By Carole Levy
The forward-thinking committee of Melton Netball Association is trialling a Rock-Up mixed competition, with the aim of attracting new players who might not yet be ready to commit to the regular competition.
The association’s treasurer, Janet Govett – a former player and high-level coach herself – explains how Rock-Up works:
“Rock-Up, which runs for a 10-week period at this stage, allows players at least 14 years old to register online, either as a team or individual. Only three males can play on a team, while individual registrations are placed by the ‘system’ into a team. Then they just ‘rock up’ to play.
“The advantages of this approach is that it gives newbies a chance to see if they want to join our regular comp. Registration fees are much cheaper, and uniform requirements are more relaxed,” Janet says.
“It’s great for getting mum and dad and the kids playing in a team together, or just a gang of teens or young mums wanting a healthy outlet.”
Janet says Melton Netball Association also provides pathways for those interested in becoming an umpire.
“We run courses for umpires to move up in the ranks where they can find themselves umpiring games for the Victorian or Australian Netball leagues.
“As an umpire tester, I and another member get called on to test aspiring umpires from Melton and Bacchus Marsh – it’s very rewarding to see them succeed.”
Netball, an ever-popular sport for girls and more and more boys, caters for kids as young as six, who play in the Net-Set-Go program.
“We run this program, which goes for just 30 minutes, for kids aged six to 10. It teaches them about the rules, fair play and tactics so they’re ready to step up into the regular competition.
“It’s wonderful to watch them learn and switch on to the game – it’s probably my favourite part of netball now.”
Affiliated with Netball Victoria, the Melton association has a committee of long-serving members and younger people who value seeing netball thrive in their town.
They don’t stand still – right now they’re hoping to see an Under-11 comp form.
Melton Netball Association gathers at 5pm on Tuesdays at Melton Indoor Recreation Centre on Coburns Road. Inquiries: 0434 810 532, email meltonnetball@hotmail.com or visit meltonna.vic.netball.com.au
