The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association launched its Game Changers Netball Grassroots Development Programme on Saturday at the Fancy Hardcourt.
The launch attracted male and female athletes aged 4 to 14, as well as administrators and other community members.
During the opening session, the young athletes were introduced to basic netball skills and teamwork.
Administrators participated in an educational session on the rules of netball, facilitated by Chair of the SVGNA Umpires and Technical Officials Committee and international umpire awardee, Moeth Gaymes.
The programme will also include sessions on safeguarding and safe sport, reinforcing everyone’s responsibility to create safe, respectful and supportive sporting environments for children and all other participants.
Among those present at the launch were Parliamentary Representative for North Windward, Shevern John; Vice President of the SVG Olympic Committee and Chair of the SVGOC Safeguarding/Safe Sport Commission, Shimano Bailey; General Secretary of the SVG Olympic Committee, Keith Joseph; and members of the SVGNA Executive.
The programme was made possible through the support of the Commonwealth Games Committee, facilitated through the SVG Olympic Committee.
It will continue until December 2026, with Saturday sessions running from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Fancy and Chilli Hardcourts.
Programme schedule
Fancy Hardcourt — Aug. 15 to Sept. 12 & Dec. 5-19
Chilli Hardcourt, Georgetown — Sept. 19 to Oct. 10 & Oct. 31 to Nov. 28
The initiative focuses on the development of athletes, coaches, umpires and administrators, while promoting teamwork, discipline, leadership, safeguarding, Safe Sport and a greater understanding of the game.
The SVGNA said it would continue this grassroots development work in conjunction with community groups, creating greater opportunities for young people and strengthening the capacity of those involved in the administration and development of netball throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines.