Netball Annual Report 2009

One Team One Game One Goal

2009 Annual Report Australia 1 Message from the Australian Sports Commission

The power of a successful sports system like Australia’s lies within the many cooperative partnerships and relationships between its system partners.

Matt Miller As our sports system has diversified The Australian Sports Commission Chief Executive Officer and increased in complexity over the has already taken steps to review Australian Sports Commission years, so too has the nature of these and evaluate our strategic position relationships. Now, as ever, a critical and intent in active consultation with ingredient for our system’s continued national sporting organisations and success and sustainability is to ensure other stakeholders. These system that we all remain on the same page that improvements will provide a foundation our links between each other, our leading for any changes emerging from the programs, our roles and relationships are Government process. clearly defined and understood by all. Already we have identified a number Sport operates in a dynamic, demanding of priorities. These include: the need to and rapidly changing environment. The better align our high performance sport sources of change include advancing efforts with our partners; to work more technologies, new structures and collaboratively with state departments systems, products and services, people of sport and recreation in strategic concerns and rising international approaches to growing participation in competition and benchmarks. sport; to re-communicate the value of sport to the Australian community; and The Australian Government has flagged to retain and develop our best coaches. the need to address this change by reforming our sports system and has Our efforts to act on these priorities are outlined its approach in the paper inherently intertwined with our partners. Australian Sport: Emerging Challenges, These partnerships represent a powerful New Directions. tool in our ability to adapt to a changing environment, to share responsibilities, The Government is also preparing to effectively communicate and continue respond to recommendations by an to expand and strengthen sport. independent expert panel, headed by lawyer David Crawford, to ensure both Our work together will ensure that the high performance and community level Australian sports system is progressive, sport is prepared for those challenges. robust and sustainable for decades to come.

2 2009 Annual Report Contents

President’s Report 14

Chief Executive’s Report 16

Organisational Structure 18

High Performance 20

Sport Development 32

Commerical Operations 36

Event Operations 40

Corporate Services 47

Awards 48

Sponsors and Partners 50

Photographers are David Callow, Getty Images, Stefan Postles Highlights

World Champions All eyes on netball Sell-out crowds Under the direction of coach Simone Television audiences increased For the first time ever, three of the McKinnis OAM, the Australian 21/U team dramatically in 2009, due largely to the four Holden Netball Test Series were crowned the World Youth Netball move to commercial free-to-air television matches sold out weeks in advance. Champions after defeating arch rivals via the partnership with Network Ten and ANZ Championship crowds were up 64-46 in the Cook Islands its high definition sports channel ONE. 12% on 2008 attendances after the ANZ Championship audiences were up home and away rounds. World number one a massive 52%, while the Holden Netball Australian Netball Diamonds retain Test Series recorded its highest ever Vixens their position as number one ranked ratings, with the match in It was an all-Australian affair when netballing nation in the world. peaking at 289,031 viewers. the Vixens lived up to their ‘Dream Team’ hype and beat The Crawford Report the Thunderbirds in front Netball welcomed the release of the of a sell-out crowd at Hisense Arena Independent Sport Panel on the Future to take out the ANZ Championship title. of , particularly the findings around making sport and physical education a priority in the education system.

4 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Sharelle McMahon Australian Diamonds’ captain and revered shooter Sharelle McMahon joined an elite group when she played her 100th Test cap during the Holden Netball Test Series in Brisbane. Only two others, and , have a greater number of caps.

Corletto and Hallinan Friends since playing together as junior netballers, the Diamonds and Vixens teammates had a stellar year. Corletto was honoured with netball’s most prestigious individual award, the Liz Ellis Diamond while Hallinan not only made her Diamonds’ debut but was awarded the Holden International Player of the Year.

Gweneth Benzie Diminutive Gwen Benzie stole the show at the Netball Australia Annual Awards dinner when she was inducted into the Australian Netball Hall of Fame as a General Member along with other greats of the game.

Diamond Girl With her long blond hair and green ribbons, the new Diamonds mascot made her debut at the Brisbane Test. Much more than just a fun mascot, Diamond Girl is part of a broader strategic move to further position the Australian Netball Diamonds brand in the Australian market.

MyNetball San Remo NetSetGO! Netball Australia launched its new online Netball Australia’s development program membership portal with a mass mail-out for 5 – 10 years olds recorded an 86% to all registered members offering a range growth in its second year, with 24,129 of benefits and opportunities, including participants enjoying netball at 637 the chance to win a new Holden Cruze. centres throughout the country. Lucky 12 year old Queenslander Kaila Sutherland won the car. Umpires Australian umpires had an outstanding year Sponsors with five selected to officiate at the World In a tough commercial environment Youth Netball Championship finals. Josh overshadowed by concerns about Bowring and Mark Henning were awarded the global financial crisis, Netball their AA badges, a great achievement. Australia renegotiated the extension of three major partnerships – Holden, San Remo and Loraine Lea Linen – and forged a new partnership with the Walt Disney company.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 5 Strategic Direction

Context Netball Australia is a member of a broader sport industry that extends beyond Australian shores. The fundamental goal of Netball Australia is to provide an opportunity for all Australians to participate in the game in a way that brings them good health, recognition, achievement, enjoyment and a sense of belonging. As Australia’s leading female sport Netball Australia is committed to the provision of innovative and sustainable netball programs to faciliate social change and empowerment for women and girls. Netball Australia is responsible for National teams competing on the international stage, major events that bring the best in the world to the Australian public, programs and services that create positive environments for inclusive participation, pathways for athletes, umpires, coaches, administrators and technical officials, technology that connects the netball community, guarding heritage and a culture that celebrates women. Vision Netball – one team, one game, one goal. Mission Commercially driven, stakeholder focused and recognised as a world class sporting organisation.

6 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Strategic Direction

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 7 Strategic Direction

Values Strategic Priorities • The Australian Netball Diamonds brand launched. Passion Intelligent Evolution • Netball inducts its first members into • We care about our organisation, • Involve key business leaders, the Australian Netball Hall of Fame. our people and our purpose. community and government. • The ANZ Championship achieved • We are motivated, high achievers • Utilise IP to broaden the reach record crowds and broadcast ratings. and celebrate great outcomes. of the Netball brand • The Liz Ellis Diamond was presented Teamwork Netball is an Australian Success Story to Australia’s most outstanding • We work together for a common goal • Rebrand netball so it is contemporary, netballer in 2009, . and create a harmonious environment relevant and compelling. Vibrant Community Sport by: • Use interactive, contemporary digital • San Remo NetSetGO! launched –– Contributing as individuals media to engage and build passion nationally – 86% growth 08-09. for our brand. –– Being adaptable and flexible • Health partnerships launched with –– Supporting others. • Create events and products that beyondblue and National Breast generate economic benefits. Cancer Foundation. Integrity • We act in an ethically Vibrant Community Sport Intelligent Evolution responsible manner. • Grow San Remo NetSetGO! • Diamond Girl launched during the • We are honest and treat 2009 Holden Netball Test Series. Achievements 08/09 people with respect. • Six of the eight Member Organisations World Number One support the one brand strategy. Excellence • Australia’s 21/U team wins 2009 World • We perform at the highest level • The Netball Australia Board reviewed Youth Netball Championship in the and benchmark against the best. strategic priorities for 2009-2010. Cook Islands. • We aim for continuous improvement • Netball established a national high • The Australian Netball Diamonds retain and innovation in everything we do. level risk register. the world number one ranking. • Federal Government funding over three Accountability • On-line umpire exams launched. years supported the establishment of • We are responsible and take the ANZ Championship teams, roll out ownership for outcomes. Netball is an Australian Success Story San Remo NetSetGO! and the • Network Ten becomes the official • We find solutions and implementation of a national television broadcaster of the ANZ resolve problems. Indigenous strategy. Championship and the Australian • The national database is complete • We are clear about our roles Netball Diamonds. and responsibilities and decision and MyNetball launched. making authority.

As Australia’s leading female sport Netball Australia is committed to the provision of innovative and sustainable netball programs to faciliate social change and empowerment for women and girls.

