Player movement and off-season shake-ups have laid the groundwork for a new Newcastle netball season, with the Greater Bank Series kicking off recently.
Now in its 5th season, the 2024 series introduces Norths Netball Club to the competition following the departure of the University of Newcastle, with signings that Newcastle Netball Association (NNA) President Cheryl Hernando said are sure to challenge the recent dominance of West Leagues Netball Club.
“Norths have made some exciting signings like Premier League goal shooter Imogen McCulloch and NSW u17s representative Ellie Stacey, so I can’t wait to see what they put out on court,” Cheryl said.
“I don’t think anything is a given in this competition, which is what makes it so thrilling.”
With each club fielding a team in the Championship, Opens and Under 23s divisions, the competition also provides a top-level pathway experience for junior talent, which Imogen said has been wonderful for player development.
“That top division is something many of our young players aspire to, but it can be a big step up so the staged pathway the Greater Bank Series provides has been fantastic for building their skills and confidence,” Imogen said.
“As an experienced player it’s awesome watching those younger ones learn and grow in the pathway, then get out on court and do a fantastic job.”
Meanwhile, Greater Bank has again signed on as the major sponsor extending its Tri Series partnership to five years and NNA support to over 30.
“Greater Bank’s support of Newcastle Netball Association now spans more than three decades, with this year’s naming rights sponsorship playing a pivotal role in player and pathway development,” Cheryl continued.
“We are grateful to have Greater Bank back on board as the major sponsor of this competition.”
Senior Community Engagement Manager at Greater Bank, Ingrid Kaczor said that Greater Bank was thrilled to keep backing netball.
“We love our netball at Greater Bank, which is why we also support almost two dozen grassroots, social and pathway competitions,” Ingrid said.
“Newcastle Netball Association is our longest running community partnership, and it’s fantastic to see the Greater Bank Series reach new heights with what is sure to be another thrilling season.”
The Greater Bank Series commenced on 6 April.
IMAGE | Greater Bank Series Netball teams.
