As part of National Youth Week, stories of young people stepping into leadership roles are being celebrated across the state and at Netball NSW, the Tamworth Netball Association’s Youth Advisory Group is already showing what meaningful youth involvement looks like in practice.
Formed earlier this season, the group hasn’t wasted any time getting involved in key initiatives particularly in the space of sponsorship and season launch planning.
Working alongside the association’s sponsorship coordinator, members are contributing ideas to help shape a more engaging and inclusive start to the season, with a strong focus on bringing the netball community together and enhancing the overall experience.
At the same time, the group has already begun influencing conversations around umpire development, an area they identified themselves.
“What’s been really exciting is that they’re bringing things up themselves,” Vice President Louise Lye said. “The interest in umpiring development wasn’t even on our agenda, that’s exactly what you want from a group like this.”
With a mix of players, representative athletes, coaches, and newly accredited umpires involved, the group is uniquely positioned to understand the challenges facing younger officials.
Early discussions have centred on how to better support beginner umpires and create more positive, confidence-building environments, an important step in strengthening the future of the game.
These practical contributions have been backed by a strong and energetic start as a group.
“We all left that first meeting on a high, it was brilliant,” Lye said. “They’re so motivated, excited, and really open with their opinions and ideas.”
Beyond specific projects, the Youth Advisory Group is also developing valuable leadership skills. Members have elected their own leadership roles and will begin running structured meetings, building experience in governance, communication, and decision-making.
“It’s more than just netball,” Lye said. “Giving them the chance to run meetings and take ownership is about building skills they’ll carry into the workplace and beyond.”
As National Youth Week continues, Tamworth’s approach highlights the impact of giving young people real responsibility from the outset.
By embedding youth voices into key areas like sponsorship, events, and officiating pathways, the Youth Advisory Group is not just preparing for the future of netball, they’re actively shaping it now.