8 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 9 Strategic Summary

Intelligent Evolution Netball is an Australian Success Story Working in a Federated Structure • Strengthen our Governance Brand • Standardise policy and process • One Brand for Netball • Facilitate stakeholder consultation • Build a strong and passionate brand identity Commercial Growth • Leverage commercial opportunities History and Culture from major partnerships • Treasure Netball’s icons through the Hall of Fame • Ensur e effective long term corporate partnerships • Preserve and protect Netball’s past • Build a well managed and • A permanent display at the National profitable licencing program Sport Museum

• Implement a National Iconic Events Sponsorship strategy • Launch commercially driven • Commercialise NMAS mass participation event • Engage with the netball and broader • International Tests are a sport community through MyNetball entertainment experience

Information Management ANZ Championship and Technology • Leverage opportunities from • Implement technology to further the ANZ Championship our business – secure, accurate and in accordance with legislation Interactive Digital Media • Develop the capacity to use • An interactive web site technology as an education tool • Netball TV launched • Develop a whole of sport extranet Media, PR and Communications • Building our Networks • Strong media relationships in sport • Build relationships with influential and general news government, corporate and • Strategic expansion of media coverage community leaders • E-communications to fans, sponsors International Development and players • Influence the international agenda • Maximise partnership with free • Invest in regional development to air commercial broadcaster

Implement sustainable Research financial practices • Implement consumer research • Financial efficiencies and growth • Media and sponsor evaluation • Optimize and maximize return on assets

10 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia World Number One Vibrant Community Sport

Australian Teams Sustaining Participation • Prepare athletes for milestone events • Develop and implement a and annual International series – 2010 National Indigenous Framework and 2011 • Progress within Project World Netball Championships Connect (Disability) Athlete Pathway • Grow San Remo NetSetGO! nationally • Deliver a daily training • Develop a National Schools Strategy environment that complements • Respond to environmental, the competition framework social and economic change • Integrate the AIS and SIS/SAS • Develop a national infrastructure program as a critical component plan Social Responsibility of the athlete pathway • Develop a position on contemporary • Implement the National social issues Talent Identification plan • The improvement of the social, political, economical and health Coach Pathway status of women and girls is an • Implement the National Coach important goal for all our programs Accreditation Framework • Develop vibrant relationships • Provide professional with health partners development opportunities for High Performance Coaches • Implement sustainable environmental practices Umpire Pathway • Implement the National Umpire Capacity of People Accreditation Framework • Develop a National Volunteer Policy and Management Plan • Develop and implement the National Talent Identification • Develop and implement program for Umpires. a National Risk Management plan • Develop a National HR framework Technical Officials • Development of a Player • Develop and Implement a National Wellbeing Plan Bench Officials Accreditation scheme

Competition Framework • Implement a complete competition pathway

Sports Science Sports Medicine • Coordinate a national SSSM program • Integrate performance analysis across national programs • A national research strategy

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 11 Player Profile Susan Fuhrmann Biography Position: GK DOB: 30/7/1986 Height: 196cm What has been the highlight of your netball career so far? Test caps: 11 The Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, 2006, has been ANZ Championship team: the biggest event I have ever competed in with netball. The atmosphere at the games and the event overall was an amazing National Selections: TID: 17/U 2003, experience. However, I really loved every minute of the most 21/U Team: 2004-06 recent Holden Netball Test Series against New Zealand. There Australian Squad: 2006-2010 is such a rivalry between the Silver Ferns and the Diamonds; it Australian Team: 2006, 2009 brings out the best in everyone’s game. Commonwealth Games: 2006 How do you think the sport has changed since you began Standing at a towering 196cm, this defender from Western your involvement? Australia is a tall timber whose height and reach over the shot The major change in netball since I began playing would have can cause shooters a headache. With the ability to dictate the to be the exposure of the sport. Having the game broadcast space in the circle and the capacity to take a strong rebound, on the Ten Network has been so amazing. I remember watching Susan is a player who continues to develop in leaps and netball on TV growing up. I was inspired by the skill and bounds. 2009 was a breakthrough year for Fuhrmann with the athleticism of all the players. It’s great that there is so much goal keeper’s long limbs and elevation proving a nightmare for more great quality netball available for all Australians to enjoy. goal shooters. Stellar performances in the Holden Netball Test In terms of the competition itself, the greatest change has been Series against saw her win two Player of the the move to the Trans-Tasman Netball League. The change Match awards in 2009. has given us the opportunity to play with and against the best netballers in the world week in and week out.

What will be your most signifi cant challenge going forward in the sport? The most signifi cant challenge for me is to continue developing and growing as a player. To keep one step ahead of your opponent you must continually study your opposition’s game and work on your weaknesses.

How did it feel this year to win two Player of the Match awards in the Holden Netball Test Series? The entire experience of playing in the Holden Netball Test Series was a dream come true. I was so honored to play alongside such amazing talent and to represent my country. To win player of the match was more that I could have asked for.

12 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Structure

NT 2,078

QLD 38,550

WA 33,796

NSW 105,360 SA 27,113

ACT 4,561

VIC 102,368

TAS 6,450

Key figures Eight affiliated States and Territories 1.2million participants nationally 320,276 registered members 560 affiliated associations 637 San Remo NetSetGO! centres 24,129 NetSetGO! participants

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 13 President’s Report

It is with great pleasure that I provide this report on behalf of the Netball Australia Board.

Noeleen Dix Passion, pride and rivalry was a key theme Vale President this year as the Australian 21/U team Netball Australia The Netball family was saddened over the stood victorious as World Champions last 12 months by the passing of some in the Cook Islands and the Diamonds individuals who contributed enormously battled their foes from across the Tasman to our sport; Flo Starcevich, Michele to win a five match Test series. It has Buck, Dot Quarry and Margaret Morris. been a remarkable year, building on the momentum of our watershed year of 2008 Significant Achievements with significant increases in the television audiences, crowds and the media profile of There have been many significant our game and our players. achievements throughout the 2009 season. Congratulations to Coach It has also been a year when the long Simone McKinnis OAM and the awaited recommendations of the Australian 21/U team on winning the Independent Sport Panel on the Future World Youth Netball Championships. of Sport in Australia were announced. Australia was also well represented Netball Australia welcomes the debate in Cook Islands by umpires and I that the Crawford report has stimulated, congratulate Josh Bowring, Kate Wright, and the recommendations around making Helen George, Clare McCabe and sport and physical education a priority Michelle Phippard. in the education system. Sport has been waiting a long time for an opportunity Josh Bowring and Mark Henning were like this and we should embrace the awarded their AA badges this year and opportunity for change. Josh and Helen George were also honored with an International Umpire Award. Bushfires and floods Congratulations to the three new High This year has had many wonderful Performance Coaches: Cathy Fellows highlights but it has also been a time of (Vic), Kristy Keppich-Birrell (Vic) and sadness. The Board acknowledges all Paula Stuart (QLD). those people who suffered losses as a result of the Victorian bushfires and the floods. Our thoughts and best wishes are with all those in the netball community who were affected by these devastating natural disasters.

14 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia International Service Award The finals series was surely in the hands Commercial of a master script writer with the final four Congratulations to Maureen Boyle on We are indebted to, and thank our coming down to the wire and featuring receiving an International Service Award. sponsors including the Australian Sports two New Zealand and two Australian Commission, Holden, San Remo, ANZ, Maureen and Chris Burton also received teams. Whoever it was, they got it right Broadcast Partner - Network Ten and ONE a presentation from the International with an all-Australian Grand Final! President for their work in the HD, Lorraine Lea Linen, New Idea, Kukri, international arena. Congratulations to the Adelaide Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Thunderbirds and the Australia, Gilbert, Asics, Artline, Skins Hall of Fame on making the Grand Final. It was a and Beiersdorf. fantastic occasion, in front of a sell-out We are very proud of our relationship Congratulations to Hall of Fame new crowd at Hisense Arena and of course with our Health Partners beyondblue and General Members: Gwen Benzie, Anne the Vixens finally lived up to their ‘Dream National Breast Cancer Foundation. Both Clark, Lorna McConchie and Athlete Team’ tag with co-captain and Grand organisations are doing wonderful work in Members: Jill McIntosh, Gaye Teede and Final MVP Sharelle McMahon leading her our community. . team to a comprehensive victory.

Nationals ANL Members Increasingly our sport is working together State rivalry was on show at the Nationals The continued the state’s for the greater good. The work of the in Canberra in April. NSW took honours winning streak, defeating the AIS to take Member Organisation Boards and Staff in the 19/U and 21 & U titles while South back-to-back titles in the new look New is highly valued and we thank them for Australia claimed its first title in 11 years Idea Australian National League, featuring their passion and commitment to this by defeating in the 17/U division. a team from Singapore for the first time. wonderful sport. ANZ Championship Diamonds The hundreds of thousands of volunteers The level of interest in the ANZ It’s always a good year when we defeat throughout Australia who make this sport Championship increased across the the Silver Ferns and the Diamonds sealed so successful – keep up the great work. board. Congratulations to General a 3-2 win against NZ in a tough match in We have benefited enormously from Manager Anthony Everard and his team . Our Holden International Test the work of my fellow Directors and I for their tremendous work. Series was a huge success, with three of thank them for their ongoing support Television audiences were up 52% across our four matches sold out weeks before and commitment. Australia and New Zealand, from 5.8 the games, including the successful I would like to leave you with the words million to 8.8 million, thanks largely to the launch of the World Selection Team of Hall of Fame member Gwen Benzie move to free to air television in Australia at ETSA Park. following her induction - via our partnership with Network TEN. I’d Congratulations to new Australian like to thank both and Network Diamonds squad members Johannah ‘The privileges honor and opportunities TEN for their marvellous coverage and Curran, and . I have received are food for my ego, but the way they highlight the athleticism of the trust placed in me, the friendship so our players and the entertainment value Renae Hallinan debuted as an Australian apparent on the night are food for my soul. of our matches. Netball Diamond and went on to have I have indeed been blessed.’ a brilliant international campaign, and Attendance figures also showed a healthy Captain Sharelle McMahon joined a list increase. At the end of the home and of the greats when she played her 100th away season, they were up 12% from Test cap at the Brisbane Convention and 180,000 in 2008 to 201,000 in 2009. Entertainment Centre. Congratulations Congratulations to Romelda Aitkin, ANZ Sharelle, a magnificent achievement. Championship Most Valuable Player and Although it doesn’t qualify as a Test cap, to , who had their first win I’d also like to congratulate Jo Curran since the inception of the competition on taking the court as an Australian when they defeated the NSW Swifts. Diamond for the first time at the World Our illustrious former captain Liz Ellis lost Netball Series in Manchester and Caitlin her battle with Luke Darcy in the Festival Thwaites for stepping out as a Diamond of the Stars match but that, and Rivalry against the World Selection Team Round, proved winners with the fans. in Adelaide. These are the kinds of initiatives that we will continue to explore in promoting the entertainment value of our sport and positioning it as the ‘hottest game in town’.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 15 Chief Executive’s Report

The past twelve months has been marked by some significant achievements for the organisation.

Kate Palmer Chief Executive Officer Netball Australia At the September national Strategic Rob Smith at SEL have been critical to Forum Delegates and General Managers our commercial strategy and go far above from around the country and the National and beyond for the benefit of netball. Board Directors took a deep breath Our partnership with ‘ and and reflected on what has been two ONE HD has changed our world. Higher extraordinary years. These are the people profile, more fans, greater corporate who have led our sport through enormous support and ratings that prove we have a change and it is not often that they stop great product. to say ‘we’re not doing too bad...well The Australian Sports Commission done everyone!’ It is not that the sport partnered Netball Australia in funding a or its leaders are becoming complacent. commercialization project with GEMBA. There is certainly so much more to do. The focus of the project was to capitalize However the work of this group should on the ‘wave’ of success the sport is not go unnoticed as it what drives the experiencing as a result of the close sport to bigger and better things. alignment between national and state The past twelve months has been marked priorities and the successful launch and by some significant achievements implementation of the ANZ Championship. for the sport and as we complete the The recommendations from this are second year of the current strategic driving a range of new projects and will plan, the focus has been very much on inform the future plans of the sport. achievement of our national priorities. Six Chief Commercial Officer Marne Fechner of the eight States and Territories have has worked with research partner supported the ‘one brand’ strategy, all Stollznow to establish some strong Member Organisations have achieved evidence around brand, participation and success in implementing NetSetGO!, the fans. We have never been better informed licencing and merchandise program has and the outcome of this research has been expanded to include a netball range established a body of evidence for our available in Target nationwide, a new sport to make sound decisions. event product is in development stage and our technology strategy is on track. We have benefited enormously from the ideas and advice from many of our partners. In particular Basil Scaffidi and

16 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Netball’s Senior Sport Consultant Chief Operating Officer Jamie Parsons at the ASC Wanda Sipa is always on led a project to establish a national Risk hand to guide and support. Wanda Register. All MO participated in this takes an active interest in the direction project and the outcome provides a high of netball and plays a critical role in level risk register that identifies clear strengthening netball’s links with both strategies to mitigate against these risks. the ASC and the AIS. National Delegates met at two Strategic Dr Russell Hoye was engaged to Forums to debate a range of critical undertake a national ‘Strengthening issues for the sport. This included the Governance’ Project. The project high performance pathways, the national surveyed a total of 53 board members umpire framework, national competitions, and CEO/GMs of Netball Australia and communication and the national delivery the Member Organisations (MOs). The framework. These Forums are critical for purpose of the survey was to assess setting the scene nationally and along the degree to which individual board with the General Manager meetings members were satisfied with the establish strong relationships between performance of their respective boards. the national and state bodies. The data was aggregated to provide a snapshot of the perceptions of all Financial Performance directors and CEO/GMs at national and In a year where the organization initiated state levels within Netball. Separate so many new projects the organization reports for each MO and NA were performed well to achieve a small surplus made available that compare respective of $1,496. organisations to the overall mean and recommendations made for action to The Audit & Risk Committee consisting of strengthen governance in the sport. Chair Pam Smith and Directors Andrew Scott and Marina Go were diligent in Partnerships with the ASC, Australian monitoring the performance Commonwealth Games Association and of the organization and staff managed the Australian Netball Players Association their respective budgets with skill. become even more critical as prepares Australian athletes for the Commonwealth Games in 2010 Board and Staff and the World Netball Championships On behalf of all staff members I express in 2011. The focus is on ensuring the my admiration for the commitment of the athletes have everything they need to Netball Australia Directors who lead us so represent our country and it takes a well capably. coordinated, experienced and dedicated I thank all staff members for their ongoing team to make this happen. enthusiasm. They are a great team and there is not a day that we don’t enjoy working on behalf of this wonderful sport.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 17 Coach Profile Simone McKinnis OAM

When and why did you fi rst start coaching? Biography I fi rst started coaching when I was invited by , a Playing career former Australian coach, to be her assistant at the in the competition. Australian representative 1986-98 67 Test caps How did you progress to the level you are today? Commonwealth Games gold medal 1998 After being assistant coach to Joyce and then at the Melbourne Phoenix I took up the opportunity to establish World Championship gold 1991, 1995 the high performance netball program at the newly established Melbourne Phoenix captain 1997-98 Singapore Sports School. I spent almost four years there and gained great experience in running a full time program Premiership winners 1997 as Head Coach. From there the opportunity arose to coach at the Australian Institute of Sport which led on to the 21/U Coaching career coaching role. Melbourne Phoenix assistant coach

What do you think are the hardest and easiest parts Singapore Sports School netball Academy coach of your job? Australian Institute of Sport coach 2007-current The hardest part about my job is that it can become all Australian 21/U coach 2008-current consuming especially in this environment which is a full time residential program at the AIS. I’m not so sure that there is World Youth Netball Championship winning coach 2009 anything necessarily ‘easy’ about coaching but one of the most enjoyable aspects is watching athletes that you have worked with progress and achieve in their sport.

What has been your most memorable coaching achievement? My most memorable moment would defi nitely be the recent World Youth Championships Title win in the Cook Islands. It was a fantastic coaching experience to work with the calibre of individuals/team that I had. Winning back the title for Australia was a fantastic experience and one that I will cherish forever.

18 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Organisational Structure

Human resources Member Organisations The organisation welcomed new staff Best wishes and good luck to General members Georgia Campbell (General Managers Greg Humphries (SA), Noel Manager – Events), Lindy Murphy Harrod (ACT), Sue Chilman (NT) and Sue (International Event Manager), Angela Crow (VIC) who all moved on to new Colless (Media and Communications oganisations and welcome to Stephanie Coordinator), Toni Patsalides (Production Green (SA) and Sue Shearer (NT) who and Design Manager), Karen Phelan were appointed during the year. (General Manager – Media and Communications) and Jane Borneman (Account Manager). Netball Australia also said goodbye to the following people, all of whom contributed to the success of the 2009 netball year: Eloise Hudson, Phouty Sivieng, Catherine Wall, Tracey Parish, Claire Wolfensohn and Brad Sang.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Finance Manager Chief Executive Offi cer Executive Assistant Kristie Adrienne Kirby Kate Palmer Middleton

Chief Commercial Offi cer Chief Operating Offi cer Marne Fechner Jamie Parsons

MARKETING & SPONSORSHIP & EVENTS HIGH PERFORMANCE NATIONAL TEAM SPORTS DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION COMMUNICATIONS LICENSING

General Manager – Media Account Manager General Manager – NMAS/IT & Communications * General Manager – National Coach General Manager Events * (3 days) Sport Development * Coordinator (3 days) High Performance * Norma Plummer Georgia Campbell Leigh Mawby Natalie Wright Boyd AnneMarie Phippard Phouty Sivieng Karen Phelan

Media & Communications National Event Manager Account Manager High Performance National Director Manager National Team Manager Reception (3 days) (full time) Coordinator of Umpiring Emma White Margaret Molina Jackie Ousalkas Jane Borneman Nicole Malcher Chris Burton Julie Richardson (nee Robinson)

International Event Media & Communications High Performance Coach Development & AIS 21/U Coach Manager (2 days) Coordinator Assistant Participation Manager Simone McKinnis OAM Lindy Murphy Angela Colless Amy Petropoulos Carol Byers

Production & Design Community Programs AIS Scholarship Coach Manager Manager Nicole Cusack Toni Patsalides Annette Hatherley

National NetSetGO! AIS Coach Coordinator Sue Gaudion Sarah Bowman

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 19 High Performance

Australian Netball Diamonds National Program Overview International Planning It was a strong year for Australian netball, Facilitated by RogenSi Director and Agreement in principle has been with the Diamonds retaining their world national programs sports psychologist, reached with a number of countries number one ranking at the conclusion Dr Clark Perry, ANZ Championship and on a reciprocal basis with reference to of 2009. Renae Hallinan was the single SISSAS Coaches met at the Australian national competition pathways, for long Diamond debutante however another Institute of Sport for two days in February. term planning to 2014 following a series run of injuries, this time among key The two days included an overview of of international meetings in August and defensive players, meant that other the national programs, outline of the October. squad members were quick to capitalise coordination of SSSM, goaling research, on the opportunities for more court time the beyond blue partnership and the Club Champions Program that came their way. opportunity to network. Netball is a signatory to the multi sport Norma Plummer continued in her task of The coaches also had the opportunity to Federal Government Alcohol Code of building depth among the squad as the meet in November and review the year Conduct. We are currently working with key milestones of Commonwealth Games and plan ahead. the Department of Health and Ageing (2010) and World Netball Championship (DOHA) in the development of educational (2011) draw closer. The Holden Netball Pathway to Podium (P2P) resources including a multi sport DVD. Test Series, in the second year of a This strategic advisory group was four-year cycle, continued to provide a established by the Australian Sports stage for the uniquely Australian brand Commission. Netball is fortunate in that of netball – low and hard – and the it is one of a few sports to be offered this Diamonds prevailed over the Silver Ferns opportunity and the only non-Olympic 3 – 2 after a series of five Test matches sport. The group provides an opportunity held in Australia and New Zealand. for the Netball Australia President, CEO and GM High Performance to work closely with the decision makers of high performance sport at Director level within the ASC and the AIS. Technical direction will continue to be provided by the National Coach as will consultation with ANZ and SISSAS coaches through an annual meeting and regular communication.

20 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia SISSAS SISSAS provide the daily training SISSAS programs are an integral part environment for Diamonds and 21/U of the holistic development and support squad members. Diamonds that have of national athletes and netball is proud progressed through the SIS/SAS to have been included as a program network netball programs include: again in 2009 at the VIS, NSWIS, NTIS , Natalie von Bertouch and WAIS. We are working together (SASI), , , to finalise the continued inclusion of Susan Fuhrmann (WAIS), Julie Corletto, programs with SASI and TIS. Madison Browne, Renae Hallinan (VIS), , Susan Pratley (NSWIS) Thanks to Wes Battams for his support as chair of National Elite Sports Council ANPA (NESC) over the past four years and Netball has an enduring and collaborative congratulations to Steve Lawrence on relationship with the ANPA and thanks his appointment to this role. President John Paul Blandthorn for the Thanks also to Marg Angove (OAM) collegiate manner in which support of who retires as coach of the SASI netball athletes is conducted. program after 20 years of service and Stacey West who has returned to Melbourne after six years as coach of the NTIS Netball Program. SISSAS programs and MO programs also support the National Underage Camp and squad programs which provides quality depth and sustainability for the sport.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 21 High Performance

In 2008 the New Idea Australian Netball League (ANL) was created to address the gap between State Leagues and the ANZ Championship and to provide a national competition opportunity for non ANZ Championship States Tasmania, ACT and NT.

Competition Australian Netball League (ANL) Australian Commonwealth Pathway Review • To remain open age and promoted as Games Association (ACGA) In 2007 as part of the evaluation and our premier domestic competition The ACGA supports the preparation review of the high performance strategic program of the Road to Delhi 2010, which plan a national pathways presentation National Netball includes assistance via the Australian was made to the Australian Sports Championships (NNC) Junior Commonwealth Games Squad Commission (ASC). The strategic plan • The 17/U and 19/U NNC be held on funding, which aided our underage was endorsed by the ASC. rotation each April with reference to programs and the reclaiming of the World school terms and Easter Youth Netball Championship gold medal. Central to the plan were the high performance pathways, articulating • The 21/U NNC to be held on rotation the need for flexibility and to address Australian Sport the gaps between State Leagues, ANZ, Imports Commission (ASC) 21/U and Diamonds in order to maintain • To be co-ordinated/facilitated with the Thanks to Wanda Sipa, ASC sport world number 1 status through depth assistance of Netball Australia, final consultant and Dr Peter Fricker, Phil and sustainability of the resources i.e. decision to remain with the athlete Borgeaud, Ian Rutledge and team at the athletes, coaches, umpires, officials AIS for their support of netball and the and support staff.  national high performance program. In 2008 the New Idea Australian Netball League (ANL) was created to address the gap between State Leagues and the ANZ Championship.

22 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 2009 Diamonds Squad National Selectors New World International Sharelle McMahon (captain) Carole Sykes Netball Series Natalie von Bertouch (vice-captain) Susan Kenny OAM Sharelle McMahon (captain) Caitlin Bassett WA Natalie von Bertouch (vice-captain) SA Julie Corletto Holden Netball Test Series Kate Beveridge WA Sharelle McMahon (captain) Shae Bolton VIC Johannah Curran Natalie von Bertouch (vice-captain) Madison Browne VIC Susan Fuhrmann Kate Beveridge VIC Kimberlee Green Madison Browne VIC Renae Hallinan Julie Corletto Julie Corletto VIC Natalie Medhurst Catherine Cox Catherine Cox NSW Johannah Curran Johannah Curran VIC Susan Pratley Susan Fuhrmann Susan Fuhrmann WA Amy Steel Kimberlee Green QLD Renae Hallinan Mo’onia Gerrard NSW Kate Beveridge & Rebecca Bulley travelled Lauren Nourse with the team as training partners. Kate Kimberlee Green NSW Susan Pratley Beveridge was named in the team for Renae Hallinan VIC the Test following an injury to Amy Steel Natalie Medhurst SA Catherine Cox. Chelsey Nash VIC Coach Norma Plummer Lauren Nourse SA Coach Norma Plummer Assistant Coach Roselee Jencke OAM Susan Pratley NSW Assistant Coach Roselee Jencke OAM Manager Margaret Molina Amy Steel VIC Manager Margaret Molina Doctor Kathryn Gaffney Joanne Suttton NSW Doctor Kathryn Gaffney Physiotherapist Sean Mungovan VIC Physiotherapist Sean Mungovan Massage Therapist Matthew Durston Massage Therapist Matthew Durston Video Analyst Lyndell Bruce Video Analyst Lyndell Bruce

Australian Netball Diamonds v. World Selection Sharelle McMahon (captain) Natalie von Bertouch (vice-captain) Julie Corletto Catherine Cox Johannah Curran Susan Fuhrmann Kimberlee Green Renae Hallinan Lauren Nourse Susan Pratley Amy Steel Caitlin Thwaites

Coach Norma Plummer Assistant Coach Roselee Jencke OAM Manager Margaret Molina Doctor Kathryn Gaffney Physiotherapist Sean Mungovan Massage Therapist Matthew Durston Video Analyst Lyndell Bruce

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 23 High Performance

Cooperative World Netball England v. Australia Jamaica v. Australia Series (FAST NET) Sharelle McMahon (captain) Sharelle McMahon (captain) Natalie von Bertouch (captain) Natalie von Bertouch (vice captain) Natalie von Bertouch (vice captain) Kate Beveridge Kate Beveridge Kate Beveridge Rebecca Bulley Rebecca Bulley Rebecca Bulley Bianca Chatfield Bianca Chatfield Bianca Chatfield Catherine Cox SusanFuhrmann Catherine Cox Johannah Curran Mo’onia Gerrard Johannah Curran Susan Fuhrmann Kimberlee Green Susan Fuhrmann Kimberlee Green Renae Hallinan Mo’onia Gerrard Renae Hallinan Natalie Medhurst Kimberlee Green Natalie Medhurst Lauren Nourse Renae Hallinan Lauren Nourse Susan Pratley Natalie Medhurst Susan Pratley Lauren Nourse Johannah Curran & Catherine Cox Susan Pratley Mo’onia Gerrard & Sharelle McMahon omitted travelled with the team as training Coach Norma Plummer partners. Coach Norma Plummer Assistant Coach Susan Kenny OAM Assistant Coach Susan Kenny OAM Manager Margaret Molina Coach Norma Plummer Manager Margaret Molina Doctor Michael Makdissi Assistant Coach Susan Kenny OAM Doctor Michael Makdissi Physiotherapist Sean Mungovan Manager Margaret Molina Physiotherapist Sean Mungovan Massage Therapist Matthew Durston Doctor Michael Makdissi Massage Therapist Matthew Durston Video Analyst Lyndell Bruce Physiotherapist Sean Mungovan Video Analyst Lyndell Bruce Massage Therapist Matthew Durston Video Analyst Lyndell Bruce

24 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Results

Australia – Holden Netball Test Series New Zealand – New World World Netball Series – England International Netball Series September 2 October 9 – 11 ETSA Park Adelaide September 20 MEN Stadium, Manchester World Selection 52 d Diamonds 43 , Invercargill Diamonds 31 d Jamaica 26 Diamonds 47 d Silver Ferns 46 Diamonds 31 d Malawi 19 September 6 Diamonds 25 d New Zealand 22 Acer Arena, September 23 Diamonds 37 d Samoa 18 Silver Ferns 53 d Diamonds 50 Vector Arena, Auckland England 25 d Diamonds 19 Silver Ferns 52 d Diamonds 36 September 9 Semi Final Hisense Arena, Melbourne Australian Netball Diamonds won series New Zealand 27 d Diamonds 17 Diamonds 48 d Silver Ferns 44 3 v 4 September 13 Diamonds 28 d England 18 Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Brisbane Australian Netball Diamonds Diamonds 36 d Silver Ferns 33 placed 3rd The Cooperative Test Match – Bath, England October 13 University of Bath Diamonds 55 d England 44 Australia v. Jamaica October 17 Kingston, Jamaica Diamonds 53 d Jamaica 51 October 18 Kingston, Jamaica Jamaica 56 d Diamonds 55 Drawn series

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 25 High Performance

26 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 27 High Performance

Australian 21/U Program Jamaican Tour Results The Australian 21/U team capped off a Bassett Caitlin (WA) Game 1 remarkable year by reclaiming the title Bolton Shae (VIC) Jamalco Super League Team of World Champions at the World Youth 45 d. Australia 41 Borger Kimberley ( NSW) Netball Championships in the Cook Game 2 Browne Madison (VIC – withdrawn, injury) Islands. Under the direction of coach and Australia 60 d. Jamaica 21s, 27 former Australian wing defence Simone Croft Sophie (QLD) Game 3 McKinnis OAM, the team beat arch Eagland Shannon (VIC) Australia 52 d. Jamaica 21s, 26 rivals New Zealand 64 - 46 after going Gilmore Andrea (WA) undefeated throughout the tournament. Game 4 (VIC. co vice captain) Australia 55 d. Jamaica 21s, 39 The support of VIS Coaching Scholarship Josie Janz (WA) recipient, Cathy Fellowes throughout the WYNC campaign was mutually beneficial Sharni Layton (VIC – captain) to both parties. Laura Scherian (QLD) The team also toured Jamaica in 2009 Amy Steel (VIC) and put on a dominant display, winning all Courtney Tairi (NSW co vice captain) three Tests against the Jamaican 21s.

The team had a final preparation weekend Coach Simone McKinnis OAM in Townsville, QLD, before heading to the Specialist Coach Nicole Cusack Cook Islands. Thanks to Netball QLD and Townsville for their support. Manager Donna Monteath Doctor Bianca Scotney 21/U Squad Physiotherapist Steve Hawkins Candice Adams (QLD), Caitlin Basset Massage Therapist Gamal Darwish (WA), Shae Bolton (VIC), Kimberly Borger Performance Analyst Nikki Smart (NSW), (NSW), Madison Browne (VIC), Tegan Caldwell (VIC), Sophie Croft (QLD), Shannon Eagland (VIC), Rachel Forbes (QLD), Andrea Under the direction of coach Gilmore (WA), Ashlee Howard (VIC), Josie Janz (WA), Sharni Layton (VIC), April Letton (NSW), Chelsea Pitman (NSW), and former Australian wing Kara Richards (VIC), Laura Scherian (QLD), Amy Steel (VIC), Courtney Tairi (NSW) and defence Simone McKinnis Amy Wild (NSW) OAM, the team beat arch rivals New Zealand 64 – 46 after going undefeated throughout the tournament.

28 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 2009 World Youth Australian Institute Championship Team of Sport (AIS) Caitlin Bassett (WA) The 2009 AIS program included a ten-day Shae Bolton (VIC) tour of South Africa in May. During this tour the team played three matches against the Kimberly Borger (NSW ruled out South African 21/U team, three matches due to injury) against province teams and conducted a Madison Browne (VIC - captain) clinic for 16/U students in Port Elizabeth. Tegan Caldwell (VIC – to replace The AIS scholarship holders competed in Kimberly Borger) the New Idea Australian Netball and were Sophie Croft (QLD) runners up to Victorian Fury. Shannon Eagland (VIC) Eleven of the 12 AIS Scholarship holders Andrea Gilmore (WA) were members of the 2009 WYNC squad Ashlee Howard (VIC) and seven were members of the team. Sharni Layton (VIC – vice captain) Laura Scherian (QLD) Head Coach Simone McKinnis OAM Amy Steel (VIC) Coach Sue Gaudion Courtney Tairi (NSW) Scholarship Coach Nicole Cusack

Coach Simone McKinnis OAM Specialist Coach Nicole Cusack Manager Donna Monteath Doctor Bianca Scotney Physiotherapist Steve Hawkins Massage Therapist Gamal Darwish Performance Analyst Nikki Smart

Results Australia (73) d. South Africa (22) Australia (89) d. Samoa (38) Australia (97) d. Botswana (11) Australia (97) d. Fiji (26) Qualifying Final Australia (86) d. Cook Islands (17) Semi Final Australia (63) d. England (42) Final Australia (64) d. New Zealand (46)

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 29 High Performance

2009 Awards

Anne Clark Award – Courtney Tairi Players’ Player Award – Sharni Layton Graduating athletes The Anne Clark Award recognises an AIS This award is voted by the athletes, athlete who displays outstanding skills scholarship holders of the AIS Sharni Layton on court, demonstrates strong leadership Netball Program, as the athlete who and who conducts herself in an exemplary demonstrates commitment, dedication Sophie Croft manner off the court. The recipient for and represents the values of the AIS. Jacqui Russell 2009 was midcourter and member of the Recipient Sharni Layton was the Laura Scherian Australian 21/U team, Courtney Tairi. Australian 21/U vice captain at the World Amy Steel Youth Netball Championships. Gweneth Benzie Award – Amy Steel Underpinning squad The AIS Netball Program, Coach The recipient of the Gweneth Benzie Candice Adams Simone McKinnis OAM and Amy Steel Award is the athlete considered to Rachel Forbes were all nominated for 2009 AIS awards have the greatest potential to represent which were announced on 12 November. NSW Swifts the Australian Netball Diamonds. The Ashleigh Brazill athlete must possess a sound attitude, AIS Junior Athlete of the Year – Kimberly Borger commitment and work effort; display all Amy Steel Courtney Tairi the attributes of good sportsmanship Amy Steel was announced as joint winner and be a worthy ambassador for Netball. Canterbury Tactix of AIS Junior Athlete of the Year award Previous recipients include Demelza Chelsea Pitman along with endurance/road racing cyclist Fellowes, Jane Altschwager, Susan Jack Bobridge. Pratley and Laura Geitz. The recipient in 2010 AIS Scholarship holders 2009 was Amy Steel. This is the second • Tegan Ashmore (VIC) time Amy has received the award. 2009 Scholarship holders • Candice Adams (QLD) • Briony Carlyon (WA) • Kimberly Borger (NSW) • April Letton* (NSW) • Ashleigh Brazill (NSW) • Chanel Gomes (QLD) • Sophie Croft (QLD) • Heidi Wilson (QLD) • Shannon Eagland(VIC) • (SA) • Rachel Forbes (QLD) • Kellyann Grayson (NSW) • Sharni Layton (VIC) • Mary Livesey (VIC) • April Letton (NSW) • Nicola Gray (NSW) • Chelsea Pitman (NSW) • Shannon Eagland* (VIC) • Jacqui Russell (QLD) • Simone Nalder (VIC) • Laura Scherian (QLD) • (QLD) • Amy Steel (VIC) • Verity Simmons (NSW)

• Courtney Tairi (NSW) *Returning atheletes

Recipients of the Gweneth Benzie Award Laura Geitz (left) and Amy Steel (right) with Gwen Benzie at the 2009 Australia Netball Awards.

30 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Talent Identification and 19/U Squad 17/U Squad Development Program Tiata Baldwin (QLD), Georgia Beaton Anita Blanco (NSW), The 2009 National Netball Championships (SA - unable to attend Underage Camp (VIC), Laura Clemesha (QLD), Paige were again run as a combined event, due to Thunderbirds commitments), Hadley (NSW), Joanna Hawley (VIC), featuring the 17/U, 19/U and 21/U age Sally Butters (QLD), Sarah East (WA), Kaylene Hill (SA), Shannon Holmes (QLD), groups however there were a number of Alexandra Feggans (QLD), Chanel Gomes Karley Hynes (VIC), Chloe Joyce (SA), new initiatives to come from the tournament. (QLD), Nicola Gray (NSW), Kellyann Hannah Lee (NSW), Sarah Main (VIC), Grayson (NSW), Mary Livesey (VIC), Laura Marslen (SA), Brooke Miller (NSW), For the first time, an award was made Alison Lovat (NSW), Natarlia Manning Madeleine Proud (SA), Kate Shimmin (SA), in each age group for the San Remo (NSW), Simone Nalder (VIC), Holly Pearce (NSW), Ellie Smart (WA), Most Valuable Player. Kate Shimmin (SA, (QLD), Samantha Poolman (NSW), Verity Michaela Wilson (VIC), Nicola Yeeles (SA) 17/U), Natarlia Manning (NSW, 19/U) and Simmons (NSW), Luka Thompson (SA), Kate Yensch (VIC). Kimberly Borger (NSW 21/U) were the Laura Packard (SA), Mia Washbourne respective winners. (WA), Stephanie Wood (QLD), Keira Wills A 19/U team was also named for the (VIC) and Heidi Wilson (QLD) to replace first time at the National Underage Talent Georgia Beaton Camp from the available athletes. The selected team participated in dedicated 19/U Team sessions and played two matches against Sally Butters (QLD) the AIS squad. Sarah East (WA) In future years the High Performance Unit Alexandra Feggans (QLD) will seek to provide further development Nicola Gray (NSW) and national representation opportunities Chanel Gomes (QLD) for athletes, coaches and umpires at the this level. April Letton (NSW) Alison Lovat (NSW – reserve) Simone Nalder (VIC) Holly Pearce (QLD) Samantha Poolman (NSW) Kate Shimmin (SA) Verity Simmons (NSW) Mia Washbourne (WA – reserve) Stephanie Wood (QLD)

