With nearly 15 years’ experience in high-performance sport, Webster takes the helm as Director for High Performance and will be directly responsible for overseeing and delivering on the performance outcome of the VIS in relation to Australia’s WinWell 2032+ strategy and beyond.
Webster forged her career with Netball SA and the Adelaide Thunderbirds. She made the move to the sporting capital Melbourne and Netball Victoria, where she was the General Manager for the Vixens, Performance and Pathways from 2016-2022.
At the Vixens, Webster started mastering the art of high-performance management, impacting their organisation with her dedication, work ethic and calm leadership style.
She was the backbone behind the Vixens Premiership in 2020, where Webster worked tirelessly behind the scenes to get the team through one of the most unique seasons in netball history due to the COVID-pandemic.
In 2022, Webster was ready for a new challenge and successfully landed the role as VIS General Manager High Performance overseeing the sports of archery (program ended on 31 March), diving, hockey and wheelchair basketball.
A force in high-performance sport, Webster has developed a strong network with our sport partners, participated in the rollout of the HP2032+ strategy and more recently led the standup of the VIS Para Sport Unit with great success.
“I’m very much looking forward to seeing Bek [Rebekah] take on the Director role with a fresh approach whilst showcasing her calm and caring approach that we all value,” VIS CEO Nicole Livingstone OAM said.
Webster will continue the legacy of strong female leadership at the VIS, leading the sport industry in female representation on the executive level.
Over 60% of the VIS Board and Directors are female and for the past nine years the VIS was led by a female Chair in Ms. Nataly Matijevic.
“The VIS is a leader in gender balance in high-performance sport. We are committed to creating and reaffirming a gender inclusive culture that empowers our people and encourages diversity within our organisation.” Livingstone OAM confirmed.
“We are proud of supporting our own people to progress in high-performance sport with opportunities to grow and lead.”
Webster is excited to step into the Director position that will see her play an influential and impactful role in shaping and driving sport programs and athlete investment across the VIS.
“It’s an incredible privilege to lead the VIS High Performance team at such an exciting time for sport in Victoria. I’m deeply committed to ensuring our athletes, coaches, and staff feel supported to thrive in their environments — not just in pursuit of medals, but as people,” Webster said.
The timing seems just right for Webster to lead the VIS High Performance team with a home games on the horizon.
“Victoria is well-positioned to play a leading role in delivering world-class performances and driving Australia’s success at Brisbane 2032. I look forward to working collaboratively across the sporting system to ensure Victorian athletes continue to lead the way on the world stage,” Webster added.
By Camilla Blands
Victorian Institute of Sport
