NETBALL SHORTLISTED FOR SPIRIT OF SPORT AWARD

IFNA has been shortlisted for a prestigious SportAccord Spirit of Sport Award. The world governing body of netball was nominated for Netball Safaris, which have introduced netball to thousands of new players in Africa, boosting interest in women’s sport and giving girls the opportunity to play.

SportAccord is the umbrella organisation for world sports governing bodies. The Awards will be presented during the Annual Convention to be held in Quebec City, Canada, from May 20-25, and salute organisations and individuals described as ‘making an exceptional and lasting contribution to using sport as a tool for social change’.

Netball Safaris encourage talented young players and coaches from countries such as the UK to share their skills with netballers in Africa, and they are coupled with sustainable programmes that ensure netball carries on after the safari has left. Linking the safaris with local partner organisations also provides the opportunity to promote women’s health and other important community initiatives.

IFNA President, The Honourable Molly Rhone, OJ, CD said of the nomination: “This is a great honour and a well-deserved recognition of everyone who has worked so hard to make Netball Safaris the success that they are. Promoting and improving netball coaching in Africa generates interest and support for women’s sport in a continent with a wealth of untapped talent. The excitement and enthusiasm on both sides is wonderful. It is a great scheme, and I am delighted that we have been shortlisted.”