NewsBite

Super Netball to tackle lack of Indigenous players

Super Netball chief executive Chris Symington concedes the league must do more to increase the number of Indigenous players at the elite level.

Suncorp Super Netball CEO Chris Symington at Cairns Airport. PICTURE: STEWART McLEAN
Suncorp Super Netball CEO Chris Symington at Cairns Airport. PICTURE: STEWART McLEAN

Super Netball chief executive Chris Symington concedes the league must do more to increase the number of Indigenous players at the elite level.

“In terms of the pathway and getting athletes from the grassroots through to Suncorp Super Netball, that’s something we have to continue to work on,” he said, speaking in Cairns ahead of three Indigenous Round matches to be played in the region.

“We know there’s a great participation rate at the grassroots level for females but also for Indigenous females, so it’s on us to work together with our stakeholders and state associations to make sure we build those pathways and increase the opportunities so it’s not just one athlete, but more in the future.

“We (Netball Australia) are currently doing a State of the Game review and one of the elements we’re looking at is inclusion and diversity and also our numbers, particularly within the Indigenous space.

SUPER NETBALL IN CAIRNS

Six Super Netball players to watch in Cairns

Firebirds playing for faithful fans of the Far North

NSW Swifts shooting to end ‘frustrating’ trend

Fever out to secure finals berth in Cairns crunch match

Firebird right at home for Vixens clash

Giants’ big chance to hook stars of the future

“At the end of the season we’ll regroup and have a look at the findings of that review and start setting targets.”

The Firebirds’ Jemma Mi Mi has been the only Indigenous player in Super Netball for two years, while just two Indigenous players — and none in the last 20 years — have represented the Australian Diamonds.

Originally published as Super Netball to tackle lack of Indigenous players

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/sport/super-netball-to-tackle-lack-of-indigenous-players/news-story/d36c6a987c2c18388c4043df3807f25e