Helping develop First Nations youth on and off the court

The 23 excited players, some travelling beyond Dubbo for the first time, joined more than 1,100 netballers from clubs across NSW to play in the knockout competition.

The club sent two teams, an open women’s B grade side and 12-15 years mixed junior team, with the latter producing stellar performances that earned a grand final spot. Two players performed so well they even attracted the attention of ‘scouts’ from Netball NSW.

Head coach Shelly Bayliss says the experience inspired the netballers, as individuals and as a group, and undoubtedly moved the group to deliver its best-ever performances.

“The chance to travel, bunk as a team, wear their new uniforms, and play on a bigger stage against better players has been invaluable to building their confidence and lifting their game.” Shelly says.

“They all stepped up, motivating each other, supporting each other, consoling each other, and made me and their Indigenous community back home in Narromine so proud.”

The trip was also personally life-changing for some in the group, with two boys from the mixed team visiting a beach for the first time.

“This trip brought so many smiles and so much happiness to the group. Beyond building their netball skills, knowledge and connection as a team, the kids also gained important life skills and priceless memories,” Shelly says.

“This special weekend will boost their self-esteem and motivate them to keep putting their best foot forward on and off the court.

“Without Inland Rail’s funding, which helped pay for uniforms and travel, we would not have been able to attend the tournament, and the kids would not have had this amazing, unforgettable experience.”

TOP IMAGE: the Deadly Dragonfliez junior mixed team in their bright new uniforms
BOTTOM IMAGE: practicing on the court in Charlestown near Newcastle