In support of the Australian Government’s Team Up initiative, the program will help to build capacity of participants and organisations through leadership activities, training, and coaching-accreditation courses.
Players, coaches and officials from Tongan communities will participate in practical and theoretical sessions covering umpiring, coaching, nutrition, First Aid, CPR and strength and conditioning.
The five-day netball program will be run out of Davina House Ma’Ufanga, Nuku’Alofa, with specialists and instructors virtually delivering from Australia.
Netball Australia CEO Kelly Ryan was delighted to partner with the Australian Defence Force to use the power of sport to bring people together.
“Our game of netball is an inclusive one, and I believe this partnership will only strengthen our connection and commitment to developing the game in the Pacific, whilst empowering women and girls,” Ryan said.
“The program will directly address the need for more skilled coaches and support staff in the region.
“An increase in trained coaches will create role models and give Tongan children the best chance to be exposed to the game and experience the many social and health benefits.
“There is a natural alignment between Netball Australia and Australian Defence Force in the areas of leadership, diversity and gender equality.
“We’re incredibly proud of the important work of the men and women of the ADF and look forward to working together to achieve positive outcomes for Tongan communities.”
Director General of the Australian Defence Force Sports Cell, Brigadier Phil Winter also expressed his thanks to Netball Australia for partnering with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) on the upcoming Pacific ‘virtual’ sports program with His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF) of Tonga.
“The ADF has run two previous ‘virtual’ sports programs during COVID involving Rugby League, conducted in Fiji and PNG, and now having Netball Australia partner with our ADF Rugby League Association, will add a blended model of sports participation for Tongan forces and communities through the two sports codes, especially promoting female participation,” Brigadier Winter said.
“Sport provides a ‘universal language’ and the virtual program for Tonga is designed to teach leadership, gender equality, respect, nutrition and healthy living.
“The ‘virtual’ sports programme also provides an opportunity to demonstrate the enduring ADF partnership with HMAF of Tonga and reinforce shared values through sport.”
