Albury-Wodonga was abuzz with excitement on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 July as the Lauren Jackson Sports Centre and Wodonga Sports & Leisure Centre both played host to a spectacular day of netball during NAIDOC Week. The event, supported by Netball Victoria, aimed to inspire young players aged 7-17 years and promote the rich Aboriginal culture within the sport.
The clinics began with an Acknowledgement of Country, setting the tone for the importance of recognizing and honouring the traditional owners of the land. The participants were introduced to the significance of NAIDOC Week, fostering a sense of appreciation and understanding.
Expertly led by community coach Jordan, a proud Barkindji woman, who brought her passion and expertise to the court. Netball drills and activities were modified to incorporate traditional First Nations games like Tarnambai and Pukamitjal, which gave the participants valuable knowledge about Aboriginal heritage and traditions.
Adding to the inspiration and guidance was Sammi Murray, a proud Dhudhuroa and Yorta Yorta woman and current Talent Academy Athlete. Sammi actively participated in the drills and shared her experiences as a young Aboriginal athlete within the Netball Victoria Pathway.
The clinics not only aimed to develop netball skills but also provided valuable information for those interested in joining local teams. Participants received guidance on how to put their newfound skills to good use and explore opportunities within their netball communities.
The positive impact of these clinics was evident in the enthusiasm and gratitude expressed by both the participants and their parents. Adrian, father of Lexi and Eli, highlighted the significance of these clinics in providing his children with opportunities that he didn't have growing up in Central Australia.
“It’s important for our community to participate in sport to keep healthy,” he said.
“I want my kids to stay in sport and keep that going for the next generation.”
A resounding success, the NAIDOC Week netball clinics are testament to the power of sports in fostering cultural appreciation, personal growth, and community engagement.
Combining netball skill development with education about Aboriginal culture, these initiatives empower young players and promote unity through sport.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone involved for their invaluable contributions to this fantastic day.
Find out more about how you can get involved in netball!
