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SUNS RISE OVER JUNIOR NETBALL



It’s an exciting time for the Queensland Suns Men’s & Mixed Netball Association as they launch their inaugural Rising Suns Program, which offers development opportunities for male netballers from ages 12 to 16 years.

The Rising Suns program is the first junior men’s netball program of its kind in Queensland - a considerable step forward in acknowledging the interest and growth of men’s netball.

The program will consist of current Queensland Suns players, coaches and umpires facilitating, leading and mentoring the young athletes across eight weeks of netball-specific skill development and game play. Not only will they have the opportunity to learn from the best in the state, but also see first-hand the pathway possibilities available to them if they want to further their careers with the Queensland Suns. The Queensland Rising Suns Program will run for 8 weeks from May 9th to July 13th.



Currently boys can play up until the age of 12, before it’s up to the individual netball association as to whether they cater or create space for them to continue playing. Participation, retention and development of male athletes is the primary focus for Queensland Suns. The Rising Suns Program provides an opportunity for the boys to play against boys and hone their skills at a higher level without prejudice or judgment.

There are significant differences in game style compared to the women’s game, which is why Super Netball clubs Queensland Firebirds and Sunshine Coast Lightning teams love the challenge of playing the Suns Men’s Open side.

Steven Curr, President of Queensland Suns, says the program is a crucial for the sport.

“This program is the much needed answer to a gap in our development opportunities for young male netballers and we are so proud that we are able to facilitate these opportunities for these young men, who deserve to foster and develop their love for the game and their skills alike.”

“We look forward to seeing these young men participating in a sport they love, because they are the future of men’s netball in Queensland and Australia.”

According to Netball Australia’s State of the Game review released late last year, male participation in netball is on the rise, with the national participation figure for last year sitting at approximately 80,000.

That’s a significant number on five years ago and shows that there is a strong male presence within the national netball community, with development opportunities for young male athletes required moving forward.

The Queensland Rising Suns Program will run for 8 weeks from May 9th to July 13th.

For More information, please do to www.qldsuns.com.au for more information of follow Queensland Suns on Facebook. Registrations will be extended, and contact admin@qldsuns.com.au for more information.













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