Barry Whitnall/Shuttersport
Netball season lifts off Each winter hundreds of people from primary school children to adults take to Saxton Field to play netball. Organisers say this year will be a big one for the code. Words: Amy Russ
N
etball season is fast approaching and Nelson Netball Centre board member and a lifetime lover of the sport, Lisa Friis, says there are some exciting initiatives underway for netball in Nelson. Lisa serves NNC as an appointed board member and has played netball for most of her life. Passionate about the sport from a young age, Lisa is excited to see more younger players becoming involved and more inclusion for male participation.
The Nelson Netball Centre has been undergoing a restructure in its day-to-day workings and Lisa explains this as being a perfect opportunity to revitalise the experience their members receive. “The real focus is looking after the netball community. There is so much that goes on in the background. When I was only playing the sport, I had no idea what was being organised behind the scenes. We want our life members, officials, volunteers, umpires, players, and everyone who is involved to feel a real sense of community within the centre.”
NNC is promoting the Netball Smart drive and Balance is Better campaigns, with centre activator Ani-Marie Waitai leading the charge and covering all centres in the Top of the South. Netball Smart is a Netball NZ and ACC-funded national programme developed by former Silver Ferns’ physiotherapist, Sharon Kearney. The framework is made up of six principles helping to improve performance in a sport by preventing injuries. Ani’s key role is to support the delivery of Netball Smart and Balance is Better principles and practices within the Nelson centre and its surrounding areas. Holding a deep passion for the sport, Ani is keen to share her knowledge and years of training with players and says the initiatives are about helping players across all codes of sport bring out the best versions of themselves from a ‘grassroots’ level. Leigh Gibbs, former Silver Fern gold medalist and head coach, holds many strings to her bow. Currently the general manager for NCC, Leigh is leaving the Centre soon to take an opportunity with New Zealand
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