Eaton Netball Association focus on inclusivity with funding boost

Almost a year on after an $8000 funding boost, the Eaton Netball Association has opened inclusive programs in a bid grown its participant base and open the sport up to new players.

The association was the recipient of a Woolworths Netball Grant last year, focusing the funds on boosting participation by reducing fees, while encouraging healthy, active lifestyles.

The reduced fees helped players in both their NetSetGo and development programs for the 2025 season to relieve families of the financial burden and encourage new participants

The association also introduced a new social competition to encourage participation from both male and female players who might not have played traditional netball due to the costs or time commitments.

This competition received new bibs to reduce uniform costs.

New equipment also came the way of the NetSetGo program including bibs, bean bags, cones and hula hoops while the development program players enjoyed new fitness equipment, team bags, coaching equipment and a larger gazebo for carnivals.

The grants are open again, with netball clubs and associations across Australia having the chance to win a portion of $100,000 in grants to promote healthier eating habits and increased physical activity among young players.

There is also a $20,000 people’s choice award allocated to the club or association with the most votes.

Former Australian Diamonds player and Woolworths NetSetGo ambassador Catherine Cox said the grants held a special place in her heart as not only a player, but also a parent.

“Coaching my young daughter’s local netball team, I’ve seen firsthand how sport brings kids together, builds confidence, and nurtures a true sense of belonging,” she said.

“It’s about more than just the game, it’s about giving children the chance to grow, thrive, and fall in love with an active, healthy lifestyle.

“By supporting initiatives like this, they are (Woolworths) also helping kids all over the country discover the lifelong benefits of teamwork, movement, and nourishing their bodies with good food.”

Clubs and associations can apply online at the Woolworths Netball Grants website before August 29.