SA U12 boys netball team nominated for 2023 SA School Sports Awards

A junior netball SA side has impressed at nationals this year and is now among the big nominees for a 2023 SA School Sports Award. See how to enter.

An inaugural junior state netball side has been nominated for a major award after an impressive 2023 season.

South Australia’s first ever U12 boys netball team impressed at the School Sport Australia nationals this year and has been nominated for a 2023 The Advertiser, Sunday Mail and Department for Education School Sports Award.

Made up of young players from a number of suburban schools, the side travelled to Perth to compete in nationals this season and finished third off the back of an impressive undefeated opening day.

Coach Josh Serle, who is also involved with the SA Southern Dragons men's team, said the award nomination was fitting reward for the team’s effort.

“It’s great to see the boys get some recognition and to be able to win would be huge for them,” Serle said.

“They have already come away from the tournament feeling accomplished but this makes the experience even greater.”

The 2023 SA U12 boys netball team has been nominated for a School Sports Award. Picture: Supplied

Serle said trials were originally open to everyone, including boys who did not have much experience playing netball.

Over 60 players showed to each session and quickly developed their skills and understanding of the game.

“Initially we were pretty unsure about how many boys we’d get trialling but we had big numbers and had to cut it down to 12,” Serle said.

“Kids came from all over the suburbs.

“It took them a while to settle in with each other but once the team came together they really meshed well and it was very rewarding to see them developing on and off the court.”

Team SA celebrates after its third-place finish. Picture: Supplied

The team impressed on day one of the tournament, defeating New South Wales 27-18 and ACT 33-12 in two dominant displays.

Further wins against Western Australia, New South Wales and the ACT would follow as the side finished third overall.

“There was just so much connectedness within the team and they all included each other in bonding and on the court,” Serle said.

“We were delighted with the results and the performance of the boys I think will be huge for the state going forward as we look to grow the male side of the sport.

“A lot of them really want to see boys netball take off.” m

The School Sports Awards are the joint initiative of The Advertiser, Sunday Mail and Department for Education.

There are three major awards in 2023 – individual competitors, individual student officials, and teams, with female and male, and primary and secondary categories all included.

Enrolled primary or secondary students between the ages of 10-18 are eligible.

Nominate here by Sunday, November 5.