Netball numbers jump 56pc

Children compete on a Saturday morning at the Hawke's Bay Regional Sports Park netball courts in Hastings. Photo / Paul Taylor

Move over rugby, the Hawke's Bay's ANZ Future Ferns Programme has grown to become the largest of its kind in New Zealand.

The number of people playing netball has grown by about 56 per cent in just one season.

Hawke's Bay Netball operations manager Tina Arlidge said local sponsorship partner Unison had really helped lift the programme.

"Unison came on board last year to further develop netball in our region by ensuring a holistic programme that would appeal to, and encourage, the junior levels," Ms Arlidge said.

"Our first year was very successful. It's great to see the programme thriving."

"It's a great achievement to already have the largest participation rate of any junior netball programme in New Zealand."

It was an achievement that was recognised at the Hawke's Bay Sports Awards at the weekend with Hawke's Bay Netball being named IMS Payroll RSO/Club Operation of the Year - for the second consecutive year.

Ms Arlidge credits the amalgamations of the netball associations to the growth of the game and the addition of the Future Ferns initiative, which targets primary and intermediate schools.

"ANZ Future Ferns introduces netball to young children, with the aim of developing fundamental movement and ball skills," Ms Arlidge said.

She says promotion of netball in schools has been a major component of the sport's growth.

"It's been great to get Wairoa on board as part of our local competition, and to have CHB, Napier and Hastings under the same umbrella," she said.

The mass exodus of senior players was a key factor in the lack of player participation in the senior grades.

"Although a lot of players leave after high school, some are starting to come back, so we are looking to develop a senior programme."

While the future of the game in the Bay looked promising, Ms Arlidge said she would be content with an exceptional experience for players across all boards.

Hawke's Bay netballer Shelby Thomson said a lot of girls were taking up netball because they are becoming more aware of the importance of regular exercise.

"I love netball because it keeps me active. Playing indoor and outdoor netball helps me keep fit," Ms Thomson said.

The senior 3 Clive Ferns team member said the social aspect had helped fuel her love for the game.

"I get to play with friends and family. I've made lifelong friends through netball."

Ms Thomson also credits the Hawke's Bay Sports Park for the recent surge in netball's popularity.

"The facilities are good. There's a fair bit of space between courts, spectators and umpires."

Having been a major sponsor of junior rugby for five years, Unison decided to offer similar support to netball in the region.

Unison group chief executive Ken Sutherland said the results had already proven it to be a worthwhile decision.

"Physically active lifestyles contribute to a healthier population of children in our region, and we are therefore looking forward to another great season encouraging this."