The Marie Little Shield is a national netball competition for female athletes with an intellectual disability, giving players the opportunity to proudly represent their state on the national stage. Established in 2013, the tournament honours Marie Little OAM, a netballer who dedicated her life to creating opportunities for athletes with an intellectual disability.
Each year, Netball NSW selects a representative team and training partners to compete at the tournament. The program runs from May to June, with athletes training fortnightly to develop their skills, teamwork, and match play. Specialised coaches and support staff are also appointed to provide guidance both on and off the court, ensuring every athlete can get the most out of the experience.
Netball NSW has a proud history in the competition, winning five of the past six national titles, and continues to focus on building strong, supportive team environments. The program is designed not only to develop players’ skills, but also to foster confidence, friendships, and personal growth—while encouraging athletes to embrace the challenge and enjoy every moment.