Coach Michelle Wilkins Assistant Coach Stacey West Manager Donna Harrison

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 31 Sports Development

Participation Schools San Remo NetSetGO! Netball Australia has signed an MOU with School Sport Australia, taking The popular San Remo NetSetGO! another step towards the development program had another successful year in of a national school strategy. A Teacher 2009, with the number of participants Professional Development workshop and centres increasing substantially. The was also developed in 2009. program received considerable media attention at the local level, with junior netballers providing great photos of active, engaged children playing sport in a safe and friendly environment. Several San Remo NetSetGO! centres were lucky enough to be selected for half-time demonstrations at the Holden Netball Test Series, a highlight for the players and their parents. A new, feature-packed San Remo NetSetGO! website will broaden the appeal of the program when it is launched in early 2010. San Remo NetSetGO! snapshot 86% growth from 2008 – 2009 637 centres 24,129 participants

Indigenous 99 centres 3,994 participants

Disability (Netball CONNECT) 35 centres 1,652 participants

32 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Sports Development

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 33 Sports Development

Coach Development Umpire Development • Netball Australia hosted two umpires Congratulations to our three new High 2009 was a highly successful year for from Singapore during the National Performance Coaches: Cathy Fellows Australian umpiring with many highlights Netball Championships in April. Eric (VIC), Kristy Keppich-Birrell (VIC) and and achievements to record. Lee and Yu Bing Lee bot achieved Paula Stuart (QLD). their Singapore A grade badges during • Congratulations to new All Australia the tournament. The National Mentoring Program (AA) badge holders Joshua Bowring • The Section 1 Umpire Theory continued, providing Melinda Clarke and Marc Henning. Di Crocker, Sue Examination was launched online in (ACT), Belinda Scanlon (NT) and Ebony Floro, Rachel Richards and Pauline May 2009 and had over 11,000 users Ellen (TAS) with the opportunity to Francisco also had their AA badges by the end of the year. gain experience in a high performance endorsed. • A national Umpire Talent Squad coaching environment. • Helen George and Joshua Bowring program – ‘Class of 2009’ – received new International Umpire Another 14 coaches, including was implemented. representatives from each MO, attended Awards (IUA), and Clare McCabe the National Junior Development Camp received an endorsed IUA. 2009 Badges at the AIS in July. The program provided • Congratulations to Maureen Boyle C Badges 957 the coaches with mentoring, warm-up, on her IFNA Service Award. B Badges 133 recovery and exercise sessions as well as • Five Australian umpires were selected the opportunity to learn from experienced to officiate at the World Youth Netball A Badges 12 AIS, SIS and SAS coaches. Championships in the Cook Islands: AA Badges 2 In 2009 the ASC approved all six Coach Joshua Bowring, Helen George, Accreditation Courses, and the new Clare McCabe, Michelle Phippard Total 1122 Presenter and Assessor Accreditations. and Kate Wright. The new High Performance Accreditation • Sharon Kelly, Jacqui Jashari, ANZ Championship Course was delivered to seven Michelle Phippard, Paula Ferguson The 2009 Australian ANZ Championship participants in February. and Marc Henning were all appointed umpires were: for international Tests, while Tara Gregory and Peta Quinn received Rachael Ayre international invites. Sue Floro Pauline Francisco Helen George Jacqui Jashari Sharon Kelly Clare McCabe Kate Wright

34 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia In 2009 the ASC approved all six Coach Accreditation Courses, and the new Presenter and Assessor Accreditations. The new High Performance Accreditation Course was delivered to seven participants in February.

Netball Australia off Netball CONNECT Indigenous to Samoa Netball Australia continued to provide There are now 3879 indigenous Netball Australia’s GM of Sport opportunities for disabled players to participants involved in NetSetGO! Development AnneMarie Phippard and engage in netball and there are now in their own communities and schools. Coach Development and Participation 1652 participants involved in NetSetGO! In 2009, Netball Australia provided Manager Carol Byers travelled to programs at special schools. training and support to Indigenous Sport Samoa in November 2009 as part of the Formalised partnership arrangements Development Officers and indigenous Australian Sports Outreach Program with Deaf Sports Australia and AUSRAPID communities in Narrabri, Armidale, (ASOP). Four Samoan villages selected has resulted in the development of a Deaf Moree, Bundaberg, Torres Strait, netball as their chosen sport in order Coaching Resource which will be rolled Toowomba, Palm Island and the Central to provide opportunities specifically out in 2010. Desert Shire (Alice Springs). for women and Phippard and Byers were involved in training village-based Netball Australia has now progressed facilitators to deliver regular, quality from Bronze to Silver level of the ASC’s netball programs and competitions. Sports CONNECT program. The Netball Australia-developed program aimed to assist Samoa Netball personnel to develop the village based netball program by ‘training the trainer’. Over the course of seven days, Phippard and Byers travelled with the new facilitators and assisted with the delivery of the new netball program at village level. The response was enthusiastic and 2009 Coach Accreditation women participating in the program Foundation 2637 ranged from 17 to 63 years old. Development 309 The two also held a strategic Intermediate 109 planning workshop to assist the Samoa Netball Association to Advanced 17 establish a development plan. High Performance 3 The program continues to thrive today. Presenter 43 Advanced Presenter 25

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 35 Commercial Operations

Sponsorship A new partnership was also launched In 2009 the global fi nancial crisis heralded in September with Walt Disney Studios tough times for all and netball was no Australia, positioning this iconic brand exception, with the task of negotiating as a support sponsor of the San Remo new partnerships expected to be a NetSetGO! program from 2010. particular challenge. Notwithstanding Sport and Entertainment Limited (SEL) the gloomy economic outlook, Netball continued to provide additional expertise Australia successfully renegotiated the and resources to facilitate growth in the extension of three major partnerships – area of sponsorship, while the Australian Holden (2 years), San Remo (3 years) and Sports Commission continues its Lorraine Lea Linen (2 years). considerable support across all areas of the sport. The achievements of 2009 are undoubtedly based on the strength of our relationships with netball’s partners. In 2010 Netball Australia’s Commercial Operations team will continue to consolidate and deliver great value and results to our partners to ensure long term success, while working towards some key goals, such as securing a major sponsor for the Australian Netball Diamonds.

36 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Commercial Operations Television coverage of increased significantly in 2009 thanks primarily to the move of ANZ Championship matches to free to air television via Network Ten and its high definition sports channel ONE.

Branding Other key achievements in 2009 were New Idea continued its support of netball the development of the Australian Netball and Member Organisations worked hard Branding continued to be a strategic Awards brand mark and refresh of the to maximize the exposure of their ANZ priority for 2009 and the sport has NetSetGO! mark. Work continues on the Championship teams and players in focused on building equity in both the development of an International Trophy News Ltd newspapers. The Vixens and Australian Netball Diamonds and Netball for Tests played between Australia and Thunderbirds received unprecedented brands. The adoption of the Australian New Zealand, which is expected to be coverage in local media markets in Netball Diamonds brand has been launched by mid-2010. the lead up to the ANZ Championship particularly successful, and it is pleasing Grand Final. to see the ‘Diamonds’ regularly referred to in the media. Media and Broadcast In 2010 the Commercial Operations Unit Television coverage of netball in will continue build on our existing media Steps were also taken in 2009 towards Australia increased significantly in 2009 relationships to maximize media exposure the goal of achieving one brand for the thanks primarily to the move of ANZ of netball in Australia and, in doing so, sport, with Netball Queensland moving to Championship matches to free to air broaden the profile and appeal of our the National brand. Positive discussions television via Network Ten and its high athletes to ensure that our key players with Netball NSW and definition sports channel ONE. Ten become household names. continue and this will continue to be a produced a new television commercial priority in 2010. specifically to promote its broadcasts of Another key focus in 2009 was the the Holden Netball Test Series – a first for development of a Netball brand the sport. It was also great to see Network campaign – the first in the history of Ten integrating our athletes across other the sport. The new campaign will be programming, including popular, prime implemented in 2010 and will touch time and variety TV shows such as on everything netball; from San Remo Good News Week and other sports, NetSetGO! through to the Diamonds, such as golf. inviting everyone to ‘Share our Passion’. TV audiences and the crowd at the final Holden Netball Test Series game in Brisbane were delighted to get a sneak peek at Diamond Girl, who will be comprehensively launched in 2010 as an aspirational figure for young netballers across Australia, one who will inspire them to become a ‘Diamond’.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 37 Commercial Operations

