Williams on 'giving it a crack’

By Stephanie Smarrelli 
 
For Noongar Ballardong netballer Mia Williams, sport is in her blood. 

The 19-year-old is the daughter of Hawthorn premiership player Mark Williams but she’s forging her own path. 

Representing Victoria at the First Nations Tournament, she’s in her element. 

“Being in this team, we all know what's it’s like to be First Nations,” Williams said. 

“We know what stuff we cop, but I always feel safe when I'm around other mob.  

“I can get out of my comfort zone quicker; that's a massive difference. I've realised I’m more comfortable depending on who I'm around. 

“I know I’m not going to get judged.” 

The midcourter leans on her father for support with navigating sport as a First Nations athlete. 

And there’s a couple of pieces of his advice that have really stuck with her. 

“He always tells my siblings and I to go out there and give it a crack, no matter what happens or the outcome,” she said. 

“He tells us to make sure we put our best foot forward, let our work and skills do the talking. 

“He says stuff like that especially because we’re First Nations, we have to really show our skill because it can be put down a lot by others.” 

As part of Victoria’s First Nations team, Mia takes pride in inspiring the next generation. 

“It’s an amazing opportunity for younger mob to be able to look up to us,” Williams said. 

“My younger sister comes and watches, she's so happy and can't wait for her chance to trial for the team. 

"It's so much more than just netball, it's getting around each other, having a crack and having some fun out there.” 

Williams still remembers how she felt stepping on the court at last year’s tournament.  

"I was really nervous,” she said. 

"I’ve never played a high level of netball, I've never done rep or VNL or anything.  

“I was very nervous to step into that environment, it’s very different from local netball. 

“But it was honestly amazing, I remember when I got the call last year, I was beyond excited and so happy to showcase myself, be around other mob and feel safe.”  

But her Victorian debut almost never happened.  
 
“About a year before last year’s tournament, I tore all the ligaments in my foot and ankle,” she said. 

"I thought I was never going to get back on court. 

“I would never be how I used to be and I was going to quit. 

"But then I found myself, I kept believing in myself, found the right coaches and now I'm so glad I never stepped away from it.”  

Williams’ First Nations heritage is central to who she is and it’s why this tournament means so much to her. 

“It’s so much bigger than netball,” she said. 

“It's about experiencing culture, celebrating, showing up and getting around each other.  

“The tournament is the most I've ever been around other mobs and there's a real connection I feel to them." 

Off the court, Williams doesn't stray far from sport, working at the Hawthorn Football Club in their Community Project Team. 

“I'm running facilities and helping run programs with different kids,” she said. 

“Especially First Nations kids, there's a whole program called Tyetdji and we work with different First Nations groups. 

Williams is thankful the club embraces First Nations culture. 

“Every Monday I go to a smoking ceremony at work,” she said. 

“I feel like I'm getting all the bad spirits away, bringing good energy, being around other mob and reflecting. 

"It's one of the best things, I love it so much, anyone in the community can attend.” 

Outside of work, Williams dedicates her time to learning. 

“I’m studying at VACSAL (Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association) doing a certificate of community services,” she said. 

“I was always the type who didn't like school but when I went to VACSAL I felt safe. 

“It was such a warm environment to be in with all the different mobs and cultures. 

“It was a welcoming space and that's helped me so much.”