Joining her for this weekend's matches is fellow Netball Queensland umpire Claire Kleinschmidt, in double boost for the state’s officiating program.
A leading Queensland umpire for over a decade, Lakeman was left feeling her career had plateaued at the end of last season.
Instead of stepping back however, she doubled down.
"At the end of last year Jess felt a bit in limbo with her umpiring," former international umpire Marc Henning said, who joined forces with Netball Queensland, the Queensland Firebirds Futures Academy and Netball Australia to help Lakeman re-ignite her ambitions.
"Together we set about constructing a plan on where improvements could be gained, both on and off the court, to support her pursuit of umpiring excellence."
The plan worked.
Lakeman’s return to form has earned her a spot at the SN Reserves finals, where she’s determined to prove herself again.
"It has been extremely pleasing that the effort and dedication by Jess to improve has translated into an opportunity to umpire the final series of a Netball Australia event," Henning said.
"To be able to do this alongside a fellow Netball Queensland umpire, Claire Kleinschmidt, creates excitement for all umpires within the pathway.
"I know they are going to be amazing."
The finals, held at the Waverley Netball Centre in Glen Waverley, Victoria, will also feature the Queensland Firebirds Futures battle the QBE Swifts Academy for third place at 3.30pm on Saturday.
Fans can watch the action live via codesports.com.au.
