Netball Queensland (NQ) and community organisation Hit the Dot have established a memorandum of understanding to enable more participants with intellectual disabilities to enjoy and excel at netball.
Recently established by Coaching Director Merrin McCullough and Business Director Debbie Kennedy, Hit the Dot provides a learning environment where participants are supported to build netball skills, improve overall fitness, make positive social connections and learn life skills.
Hit The Dot also delivers the Hidden Gems Netball Academy, which focuses on building the skills of women eligible to represent Queensland at the national Marie Little Shield tournament.
The Queensland Gems are the representative state team for women 16 and over with an intellectual disability and Hidden Gems is an important pathway to the national platform.
Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Netball Queensland Autumn Pierce says it makes sense to align NQ with Hit the Dot formally.
“Netball Queensland is committed to building welcoming and inclusive environments that foster belonging, and Hit the Dot’s approach elevates the message that there is a place for everyone in netball,” Pierce said.
NQ Inclusion Officer Peter Speaight adds the MOU will bring clear benefit to the Queensland Gems program.
“I am very excited to be involved in this project and see the impact that this will have on the Queensland Gems,” Speaight said.
“It is very important that we provide opportunities for all people to not only participate but excel in netball.
“Hit the Dot provides another pathway and program for women with intellectual impairments to play netball for their state. We fully support Hit the Dot.”
Hit the Dot’s Debbie Kennedy said an alignment with NQ will ensure confidence in the organisations program. “People looking at the academy will have the confidence that the coaching and management systems in place are aligned with Netball Queensland core values,” Kennedy said.
“Netball Queensland provides us with a strong link to the athlete pathway which is the Queensland Gems.”
More information on Hit the Dot can be found at https://www.hitthedot.com.au/.
