BANGOR’S Debra Devlin has been selected to officiate netball at the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
The 51 year-old’s prestigious appointment to the role of technical official recognises years of dedication, professionalism and excellence within the sport.
Devlin’s selection is a tremendous honour, not only for herself, but also for Northern Ireland, as she joins an elite group of officials chosen by World Netball to oversee the competition at one of the world’s biggest multi-sport events.
Her appointment reflects the high standards she has consistently demonstrated throughout her officiating career and highlights the strength of netball officiating in NI.
While athletes often take centre stage at major international events, technical officials play a vital role in ensuring every match is delivered fairly, professionally and in accordance with the rules of the game.
Their expertise, composure and attention to detail are essential to the success of international competition.
Devlin has been a respected figure within NI Netball for many years, earning admiration for her commitment, knowledge and willingness to support the development of players, coaches
and fellow officials.
Her reputation precedes and despite being relatively new to officiating, she is the one person from NI to be picked as a technical official for Commonwealth netball.
“I only completed my technical official course a few years ago and became an umpire last year,” she explained.
“Europe Netball contacted the chief executive of Netball NI to request applications. Four of us applied and I was the one to be chosen, alongside officials from England, Scotland and Wales.
“It’s an honour because there’s only a certain level you can go to NI. It’s not like the mainland where they have the Super League, so it’s mind- blowing to come from such a small place and be able to officiate at the Commonwealth Games.”
The selection has been warmly welcomed across the netball community, with many describing it as a proud moment for the sport.
It also serves as an inspiration to aspiring officials, demonstrating that commitment and excellence at grassroots level can lead to opportunities on the international stage. Yet Devlin admits a fellow netball enthusiast is her source of inspiration.
“My friend, Jacqueline McKeown, has been a big influence on me because she shares the same love for the sport. We passed the umpire course on the same day and we travel to England to watch Super League games together,” she said.
“After playing netball for Donaghadee in my younger days, it was actually through bumping into Jacqueline that I rediscovered my love for the sport.”
As the countdown to Glasgow 2026 continues, everyone involved in Northern Ireland netball will be cheering Devlin on as she proudly represents her country at one of the sport’s biggest events.
The Commonwealth Games will commence on July 23, running until August 2, with netball set to be staged at the OVO Hydro.
