A landmark moment for First Nations talent

Alirah was selected as part of the 2023 First Nations Emerging Talent Team by Netball NSW, and in September, she will hit the courts for the inaugural First Nations National Tournament scheduled to be held in Melbourne from 13 - 15 September. As the first-ever national tournament of its kind, it marks a pivotal moment in Australian sport, showcasing the depth of Indigenous talent that exists across the netball landscape.

FDC is the sole sponsor of Team NSW, which represents more than a financial commitment. It’s a reflection of FDC’s dedication to reconciliation and diversity in Australia, aligning with their Reconciliation Action Plan. “As long-term supporters of women’s sport and GIANTS Netball, FDC are excited to assist Netball NSW in participating in the pilot First Nations Tournament,” says FDC Managing Director, Russell Grady. “The impact that such an event will have on encouraging and developing the talents of First Nation’s netballers across the country and contributing to the overall strength of our game, cannot be underestimated.” By supporting this groundbreaking tournament, FDC is proud to help create a more inclusive future for netball and ensure greater opportunities for First Nations athletes.

Paving a pathway for future generations

Another of those athletes is Acacia Elers, a proud Māori and Koori teenager. At just 16, the NSW First Nations Netball Tournament teammate has already made a name for herself in netball. Her trajectory from Hunter Sports High School Netball Academy to the Central Coast Metro one team, where she is also a training partner for the Central Coast Heart 23s Premier League team, underscores the value of strong pathways for First Nations sportspeople. “Being named in the inaugural Netball NSW First Nations youth state team is very special to me as representing my cultures at any level and in any way is extremely important,” she says. “I feel lucky to represent my mob, community and family.”

Umpiring the tournament will be Ryan Ahearne, a proud Wiradjuri man who grew up on Gweagal and Bidjigal lands, with an identity shaped by unbreakable bonds to culture and community. “Stepping into the umpiring space has introduced me to coaching, mentoring and given me a new perspective on the sport,” he says. “I truly love the adrenaline of taking to the court and watching the players give 100%. That makes me want to give 100% too. Being involved in grass roots on a Saturday, through to Metro League, Premier League and Men’s Netball NSW, umpiring has introduced me to the professionalism and high-performance integrity within the sport.”

Netball NSW CEO, Tracey Scott, said the inaugural First Nations National Tournament was a significant milestone for the game and representation of First Nations people. “Netball NSW confirmed our commitment to this new initiative immediately upon it being raised as a possibility by Netball Australia. We know the experience of representing their community and family will be invaluable to all NSW players and coaching staff and we can’t wait to follow their journey both on and off the court. I am sincerely grateful to FDC for their support to enable us to participate and thank them for being an integral part of our team,” says Tracey.

The Inaugural First Nations Netball Tournament is not just a competition, it’s a statement of pride, talent and culture. With the dedication of athletes like Alirah Watton and Acacia Elers, and umpire, Ryan Ahearne, this landmark event is paving the way for a more inclusive future in Australian netball. As Alirah says, “Being a role model is something I pride myself on, to show the younger generations that with belief, hard work, resilience and dedication, it is possible to play at the elite level.”

The Tournament, which is free to attend, will take place at the State Netball Centre in Melbourne from Friday to Sunday, 13-15 September, 2024, featuring under-23 teams from every State and Territory who will compete across three days of competition.

Image credit: Toby Peet