Wales Netball
January 31, 2025
We are delighted to announce that Wales Netball has been nominated for the ‘Youth Voice Champion’ award at the 2024 StreetGames Sport for Development Awards. This nomination is a testament to our commitment to empowering young people and ensuring that their voices shape the future of netball in Wales.
Championing Youth Leadership
At the heart of this nomination are two ground-breaking initiatives: the Forward Futures Collective and Blitz Netball®.
Forward Futures Collective: Shaping the Future
Launched in March 2024, the Forward Futures Collective is a vibrant group of young individuals aged 16 to 25 who play a pivotal role in advising Wales Netball’s staff and Board. Their insights ensure that the sport continues to evolve in a way that reflects the aspirations and needs of young people across Wales. By meeting regularly, these young leaders help drive meaningful change, making netball more inclusive and representative.
Blitz Netball®: Breaking Barriers
In partnership with StreetGames, we introduced Blitz Netball® in July 2024 – an exciting and accessible new format of the game designed with and for young people from low-income communities. Young Advisors from across North Wales drove the development of the initiative from day 1, bringing their energy and innovative ideas in bucket-loads! This informal, fast-paced version of netball can be played anywhere, requiring minimal equipment while maximising enjoyment and engagement. The initiative also provides Activator Workshops, equipping volunteers, youth workers, and coaches with the tools to bring netball to new audiences.
A Recognition of Our Commitment
The ‘Youth Voice Champion’ award honours organisations that actively listen to and uplift young voices, integrating their perspectives into the very fabric of their work. Being recognised in this category highlights the incredible impact of the young advisors and passionate individuals who have helped shape these initiatives.
Looking Ahead with Excitement!
This nomination is not just a milestone – it’s a celebration of the young people who inspire us every day! Their dedication, ideas, and enthusiasm drive our mission forward, and we could not be prouder to see their contributions acknowledged on such a prestigious platform. With winners set to be announced in early February, we are eagerly looking forward to the results. Regardless of the outcome, this recognition reinforces our commitment to ensuring that young people remain at the heart of everything we do.
Stay tuned for updates, and let’s continue working together to make netball bigger, better, and bolder!
For more information on our initiatives, visit:
Forward Futures Collective: Learn more
Blitz Netball®: Find out more
StreetGames Sport for Development Awards 2024: Full details
