As most of you know, words are rarely hard to come by for me…. but this news has left me struggling.
Struggling to comprehend the loss of someone I have always considered a good friend.
I was informed today of the passing of Maddy McCrum, after a long battle with her health.
From the moment Maddy started training with VBVA, we knew we had a star among us. Tall and smart, with the reactions of a cat. Maddy had an instant impact on the court. She had just as much of an impact off it; a beautiful person, to all who met her.
Maddy, a member of the VBVA crew from 2010, went on to become one of our coaches, both on the beach and at Lauriston Girls.
Unfortunately Maddy’s health restricted her abundant potential as a player, but she passed on her knowledge in spades; stepping up to help Evie make a AA final at 14 in season 2019/20… exactly a year after helping Lucia break into AAA.
I last saw Maddy at St Kilda Festival, only a few weeks ago. She was in a good place; her smile radiated, her beautiful personality, as always, on display. She was happy.
I will remember Maddy as an absolutely beautiful soul who has left an indelible mark on me, my daughter, and undoubtedly on all of you who knew her. Gone far too early.
Our thoughts are with the McCrum family.
Rest in Peace Maddy; you will be missed by the entire beach community.
