FridayOL

Netball Australia has unveiled an ambitious plan to significantly expand its community reach, aiming to double its participation numbers over the next decade. This 'green-and-gold decade,' as they're calling it, is a strategic move to solidify netball's position as a leading force in Australian sport, even amidst the soaring popularity of the Matildas.

For years, netball has enjoyed a strong and loyal following, particularly among women and girls. However, the recent explosion of interest in women's football, spearheaded by the Matildas' incredible performance at the World Cup, has undoubtedly raised the stakes. Netball Australia acknowledges this challenge and is determined to not only maintain its existing base but to aggressively grow it.

So, what's the plan? The strategy focuses on several key areas:

• Grassroots Development: A significant investment will be directed towards strengthening netball programs at the local level. This includes supporting clubs, coaches, and volunteers, and making the sport more accessible to children and adults of all ages and abilities. Initiatives like 'Netta' – netball for beginners – will be heavily promoted and expanded.
• Community Engagement: Netball Australia is committed to building stronger relationships with local communities. This involves partnering with schools, community groups, and local councils to create opportunities for people to participate in netball, whether as players, coaches, officials, or spectators.
• Innovation and Technology: Embracing technology is crucial. Expect to see more online resources, virtual coaching tools, and engaging digital content to attract and retain participants. This includes leveraging social media to showcase the excitement and inclusivity of the sport.
• Highlighting Role Models: Just as the Matildas have inspired a generation, Netball Australia will actively promote its own stars – the Diamonds and emerging talent – to inspire the next wave of netballers. This will involve increased media coverage, fan engagement opportunities, and showcasing the pathways to elite level netball.
• Diversity & Inclusion: Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone is paramount. Netball Australia is committed to addressing barriers to participation and ensuring that netball is a sport for all Australians, regardless of their background, ability, or gender identity.

The challenge is clear: can netball successfully compete with the Matildas for attention and participation? Netball Australia believes it can. They argue that netball offers a unique blend of athleticism, teamwork, and community spirit, and that its accessibility and inclusivity make it an ideal sport for Australians of all ages and backgrounds. The coming decade will be a crucial test of their strategy – one that will determine whether netball can maintain its position as a cornerstone of Australian sport.

The 'green-and-gold decade' is more than just a marketing slogan; it's a declaration of intent. Netball Australia is ready to fight for its place in the sporting landscape and to inspire a new generation of netballers across the nation. The focus is on building a sustainable, community-driven future for the sport, ensuring that netball remains a beloved pastime for years to come.