Amy Russell

Starting as a player, she played all through the junior years, playing for Sefton Stars, and being coached by some highly respected coaches, to name a few, John Allerston and Tony Walsh. Amy built her foundation through competition, discipline, and a relentless commitment to improvement. In her last playing season, competing at WNBL Division 2 level with Liverpool Basketball Club, she developed the physical and mental resilience required to perform, while gaining a deep understanding of the game from within.

But playing was only the beginning.

Her transition into coaching marked a shift from individual performance to collective growth. Taking on leadership roles such as U16 Girls Head Coach at Liverpool Basketball Club, in her second season coaching the girls to a 2nd place league finish with a record of 13-3. As an Aspire North Region U13 Assistant Coach, Amy began shaping the next generation of players. Her coaching journey reflects not just knowledge of the game, but the ability to connect, develop, and inspire.

This impact was further recognised through opportunities like being selected as a coach for UK50, an environment that brings together high level coaching and player development on an international stage.

Yet what truly sets Amy apart is her progression into officiating and her rise within it.

Amy was diagnosed quite late into her 20’s with having ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). Amy recognises the role her ADHD plays in her performance. In high pressure environments like officiating, it allows her to stay highly alert, process multiple moving elements at once, and make quick, decisive calls. What can often be seen as a challenge, she has learned to harness as a strength, giving her an edge in reading the game, anticipating play and maintaining focus when it matters most.

Now in her second season as a referee, Amy has already reached the level of officiating in the Women’s Super League, placing her among the officials trusted to manage the game at one of its highest standards. In this role, she brings authority, composure, and consistency under pressure, making decisive calls in fast paced, high stakes environments.

Where once she played within the game, she now helps control it at the highest level.

This unique combination of experiences, player, coach, and official, gives Amy a rare 360-degree perspective. She understands the emotions of players, the intentions of coaches, and the responsibility of officials.

Amy Russell isn’t just part of the game anymore
she’s influencing it, leading it, and officiating it at the top level.