Local duo take part in Netball Victoria First Nations Tournament

A PAIR of up-and-coming local netball stars have participated in a first of its kind state competition, with their eyes firmly set on making a future in the sport.

Tully Bethune and Isabel Gee from AFL Barwon both took part in the Netball Victoria First Nations Tournament last month.

The event aimed to provide accelerated and equitable opportunities for First Nations participants in netball and showcased the talent of First Nations athletes, coaches and umpires.

Bethune made her 19 and Under Victorian Netball League (VNL) debut at 14 years old and was named co-captain of Northern Territory’s state team.

The 18-year-old was selected for Netball Australia’s inaugural First Nations team, the Blacks Swans, but was unfortunately sidelined due to injury.

She impresses as a tall holding goaler with great accuracy.

Gee is described as a versatile defender with great court awareness.

Away from the netball court, Gee surfs in her spare time away and played basketball in her junior years.

Bethune was involved in the tournament from the bench after having to pull out from her playing duties, while Gee followed the competition as a training partner.

Bethune said it was fantastic to train and work alongside the best players in the state.

“I think for the girls and for the broader Indigenous community, this was a great opportunity to be seen and show that we can do it.

“This tournament [showed] it doesn’t matter who you are, if you want to do it you can.”

Netball Victoria’s chief executive officer Andrea Pearman said the organisation recognised the ongoing contributions of Frist Nations athletes in the sport.

“The inaugural First Nations tournament [was] a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the talent we know is abundant in First Nations communities right across the state and country.

“Initiatives like this tournament are great step, not just for athletes to showcase their talent, but to develop the visibility and accessibility of the talent pathway for First Nations netballers across the country and create conversations and action.”