Netball SA has announced key changes for The Hospital Research Foundation Group Premier League, as the organisation takes positive steps to strengthen and elevate the competition in 2023 and beyond.
A review of the Premier League - the state’s top netball competition - produced nine key recommendations, which have all been endorsed by the Netball SA Board.
The recommendations focus on increasing the competitiveness and growth of the League into the future. Key points include a review of the current points system, the introduction of zoning for development purposes, and a reduction in squad sizes.
The review was overseen by an independent committee, formed in January 2022, with consultants appointed to manage the stakeholder consultancy process.
The process occurred through a range of methods, including interviews with key stakeholders, forums, and surveys, including one for the wider Netball SA community.
Netball SA CEO Bronwyn Klei said the review was the crucial first step in the organisation’s bid to bolster South Australia’s premier netball competition.
“This process is an evolution not a revolution, with the elevation of the League at the heart of all nine recommendations,” Ms Klei said.
“We’re now working with all stakeholders to identify the best ways to implement these improvements, with a number set to be in place by the start of next season.
“A strong focus was made on the equalisation of talent across the League to increase the competitiveness of our competition.
“Our League hosts the best netballers in South Australia, and it is paramount that we protect and strengthen the quality of our League – not only for players, but for coaches, and spectators alike.
“Our eight Premier League clubs have been central to this process, and we will continue to work with them as we look at the best approach to introducing each step.”
The change process will be continually monitored, with Netball SA working with the Premier League clubs and other stakeholders to determine the delivery.
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