38 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Licensing Research Netball Australia also launched a Velocity Brand Management (VMB) Netball Australia continues to undertake partnership with the National Breast continued to manage Netball Australia’s research to assist our future planning and Cancer Foundation (NBCF) in 2009. licensing program throughout 2009 and development. In 2009 a commercial review The Sydney leg of the Holden Netball will do so until 2012 following a three year of the sport was undertaken by Gemba Test Series turned pink in support. extension of their contract. Highlights of and recommendations from the report Beyond Blue and NBCF were involved the licensing program in 2009 include will be integrated into both short and as the charity partners for the inaugural the development of a children’s range for long term commercial strategy. A major ANZ Championship’s Festival of the Stars Target and a new sports bra range with research project was undertaken around celebrity game in Sydney, which was Triumph for both Netball Australia and the the brand of Netball which has shaped the televised on Channel 10. Australian Netball Diamonds. development of our brand strategy. Netball Australia will continue to work The Netball Australia licensing program Research focus groups were used in with our partners in 2010 to assist in now includes the following brands over the key markets to develop the ‘future’ look raising awareness of some of the serious categories of replica and leisure clothing, for children’s netball uniforms and the health issues that women face. books, personalized ‘hero’ products, resulting information was used to develop equipment, stats counters and : the Target netball range, in partnership Communications with Global Leisure. • Netball Australia MyNetball was piloted and then launched • Netball Netball Australia will continue to work with in September with a mass mail out to all various research partners to support the registered members. An online, members- • Australian Netball Diamonds ongoing research needs of the organisation only portal, MyNetball provides access • Diamond Girl with a focus on brand, new product to a range of benefits and opportunities. • NetSetGO! development and consumer research. Part of the launch promotion was a competition where members who logged In 2010 the Commercial Unit will seek to on to the system were in the running to develop www.mynetballshop.asn.au Health Partnerships win a new Holden Cruze. to support retail of licensed product and Netball’s partnership with Beyond Blue; extend the product range across all the national depression initiative entered The NA and NetSetGO! websites continue licensed brands. its second year with a range of netball to be the organisation’s most valuable specific material developed that featured communication tools and upgrades and Diamonds vice captain Natalie von improvements continued in 2009, along Bertouch. The concept of ‘Blue Month’ with the development of a new San Remo in June was also well supported by a NetSetGO! website. number of netball associations across Australia and was capped off with the GameON!, Netball’s Australia’s ‘Blue’ themed Test in Melbourne as part eNewsletter, was expanded from bi- of the Holden Netball Test Series. monthly to monthly in 2009 and continues to attract new subscribers, now boasting more than 50,000 readers. In another first for netball, NA worked with New Idea to produce a Guide to Netball that was distributed in magazines to coincide with the launch of the 2009 ANZ Championship season. In keeping with times, Netball Australia employed the use of social media networks such as Twitter, My Space and Netball Network to support our overall objectives and continue to promote the sport.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 39 Event Operations

International Series Network Ten’s broadcast of the series, The 2009 Holden Netball Test Series including the live broadcast of the two against the World Selection team and New Zealand fixtures in Sydney and New Zealand proved a fantastic showcase Brisbane, showcased the spectacle for the excitement and rivalry and charged atmosphere of international of international netball. netball and the Brisbane event in particular achieved excellent ratings. Three of the four Test venues. Tickets for the Brisbane event sold out within two The Diamonds continued on to New weeks of going on sale and Hisense arena Zealand for the New World International also sold out well in advance; the first time Test Series where they sealed the best of a mid-week Test match, in a non-school five series with a win in Invercargill. The holiday period, three of the four venues has Silver Ferns honoured legendary shooter th sold out in the competitive Irene Van Dyke’s 100 Test cap when they Melbourne market. defeated the Diamonds in Auckland in the final match of the series. The concept of the World Selection Team was well received by media, broadcast, spectators and the players. The Diamonds’ defeat at the hands of the new outfit proved that the concept is capable of providing a genuine, challenging, high performance competition environment for the Diamonds.

Attendance figures: Test 1 ETSA Park, Adelaide 2.946 Test 2 Acer Arena, Sydney 11,313 Test 3 Hisense Arena, Melbourne 9,497 Test 4 BCEC, Brisbane 3,079 Total 2009 attendances 26,835

40 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia ANZ Championship Tagged ‘The Hottest Game in Town’ in The new initiatives of Rivalry Round and 2009, the ANZ Championship experienced Festival of Stars were highly successful. strong growth across a range of The Festival of the Stars game, featuring measures, including match attendances, teams of celebrities and ex-players lead television audiences, website visitation by Channel Ten commentators Liz Ellis and general profi le for the sport. and Luke Darcy, enjoyed a television The fi rst year of the partnership with audience of 345,164 viewers. free to air broadcaster Channel Ten The standard of the competition was proved highly successful, with an average extremely high and the battle for a of 229,000 viewers per game. The Grand spot in the fi nal four continued until Final TV audience peaked at 354,329 the fi nal game of the fi nal round, with viewers and the cumulative audience two Australian and two New Zealand across both countries was over 11 million. eventually winning the right to play Champion Data became the offi cial in fi nals. statistics provider for ANZ Championship, The Melbourne Vixens and Adelaide bringing the technological know-how Thunderbirds were two new Grand that will result in further innovations for Finalists, the Vixens going on to thrill the game, such as the availability of a capacity crowd at home venue live scoring on the ANZ Championship Hisense Arena with their fi rst ANZ website that was introduced in 2009. Championship victory.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 41 Event Operations

Australian Netball League The second year of the New Idea Australian Netball Leave continued to provide an important pathway for the development and identification of elite players, coaches and officials. Nine 2009 ANL players were offered positions at the AIS and 17 players have been named in 2010 ANZ Championship teams. The competition had a new look in 2009, with Singapore fielding a team. Featuring 200 players, 22 coaches and 35 umpires, the ANL is a true showcase of the future of the sport. Finals matches were played in Brisbane from September 12 – 13, with the Grand Final staged as a curtain raiser to the Australian Diamonds v. Silver Ferns Test match. Victorian Fury defeated the Australian Institute of Sport 46 – 32, successfully defending their 2008 title. Fury’s Kathleen Knott was named the Most Valuable Player for the competition.

42 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia National Netball Championships The 2009 National Netball Championships were hosted by Netball ACT at the Subway ACT Netball Centre and again brought together all three age groups in a combined event. All states and territories fielded teams in the 17/U and 19/U category, while the 21/U competition featured all but the Northern Territory. Grand Final results 17/U: (23) def. Victoria (21) 19/U: (39) def. Queensland (30) 21/U: New South Wales (43) def. Victoria (41)

In 2010 the 17/U and 19/U will be held at ETSA Park in Adelaide from 7 – 12 April while the 21/U competition will be in Brisbane from 29 September – 4 October.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 43 Event Operations

Australian Netball Awards The 2009 Australian Netball Awards dinner was a glamorous affair, hosted by Annie Sargeant and held at Melbourne’s Zinc, under Federation Square on the banks of the Yarra River. Netball Australia’s photographer David Callow, and AFL Films’ Andrew Janson provided some extremely enjoyable video highlights packages that took the presentation of the event to a new level. The netball family honoured the newest inductees into the Australian Netball Hall of Fame and toasted Liz Ellis Diamond winner Julie Corletto.

L-R Caitlin Bassett, Shannon Eagland, Sophie Croft, Amy Steel

44 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 45 Umpire Profile Josh

where I received invaluable feedback. Through their coaching Bowring I was challenged to be a more justifi ed decision maker and a more effective communicator with the players particularly during training drills. The scholarship was certainly was a turning point in my umpiring career. How did you fi rst become involved in umpiring? Ever since I can remember, I have been constantly dragged to What was the most memorable moment of umpiring games of netball with my mum and sister, rain, hail or shine. On at the World Youth Championships in the Cook Islands? one particular game, an umpire didn’t show. After watching the To have been given the opportunity to umpire so many different game for so long, I thought I knew the rules and took the whistle styles of play from all across the world at the World Youth to give it a go. I enjoyed the experience, and my passion for Championship was fantastic. It was such an exciting and eye- umpiring grew from there. opening adventure. From the high fl ying and physical Caribbean teams, to the unpredictable play of the African nations, I was How did the ASC scholarship program help you progress constantly learning and my technique as an umpire was always to where you are today? pushed to its limit. But this is what ultimately made the event so The ASC scholarship really added an extra element to my great, and I am very grateful for the experience. offi ciating. The program involved services from a psychologist, nutritionist and recovery specialist, in addition to facilitating What is the most challenging aspect of your role? many seminars with high performing athletes, coaches and Umpiring is all about embracing the challenges you face. umpires from all different codes of sport. This has made me Whether it be fi tness, learning new skills, or asking yourself the more aware of the key elements that comprise offi ciating tough questions and learning from your errors. It’s all about as a whole. It has also made my general preparation and taking on board the things that are going to make you a stronger management far more effective, particularly through my eating and more effi cient umpire. There is always something to work programs and recovery strategies, which benefi t my umpiring. on, some aspect you can improve on, and for me it’s the reason The scholarship also comprised of umpiring sessions with why I love what I do and motivates me to be the best I can be. Chris Burton and Maureen Boyle at an AIS Development Camp

What is the most rewarding aspect of your role? There are so many rewarding aspects as an umpire – the friendships you make and people you meet; the satisfaction you get from being out there for the players and to ensure that you allow them to play to the best of their abilities and as skillfully as they can, in accordance to the rules of our game. Personally it is great to have an increased fi tness level. I fi nd the constant challenges you face makes umpiring continually interesting and a journey of opportunity, experience and learning.

