Has elite men’s netball taken a giant leap in it’s development? Should elite men’s netball now be viewed as being a truly relevant part of the Australian netball scene?
Well ask any of the 4,000 spectators that have turned out for the first four days of competition of the Australian Men’s & Mixed Netball Championships, and you will get a resounding YES. The event kicked off on Sunday with a wonderful opening ceremony, before the days feature match, a replay of the 2015 open men’s grand final, Victoria v Queensland, where the Vics avenged last years defeat, knocking off the Queenslanders 68-64.
Netball fans not familiar with the men’s game were astounded at the speed and agility of 
the players. Kim (Blackburn) said “I’ve never seen netball at that skill level before. The speed both by foot and by mind was easily the best I’ve seen”. Rebecca (Nunawading) said her son was thrilled to have witnessed the game, “I can’t believe how agile that 7’2 shooter was, and the Victorian keeper was matching him in the air, and at times getting his hand above the ring. It’s the best netball I’ve ever seen”.
The championships culminate on Saturday with Grand Finals for all seven divisions:
- 9.30am 23 & Under Men Men’s Reserve
- 11.30am Open Mixed 20 & Under Men
- 1.30pm Open Men
- 3.30pm 17 & Under Boys Mixed Reserve
If you love your netball, head to the State Basketball Centre, George Street, Wantirna South, this Saturday. Admission $10 for Adults, $5 for Children (7-14), Under 7 FREE.
Hostilities commence Easter Sunday morning, when 500 participants are expected to land at one of Melbourne’s newest sports centres, to contest the 32nd annual Australian Men’s & Mixed Netball Championships.
Only days remain until the first matches get underway at the 32nd annual Australian Men’s & Mixed Netball Championships.
