Netball NSW is proud to return to the 2025 Marie Little Shield, netball’s premier national competition for women with an intellectual disability, as we look to defend our national title. This year’s tournament will once again take place at Brisbane’s Nissan Arena from Friday 5 to Sunday 7 September.
The Marie Little Shield holds special significance in the netball community. Named after the late Marie Little OAM, a passionate advocate and administrator who dedicated her life to creating opportunities for athletes with an intellectual disability – the competition has been a national platform for inclusion and excellence since 2013.
Over the past decade, the Marie Little Shield has created meaningful opportunities for athletes to represent their state or territory at the highest level, and Netball NSW is proud to be part of that legacy.
Netball Australia CEO Stacey West said the tournament is a cornerstone event on the calendar that reflects netball’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and accessibility.
“Last year’s Marie Little Shield was unforgettable, seeing every state and territory represented for the first time, including the debut of Tasmania, was incredibly moving,” West said.
“Marie Little Shield continues to grow each year, reinforcing the importance of pathways for all-abilities athletes and promoting equality and diversity across the netball landscape.
“The energy, the pride, the connection among athletes, families, and supporters is a reminder of the power of truly inclusive sport.”
Following the landmark 2024 tournament that saw representation from every state and territory, including Tasmania for the first time. The momentum continues in 2025, with all eight teams returning to contest the title in a round-robin format that will culminate in a Grand Final where one team will be crowned national champions.
More information on the NSW team and their journey to the Marie Little Shield will be shared in the coming weeks.
