Netball Australia is set to launch a groundbreaking pilot First Nations Tournament this September, aimed at providing accelerated and equitable opportunities for First Nations participants in netball. The inaugural tournament will feature under-23 teams from every state and territory, competing over three days of action-packed games. The event is scheduled to take place from September 13 to September 15 at the State Netball Centre in Melbourne.

The tournament will see teams from Victoria, ACT, Tasmania, New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory vie for top honours, marking a significant milestone in Netball Australia’s commitment to fostering inclusivity. “The 2024 pilot First Nations Tournament marks the first step toward a national First Nations netball competition,” stated Netball Australia CEO Stacey West. “It will allow us to explore and develop what an ongoing First Nations tournament could become as we advance on our collective journey.”

Developed with support from Netball Australia’s eight Member Organisations, the First Nations Tournament aims to enhance cultural literacy within netball and provide a platform for First Nations players to excel and be celebrated. The event will also feature First Nations coaches, umpires, and officials, showcasing the extensive talent within the netball community.

In addition to the tournament, Netball Australia has partnered with Suncorp, the Confident Girls Foundation, and Visit Victoria to deliver the event. The pilot follows the introduction of several national First Nations programs this year, including a First Nations Coaching Course and the debut of the Black Swans, Netball Australia’s First Nations Invitational Netball Team, at the 2024 Pacific Netball Series.

Netball Australia’s First Nations Engagement Lead, Ali Tucker-Munro, emphasised the significance of the tournament: “I cannot wait to see our girls in action and connect with communities across Australia who share a passion for our game. This tournament demonstrates Netball Australia’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive space for First Nations Australians and nurturing the talent within our communities.”

The 2024 First Nations Tournament will be open to the public free of charge, furthering Netball Australia’s mission to make the sport accessible and inclusive for all.

Courtesy: First Nations Tournament pilot announced