Mount Waverley, Melbourne — The community of Mount Waverley is united in grief following the heartbreaking loss of Tahlia Briggs, a gifted young netballer whose life was tragically cut short. Tahlia’s passing has sent shockwaves through her community, as she was not only known for her remarkable athletic talent but also for her leadership, sportsmanship, and deep love for the game of netball. Her untimely death has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who knew her, and the impact she made on and off the court will forever be remembered.
A proud member of the Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL), Tahlia was celebrated not just for her netball skills but for the grace, humility, and passion she brought to every match. Her fierce competitive spirit, combined with her kind heart, made her a standout player and an inspiring teammate. Whether in the heat of a close match or during early morning training sessions, Tahlia always gave her best—pushing herself and her team to reach their full potential.
Her teammates remember Tahlia as a driven and fearless player who could always be counted on to lead by example. “Tahlia wasn’t just a great netballer—she was the soul of our team,” one of her teammates shared. “She lifted everyone around her with her energy, her smile, and her belief that we were always capable of more.” Tahlia’s enthusiasm for the game and her ability to motivate others made her an invaluable asset to her team. Her presence on the court was as impactful as her efforts off it, and her teammates could always count on her to show up with a positive attitude and an unwavering belief in the power of teamwork.
Off the court, Tahlia’s impact was equally profound. She dedicated her time and energy to mentoring and coaching younger players, fostering a love for netball in the next generation of athletes. Tahlia’s patience, kindness, and ability to inspire others created a lasting impression on all those she mentored. Her passion for the sport extended far beyond her own ambitions—she played to build others up, to create a team culture of unity, and to give back to the game that had given her so much. Tahlia’s dedication to community sport, her willingness to share her knowledge and experience, and her ability to lift others made her a beloved figure in her community.
Her coaches describe her as mature beyond her years, a quiet leader with a relentless work ethic. Tahlia’s focus was always on the success of the team, and she had the rare ability to put the needs of others before her own. Her humility and unshakable team spirit made her a role model for her peers, and her impact on the teams she played for will never be forgotten. Tahlia’s coaches admired her not just for her athletic ability but for the way she brought a sense of unity and support to the court. She was the kind of player who led with her actions, always striving to improve and inspire those around her.
In the days since her passing, social media has been flooded with messages of sorrow and remembrance from those whose lives Tahlia touched. Her coaches, teammates, and even rival players have shared heartfelt tributes to the young woman they respected as both a fierce competitor and a compassionate person. Stories of her dedication to the sport, her kindness to others, and her infectious positivity have filled social media feeds, each post a testament to the incredible legacy she leaves behind.
The Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL) released an official statement expressing their sorrow over Tahlia’s passing. “Tahlia was a cherished member of our netball family whose passion and positivity left an indelible mark,” the league stated. “Her absence will be felt deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing her.” The impact Tahlia had on the netball community, not just as a player but as a person, is immeasurable, and her loss is deeply felt by all who had the honor of working alongside her.
Plans are already underway to honor Tahlia’s memory in a meaningful way. The netball community has announced that a memorial match will be held in her honor, celebrating her love for the game and the legacy she leaves behind. In addition to the match, the establishment of a junior coaching scholarship in Tahlia’s name will ensure that her spirit of generosity and dedication to helping others continues to inspire future generations of athletes. Through these efforts, Tahlia’s love for netball and her commitment to building others up will live on, keeping her memory alive in the hearts of those who follow in her footsteps.
As the Mount Waverley community mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, the memory of Tahlia Briggs will remain etched in the hearts of all who knew her. Her drive, her warmth, and her unshakable team spirit are qualities that will forever be remembered and celebrated. Though Tahlia’s time with us was far too brief, the impact she made in her 20 years was immeasurable. Her light continues to shine in the memories shared by those who loved her, and the lessons she imparted will continue to inspire those she left behind.
Gone far too soon, but never forgotten. Rest in peace, Tahlia. Your spirit lives on in every heart you touched, and your legacy will continue to inspire the netball community and beyond. You were a beacon of light, a leader, and a friend, and your memory will forever be cherished. Your love for the sport, your generosity, and your unwavering belief in others will never fade.