46 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Corporate Services

NMAS National Insurance Program Human Resources The National Membership Administration The Netball Australia Risk Protection Netball Australia is responsible for the System (NMAS) is a comprehensive Program arranged by JLT Sport continues recruitment and development of its information management system for to operate for the benefit of members. national head office staff. The Human netball that includes a website, a database, In 2009 Netball Australia completed the Resources policy is based on our core a competition module, mynetball and development of a National Significant Risk values – Passion, Teamwork, Integrity, other tools for the benefit of members. Register that can assist netball to manage Excellence and Accountability. During Member Organisations (MOs) have been high level national strategic risks in 2009 Netball Australia had a very low staff working together to register all affiliates partnership with Member Organisations. turnover and this is an indication of the and individual members in each State and Netball Australia will continue to committed and passionate team of people Territory. During 2009 99.5% of all active work with Member Organisations to employed by the organisation. Netball members were entered onto the system ensure insurance and risk protection Australia continues to utilise the skills of and more than 1.1 million people arrangements are provided at the highest volunteers and contractors to assist in the are listed on the system. level of service in a cost effective way. delivery of a wide range of organisational outcomes. Volunteers continue to be Future plans include an email system for critical to the programs and events Netball Associations, individual members being Australia is involved in. able to sign up online and other services that enhance the work of netball volunteers and employees across Australia. National Office Netball Australia’s National Office is based in the heart of Melbourne at Level 2,140 King St. During 2009 Netball Australia grew its office set up including the accommodating of the ANZ Championship staff.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 47 Awards

2009 Australian The Awards dinner also celebrated the Hall of Fame Netball Awards year’s many outstanding individual and Six new members were inducted into the Netball’s highest individual honour, the team achievements. Australian Netball Hall of Fame in 2009. Liz Ellis Diamond, was awarded to Julie Lorraine Lea Linen Umpire of the Year Announced at the Australian Netball Corletto at the Australian Netball Awards in Sharon Kelly Awards, the illustrious group contains Melbourne on November 28. Australian Sports Commission some of the netball’s most respected and One of the brightest lights of Australian Coach of the Year celebrated champions. netball, Corletto showed her match winning Julie Hoornweg, Melbourne Vixens Former legendary players and Australian qualities in the Holden Netball Test Series captains, Jill McIntosh, Michelle den and the Diamonds tour to New Zealand. Tanya Denver Media Award Rebecca Williams, Herald-Sun Dekker OAM and Gaye Teede were She was also a vital member of the Vixens inducted as Athlete Members while championship team in 2009. New Idea Australian Netball League Gweneth Benzie AM, Anne Clark BEM(C) Unfortunately a knee injury ended Player of the Year and Lorna McConchie were inducted as Corletto’s 2009 Diamond season Kathleen Knott, Victorian Fury General Members. prematurely but her amazing athletic ANPA 21/U Player of the Year Netball Australia CEO Kate Palmer said ability, speed and power off the mark, Andrea Gilmore that each of the inductees had helped and excellent one-on-one defence skills build netball’s unique culture and made New Idea Australia’s will ensure she is a key element in the it a dominant feature in Australia’s Favourite Diamond Diamonds tilt at Commonwealth Games sporting psyche. gold in 2010. Susan Pratley The Liz Ellis Diamond recognises the Australian ANZ Championship player who receives the most votes Player of the Year for outstanding achievement in both Natalie von Bertouch, Adelaide the international arena and the ANZ Thunderbirds Championship each year. Holden Australian International The award is named after former Australian Player of the Year captain and most capped Australian player Renae Hallinan of all time, Liz Ellis, who was on hand in Liz Ellis Diamond November to present Corletto with her Julie Corletto prize of a $5000 cheque and superb one carat diamond.

48 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Awards

Diamonds coach Norma Plummer Juile Corletto and Liz Ellis Hall of Fame inductees Michelle den Dekker and Renae Hallinan (OAM), Gweneth Benzie (AM) and Gaye Teede

The Australian Netball Hall of Fame was Individual Milestones International Service Award established in 2008. Its members are: and Retirements Congratulations to Maureen Boyle on Revered Australian shooter and Diamonds receiving the International Service Award. Athlete members captain Sharelle McMahon celebrated Marg Caldow BEM her 100th Test cap on 13 September at Vale Jean Cowan MBE the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Throughout the Holden Netball Test Anne Sargeant OAM Centre against the Silver Ferns. Only two Series and at the Australian Netball other Australian players have a higher Vicki Wilson OAM Awards, players, officials and spectators number of Test caps – Vicki Wilson (104) remembered all those who had lost lives Jill McIntosh and Liz Ellis (122). and property in the devastating Victorian Michelle den Dekker OAM bushfires and Queensland floods of 2009. Gaye Teede International Debuts The Netball family was saddened over Renae Hallinan was the only player to the past 12 months by the passing of Dot General Members make her debut for the Diamonds in Quarry, Michele Buck, Margaret Morris and Joyce Brown OAM 2009, playing at ACER Arena in Sydney Flo Starcevich, all of whom contributed on 6 September against the Silver Ferns. Eunice Gill MBE enormously to our sport. She went on to be named the Holden Denise Hyland AM International Player of the Year in a stellar Gweneth Benzie AM debut season. While it did not count as a Anne Clark BEM Test cap, Johannah Curran had her first Lorna McConchie game in the green and gold in Manchester when the Diamonds competed in the Cooperative World Netball Series (FAST NET) from 9 – 11 October and Caitlin Thwaites stepped out as a Diamond against the World Selection Team in Adelaide on 2 September.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 49 Sponsors and Partners

The outstanding support of our sponsors and partners builds the financial foundation that underpins the success of netball in Australia. We acknowledge and thank every one of them for their contribution.

50 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia Sponsors Principal Partner Principal partner of Netball Australia the Australian government, through the Australian Sports Commission, provides substantial fi nancial resources, as well as investment of its intellectual and human resources into netball. This support allows Netball Australia to critically review our high performance program, add to the level of research undertaken, provide extra scholarships to coaches and offi cials, and improve our monitoring and reporting functions as a national sporting organisation. Netball Australia appreciates the Australian Sports Commission’s recognition of the cultural signifi cance as well as the sporting signifi cance of our sport.

and Partners Gold Sponsors

Offi cial Car of Netball Australia & the Australian Netball Diamonds Holden is the naming rights sponsor of the Holden Netball Test Series and offi cial partner of San Remo NetSetGO! Program. GM Holden generously supplies the Australian Netball Diamonds team members with a Holden Cruze for one year.

Offi cial Pasta of Netball Australia San Remo supports the Australian Netball Diamonds and is naming rights sponsor of the national netball junior development program, San Remo NetSetGO! San Remo’s message of a healthy balanced diet will be delivered nationally to all. San Remo ambassador Julie Corletto delivers a positive message about netball and pasta far and wide.

Silver Sponsors

Offi cial Sponsor of Netball Australia Lorraine Lea Linen is a support partner of the national junior development program San Remo NetSetGO! and sponsors national umpire program.

Offi cial media partner for Netball Australia New Idea ensures netball enthusiasts are informed, entertained and enlightened about netball and the Australian Netball Diamonds.

Offi cial Apparel Sponsor for Netball Australia Kukri outfi ts the Australian Netball Diamonds and the Australian U21 team with uniforms and training apparel. AUSTRALIA

Offi cial sponsor of San Remo NetSetGO! Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, Australia is a support partner of the national netball junior development program - San Remo NetSetGO!

Bronze Sponsors

Offi cial Ball Sponsor Gilbert supply offi cial match and training balls for the Australian Netball Diamonds and all events conducted by Netball Australia.

Offi cial Footwear Sponsor ASICS supply the right footwear for the Australian Netball Diamonds and the Australian 21/U Netball team.

Offi cial Broadcaster

Offi cial broadcast partner Channel 10 ensures the Holden Netball Test Series is beamed across Australia on Channel 10 and HD One.

Offi cial Suppliers

Offi cial pen supplier to Netball Australia Artline supports every autograph session held by the Australian Netball Diamonds.

Offi cial supplier of compression and therapeutic wear to Netball Australia SKINS assist the Australian Diamonds to train harder, perform longer and recover faster.

In 2009 Elastoplast (a Beiersdorf brand) was the strapping and tape that supported the Australian Netball Diamonds and the Australian 21/U team.

2009 Annual Report Netball Australia 51 Sponsors and Partners

Official Suppliers

Official Bank of Netball Australia, ANZ is the major naming rights sponsor of the Trans Tasman competition the ANZ Championship

High Performance Partners

Official training centre of the Australian Netball Diamonds and the Australian 21/U team, the Australian Institute of Sport provides world class facilities and support to all our athletes and support staff.

SISSAS network provides the daily training environment for Diamonds and 21/U squad members.

Australian Netball Diamonds supporter the Australian Commonwealth Games Association (ACGA) supports the team in its preparation for the games in Dehli in 2010, and supports the development of underage athletes.

Health Partners

Health Partner of Netball Australia beyondblue works with Netball Australia to create awareness about depression and support resources available to netball’s core participants – women and young girls.

Health Partner of Netball Australia the National Breast Cancer Foundation works with Netball Australia to raise awareness of breast cancer and the importance of breast cancer research amongst the netball community.

52 2009 Annual Report Netball Australia

Netball Australia Level 2, 140 King St, Melbourne VIC 3000. PO Box 13285, Law Courts VIC 8010 Tel +61 3 8621 8600 Fax +61 3 9614 4308 [email protected] www.netball.asn.au