Every time a girl steps onto a netball court, she’s doing more than just playing a sport — she’s building confidence, connection and leadership. International Day of the Girl, celebrated globally on 11 October, is about moments like these. It’s a day to recognise the power, potential and voices of girls everywhere — to celebrate who they are today and the change they’re already leading in their communities.
This year’s theme, “The girl I am, the change I lead: Girls on the frontlines of crisis,” highlights the challenges girls continue to face across the world, and the importance of empowering them to be part of the solution.
For Netball NSW Executive General Manager of Communities, Trish Crews, that message strikes close to home.
“As a mum of two daughters and someone who has worked in sport for a long time, I know firsthand how important it is for girls to grow up believing they have strength, that they can be leaders, and that they have a place in sport — both on and off the court,” Crews said.
“When I was a girl, I never imagined I could have a career in sport. It’s so powerful to see that change happening for the next generation.”
While netball remains one of the most popular sports for girls and women in Australia, Crews says there are still barriers that can prevent girls from joining or staying involved.
“We know some girls step away from sport because they don’t feel confident in themselves, or the environment isn’t for them,” Crews said.
“That’s why we’re working closely with clubs and associations to understand those barriers and make sure that when girls come to netball, they’re met with a truly welcoming and inclusive environment where they feel they belong.”
Other barriers include uniform comfort and cost.
“Our inclusive uniform policy is a really important step forward — giving girls choice helps them feel confident and comfortable,” said Crews.
“We’re also working to reduce cost barriers, offering opportunities to play through school programs at no cost, and introducing flexible three-month membership options so associations can run shorter, more affordable competitions.”
Netball NSW has also launched a Youth Advisory Group, ensuring young people have a seat at the table.
“We’re not just talking about empowering girls — we’re engaging them in shaping the change. Listening to their ideas is vital,” Crews said.
One of Netball NSW’s most innovative tools for supporting girls is EmpowerPlay, a resource designed to help clubs build confidence, connection and wellbeing among young players.
Developed by three mums — including Crews herself — EmpowerPlay consists of four workshops across modules themed around Confidence, Resilience, Kindness and Empowerment.
Each session includes a presenter manual, slides, and workbooks for both players and coaches. Central to the program is a fun personality strengths activity, helping participants understand who they are, how their teammates differ, and how those differences make teams stronger.
“It’s about helping girls recognise their natural strengths — whether they’re outgoing like an Otter or dependable like a Golden Retriever — and learning how each personality brings something valuable to the team,” Crews said.
“When girls understand and celebrate their differences, it builds empathy, teamwork and connection — all the things that keep them engaged in sport.”
The impact has been profound.
“We’ve seen girls who were on the verge of walking away from netball stay because of EmpowerPlay,” Crews shared. “They start to understand themselves, their friends, and the importance of kindness and belonging. You can literally see the lightbulb moments.”
For Netball NSW, International Day of the Girl is about taking action to ensure every girl has the potential to be strong, to lead, and to create change — not just as team captains or elite athletes, but in everyday ways.
“When girls feel supported, confident and connected, they don’t just become better players — they become the kind of leaders who strengthen communities.”
