Netball Australia, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and Tonga Netball Association have joined forces to deliver a virtual training program in Tonga for 5 days in August.
The program will see players, coaches and officials from Tongan communities participate in practical and theoretical sessions covering anything from Umpiring to First Aid and CPR.
The aim of this is to help build the capacity of participants and organisations through leadership activities, training, and coaching-accreditation courses in support of the Australian Government’s Team Up initiative.
Netball Australia CEO Kelly Ryan was delighted to partner with the ADF to use the power of sport to bring people together.
She said: “Our game of netball is an inclusive one, and I believe this partnership will only strengthen our connection and commitment to developing the game in the Pacific, whilst empowering women and girls.
“There is a natural alignment between Netball Australia and the Australian Defence Force in the areas of leadership, diversity and gender equality.
“The program will directly address the need for more skilled coaches and support staff in the region.”
Director-General of the ADF Sports Cell, Brigadier Phil Winter, agreed with Ryan that this collaboration felt natural.
He said: “The ADF has run two previous ‘virtual’ sports programs during COVID involving Rugby League, conducted in Fiji and PNG, and now having Netball Australia partner with our ADF Rugby League Association, will add a blended model of sports participation for Tongan forces and communities through the two sports codes, especially promoting female participation,”
“Sport provides a ‘universal language’ and the virtual program for Tonga is designed to teach leadership, gender equality, respect, nutrition and healthy living.
The 5-day virtual training program will run from 16-20th August 2021.
