Australian netball star Paige Hadley's return to competition just 10 weeks after giving birth was meant to be an inspiring achievement. However, the 33-year-old has revealed she has been subjected to disgusting comments during her comeback.
Hadley became a mother to baby boy Tully in late February and returned to action for the NSW Swifts on the weekend. Despite her incredible physical and mental recovery, she has opened up about the impact of receiving hate online.
'My passion for the game is stronger than ever, so why should I have to choose between becoming a mum and playing netball?' she told the ABC. 'Unfortunately, throughout this whole process, not everyone was in my corner; some thought it was a joke or far-fetched.'
Hadley has been hit with negative reactions on social media. 'I had all of those comments: 'Why are you even trying, just go be a mum' and 'Once he's here you won't even want to be a netballer,'' she continued.
The two-time premiership winner already boasts an impressive resume in her chosen sport. In addition to her two titles, she has played in five grand finals and has also won two Netball World Cups while representing Australia.
Despite the small minority taking aim at her, she remains defiant and has vowed to continue. 'Everyone seems to have a different opinion on my return, but the thing about pregnancy and motherhood is it is different for everyone,' Hadley said.
'I love my little baby boy tenfold; I would do anything for him, so to hear comments like, 'Paige should be home with her son,' that's really hard. He is my priority, but I also want women to know you don't have to choose between becoming a mum and your career.'
The senior Swifts player hopes to be an inspiration for many people, especially her son. 'I hope when he's older, he realises that his mum is brave and courageous and you don't have to choose one single thing to define you,' Hadley added. 'No-one says that to my partner, so why should they say that to me? I want to show my son that anything is possible.'
