Queensland’s best talent has been on show at the Nissan State Titles this week demonstrating the extraordinary depth of netball talent being fostered in Queensland.
Three hundred netballers from across Queensland participated in a three-day competition vying for selection in the Queensland’s 17 and under and, 19 and under squads for 2022 with teams announced today. Squads selected will train across preseason and final selected teams will compete at the National Netball Championships in 2022.
For many aspiring netballers this competition offers players their first talent identification opportunity at a state level. Queensland’s high-performance pathway also provides a progression opportunity for athletes seeking selection in national leagues – for example, the Suncorp Super Netball League.
Catherine Clark, Netball Queensland CEO said she was excited to see the depth of talent across Queensland and highlighted Netball Queensland’s bold vision to strengthen participation pathways for young women, men and boys.
“The growth and profile of netball in Queensland has gained momentum over the past few years and we are excited about expanding the opportunities in the high-performance arena – for our players, coaches and umpires in our great sport,” Clark said.
“This year, in an effort to showcase the talent in both female and male pathways we offered the Queensland Sun’s men’s team the opportunity to play in the Nissan State Titles having welcomed the Suns in an invitational capacity in 2020.”
“Just as we have seen in New Zealand with the Cadbury Series, where the Silver Ferns play against the New Zealand Men’s Netball team, we are hopeful this will be the catalyst for a stand alone men’s competition in 2022 and inspires more boys to get involved in netball.”
Demelza Fellowes, High Performance Director said the inclusion of men in the Nissan State Titles is a great precursor to the inclusion of both men and boys in 2022 competitions across Queensland and, is the next natural step for the development of netball in Queensland.
“Were delighted to have the Queensland Suns participating in the Nissan State Titles. As a high-performance pathway, extending the capability of our athletes is paramount in readying ourselves for the diversity of competition expected from the other states.
“Men tend to play a different style of netball – for example, using the fringes of the court and encouraging more aerial play in the circle so, they’ve challenged our women’s teams over the past two days of competition. It has been wonderful to watch all of our players step up and get better with each game.”
“Our Queensland Firebirds and Sapphire teams regularly train with the Queensland Suns which provides an opportunity to continue to extend and adapt our skills as netballers.”
To complete an amazing three-days Nissan Arena also hosted a game between the Queensland Gems and Deaf Netball Queensland. Congratulations to all athletes, coaches and officials on a successful tournament.
The 17 and under and, 19 and under squads will be live here post announcement:
https://qld.netball.com.au/state-titles
