Jade Hunter’s story begins in a small rural town where sport was more than just a weekend activity. It was a way of life. Her parents owned the local sports store and were both heavily involved in coaching and playing, which meant her connection to sport was forged early. From a young age, Jade was surrounded by strong community role models who showed her what it meant to lead with heart and give back through sport.
“I have vivid memories of watching my mum kneel down to coach her junior basketball girls, getting down on their level,” Jade shares. “It’s something I’ve carried with me into every coaching role I’ve taken on.”
Now a Phyical Activity Advisor, coach, mentor, and leader in the sporting community, Jade continues to embody that same passion and care that shaped her as a young girl.
Jade’s sporting story has always been tied to a deep sense of belonging. Netball, basketball, and dance filled her childhood with structure and joy. By age 15, she was playing A Grade senior netball for her local club. Today, she has returned to that very club to coach both junior and senior teams.
A fun fact that sums up her love of legacy, she still wears the same socks she was awarded back in 1995 as a player incentive.
She was also a dancer from a young age, training in hip hop, jazz, and ballet until finishing Year 12. She later taught dance in schools and overseas, and now gets her dance fix by instructing choreographed spin classes at her local gym. She takes great pride in watching her daughter attend the very same dance school she once adored.
Since becoming a mum in 2010, Jade has played netball every year between the ages of 30 and 45. During that time, she has collected multiple grand final wins, some as a player and others as a premiership playing coach.
“The feeling of winning a grand final is the best. The last couple I’ve coached, I’ve focused on getting players to believe in themselves. The experiences we create together are about so much more than the sport itself.”
Last year, her team motto said it all, it's more than netball.
With 22 years of experience as a PE teacher, Jade has coached more teams than she can count. She has guided junior and senior teams through seasons of growth, wins, and challenges.
“I have been so lucky to be mentored by and work alongside exceptional role models in our community. Their knowledge and dedication to volunteer coaching is something I deeply respect.”
In 2024, Jade stepped into a new role at ACHPER Victoria. Around that same time, she joined the Empowered to Lead program after hearing glowing feedback from friends.
“I had just started a new job and was lucky enough to embed the program into my professional development,” she says. “I was excited to grow my knowledge in leadership, but the course exceeded my expectations.”
Jade particularly valued the focus on personal growth and self-understanding.
“It came at the perfect time in my career. It gave me the confidence to back myself and stand firm in my decisions and opinions.”
She also appreciated the sense of connection. “I loved the networking, the sharing, and listening to the stories of other incredible women making an impact in sport. I still check into the PLAG platform regularly to tune into webinars and podcasts.”
In her current role, Jade often mentors and supports teaching staff. The tools from Empowered to Lead have become part of her day-to-day leadership.
“Understanding different character traits and personality types has helped me provide support more effectively. I approach these conversations with more clarity and confidence.”
She has also found a work environment that values wellbeing, something she believes more schools and leaders should prioritise.
“I now work for an organisation that truly values self-care and lifestyle balance. It’s been such a positive change. I’d love to see more support for school leaders, because they play a huge role in shaping school culture and the next generation of athletes.”
Jade continues to pursue professional development and is currently involved in the VicSport LEAP program.
“I’m learning more about leadership every day. I’m asking questions, stepping outside my comfort zone, and growing through new challenges.”
“Always have a crack. What’s the worst that can happen.
Always try your best. That’s all anyone expects.”
Jade’s journey is a reflection of what it truly means to lead through sport. She shows up, lifts others, and believes in the power of shared experiences. Her energy, resilience, and generosity make her an unforgettable part of the Play Like a Girl community.
We are proud to share her story in our Member Spotlight Series 2025.
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