Premier League clubs recognise One Netball initiative

NADIA Mapunda’s start in netball had a different twist to most. Now she is backing the One Netball initiative to make the sport accessible for all.

NADIA Mapunda’s start in netball had a different twist to most.

The Phoenix goal defence first stepped on the court with friends at St Francis Xavier Primary, Wynn Vale.

But Mapunda recalls the challenge of introducing her Tanzanian father, Guido, to a game unfamiliar to him.

“Coming from Africa my dad was very keen on his soccer but didn’t know too much about netball at first,” Mapunda, 26, says.

“I’ve been back to Tanzania with him a few times and seen the grass courts they play netball on over there.

“It’s very different to what we are used to.”

Mapunda will join players across the Premier League recognising the One Netball initiative tomorrow night.

The program aims to make netball accessible to everyone regardless of age, ability, gender, location or cultural background.

“If you are somebody coming from overseas, netball is an excellent way to get to know people and make some friendships that will last for a really long time,” says Mapunda, of Mile End.

“The one thing I’ve taken from netball is all the great friends you make.”

Phoenix reserves coach Vanessa Dempsey is another promoting diversity in netball.

Dempsey runs Netball SA’s Nunga Netball which offers coaching and talent identification to young indigenous players across the state.

“Netball is definitely a very sociable thing,” Mapunda, a former Tango and SASI player, says.

“Growing up, lots of my friends played and I would go out to watch the Adelaide Thunderbirds play with my mum and my neighbours.

“It teaches you fair play and how to work hard for teammates.”

All Premier League players will wear red ribbons during matches at Netball SA Stadium to support One Netball.

Program ambassador and Thunderbirds vice-captain Leigh Waddington will also speak about the initiative during half-time of matches.