Netball Queensland can confirm Netball Australia today made the difficult decision to cancel the Marie Little Shield for 2021, due to the ongoing uncertainty of the Coronavirus pandemic.
The MLS is a brilliant calendar event for netballers with an intellectual disability to represent their state on the big stage, which the Queensland Gems do so proudly.
It is heart-breaking that the Queensland Gems and all other teams won’t get to do so this year, however Netball Queensland understands the tough call made by Netball Australia.
Mel Bennett, Netball Queensland General Manager – Community Sport, said she hoped there could be ways to still celebrate the Queensland Gems.
“We appreciate that the decision to cancel this year’s Marie Little Shield is disappointing, especially for our Queensland Gems team and support staff,” Bennett said.
“However, we support Netball Australia’s decision as the health and wellbeing of our participants is our priority.
“We look forward to working with our Queensland Gems to ensure they have the opportunity to showcase their passion and talent this year.”
Netball Australia CEO Kelly Ryan said she felt the disappointment of those involved.
“We are incredibly disappointed that the Marie Little Shield will not go ahead this year,” Ryan said.
“Unfortunately, the unpredictability and instability of the coronavirus pandemic isn’t going away and our priority is always the safety of our participants.
“This is devastating for the participants and staff who put so much into this event, but we will continue to work with our Member Organisations to ensure it goes ahead in 2022.
