With its strong mixed gender participation base, various positions on court, and modified programs available for players of different ages and abilities, netball has the power to be one of the most inclusive sports.
Wyndham Netball Association (WNA) recognises this and has made significant strides over the past 12 months to introduce more people from far and wide to the sport, earning the association the title of Inclusive Netball Community of the Year in the 2023 Netball Victoria Community Awards.
Another potential growth area identified by WNA was older members of the community, or those unable to play the traditionally high-impact sport.
Again, Morley had read about the growing interest in Walking Netball – a modified version of the traditional game that allows participation regardless of age, fitness level, ability, or previous netball experience – so WNA began its own adult program.
In 2023, the association held 34 Walking Netball sessions participated in by a total of 104 individuals.
The initiative proved most popular with women over the age of 35 who are “very enthusiastic to continue playing the sport, or learn the sport, in a low-impact, friendly, non-competitive environment,” Morley said.
Among players were those returning to the sport after significant injury, with one stating, “Walking Netball represents what sport should be about: camaraderie, community and connection.”
READ more at source: https://vic.netball.com.au/news/wyndham-netball-association-wins-inclusive-netball-community-year
Author: The Walking Football
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