Leisure Networks to help local athletes shoot goals

A LOCAL All Abilities Netball league has helped to pave the way for 24 athletes heading off to represent Barwon Region All Abilities at tomorrow’s (Saturday, October 7) State Netball Titles in Parkville, Melbourne.

Award-winning disability and support organisation Leisure Networks is proud to be helping to facilitate the opportunity for two teams to compete against Victoria’s best.

For the past 10 years, Leisure Networks’ All-Abilities Netball competition has given local athletes the opportunity to improve their skills and meet new people in a safe and inclusive setting.

The league has operated during the winter season for ten years and due to its popularity was also launched in summer last year.

Thanks to the opportunities given by Leisure Networks year-round, the Barwon Region All Abilities team was able to make it to the Grand Final in the State Netball Titles in 2022.

Leisure Networks program co-ordinator Luke Maher said the teams couldn’t wait to hit the courts with a goal of winning the overall title.

“All our participants have played exceptionally well this season and 24 players have been selected for the State Netball Titles, which is so fantastic!

“To play at the States is an incredible opportunity.

“It’s a real demonstration of inclusivity, showing that all abilities competition is a valid division of the sport.

“It’s a real credit to all the players and their dedication to their sport, playing across both the summer and winter seasons this year.”

To support the players and coaches, Leisure Networks has received a grant from Geelong Connected Communities and additional support from major sponsors AWA Alliance Bank and their program partners for health and wellbeing GMHBA Limited and Cobram Estate Olives Ltd.

“As we’ve seen with the success of the AFL Barwon Inclusion League, it takes a community of support to make these things happen.

“On behalf of the players, and their support networks, we are ever grateful to Geelong Connected Communities, for a generous grant as well as AFL Barwon, great partners in helping create opportunities for players with disability and of course the coaches.

“Massive thanks to the coaches who have volunteered to get the teams ready for the State Titles – Anna Maher and Candice Bull from Leopold FNC and Zarah Barnett and Elianna van Galen from Newcomb FNC.”