levels - even breaking a 54-year-old CaSSSA high jump mark before deciding to concentrate on netball full-time.
That athletic background, especially in high jump, has become a defining element of her game.
"I believe my vertical jump and the development of it through high jump has become a big part of my game in the defensive end," Hutchings said.
"My strengths are my ability to contest the ball in the air and my speed onto the ball."
A style that mirrors one of her netball idols - Firebirds co-captain Ruby Bakewell-Doran - another defender who came through the Queensland system and is now an established Suncorp Super Netball star.
"Ruby is a great role model of where hard work can take you. She contests everything and never gives up," Hutchings said.
That same determination shines through in Hutchings’ academic journey. Studying exercise physiology has not only helped her juggle the demands of being a student-athlete but also given her valuable insights into her own physical performance and growth.
"I’m able to use what I learn at uni and at training together to help improve both my performance and academics," she said.
"Next year, I’m looking to switch to psychology and hopefully do some travel in the off-season."
On the court, Hutchings’ focus is fixed on having a strong season in the HPNL with Cougars, making gains through the Futures program, and building toward her long-term goal in earning an SSN training partner position.
For young netballers aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Hutchings has one clear message.
"Enjoy every moment in the program, be your own biggest fan. You always play better when you enjoy what you’re doing," she said.
"The path to success looks different for everyone. It will be tough, but if you keep working hard you never know where it could take you."
And for Hutchings, where she hopes that path ultimately leads is clear.
"To one day run out on court as a Firebird in front of a home crowd it would be an honour and a privilege. I’m not sure little Gemma would believe it though."
Watch Hutchings and her Firebirds Futures teammates in the Super Netball Reserves this weekend at Nissan Arena when they face the Sunshine Coast Lightning Bolts from 7.30pm on Saturday.
All Firebirds Futures home matches will be live streamed via NetballQTV. Click here for more information.
