Wood's accreditation is a landmark moment for the state, as she becomes the fourth Queensland umpire to attain this recognition in 2026, alongside Chantal Hawkins, Charlotte Brown and Miranda Callum.
Four A Badge recipients in a single year comfortably represents the highest total number achieved in Queensland in a 12-month period for at least the last 15 years, a remarkable reflection of the depth and quality currently being developed within Netball Queensland's umpire performance pathway.
An experienced and highly respected member of the Sapphire Ruby Squad, Wood joined the Netball Queensland program in 2021 after previously honing her craft within the South Australia and Northern Territory umpiring systems.
Her steady progression through the state's competition has been evident ever since, highlighted by reaching her 50-game milestone in the HPNL last season, a testament to her consistency that has continued to shine through in her performances this year.
Netball Queensland Head High-Performance Umpire Coach Marc Henning said Wood's accreditation was a fitting reward for her ongoing growth and professionalism.
"Kelly's achievement of the national A Badge is a fantastic milestone built on consistent progress throughout the HART Premier Netball League season,” Henning said.
“This recognition reflects the discipline, focus, and professionalism Kelly has brought to her umpiring performances each week.
“As an experienced member within our Sapphire Ruby Squad, it is incredibly pleasing to see Kelly take this next step along the Netball Queensland umpiring pathway.”
