New low vision netball proves a hit

THE Barwon All Abilities Netball competition has just got more inclusive thanks to the introduction of a low vision ball, which is being used in this year’s final series that began on Wednesday this week.

The new ball, which features a loud bell and contrasting stripes, will make the netball easier to hear and see for the five teams who are fighting for the 2023 inaugural summer season All Abilities Netball crown.

Surf Coast Suns low vision player Mon Crowden was behind the idea to make the specialty ball, and along with her Leisure Networks support worker, got to work researching options for players with low vision.

“I knew about the tennis balls and cricket balls, but I didn’t know if they did netballs,” Crowden said.

With input from AFL Barwon head of netball Sophie Murley, a concept was developed and successfully implemented into the competition on Wednesday.

“All the participants have enjoyed having the new ball,” Murley said.

“When they pick it up and hear the bell, it’s quite appealing and it has also given the other players a bit of insight into the challenges faced by their teammate with lower vision.

“We have begun using it across both courts, not just the court where we have a participant with low vision.

“Hopefully we can continue to grow this all-abilities netball competition, make it bigger and better and provide more opportunities and pathways for all abilities.”

Supported by Leisure Networks and AFL Barwon, All Abilities Netball has been running as a winter competition for close to 10 years, however due to the huge appetite from the participants, Leisure Networks and AFL Barwon facilitated this year’s inaugural summer season to keep it up year-round.

“Our role at Leisure Networks, is to facilitate these opportunities getting off the ground,” Leisure Networks program co-ordinator Luke Maher said.

“We work with local clubs to create inclusive opportunities and connect people into these supported activities.

“We have had great success in building participation for footy and I think we can do a similar thing with netball.”

The summer finals series will wrap up at Geelong West Giants Football and Netball Club on Wednesday, March 15.

Winter competition will begin in May.

For more information and to get involved, email Luke Maher, program co-ordinator at Leisure Networks at [email protected]