HCF has deepened its investment in netball, a sport that has rapidly gained traction across the nation, by introducing a new campaign.
Since its partnership initiation in 2019 with Netball Australia and the elite Suncorp Super Netball league, HCF has been encouraging Australians to adopt an active and wellness-oriented lifestyle. Now, this latest alliance encompasses support for teams such as the GIANTS Netball, Melbourne Vixens, Sunshine Coast Lightning, Queensland Firebirds, NSW Swifts, Adelaide Thunderbirds, and West Coast Fever.
With over 1.2 million individuals participating in netball across Australia, HCF is aiming to offer more than financial backing. Instead, it is emphasising the promotion of women’s health issues in collaboration with players and the broader netball community.
“We’re committed to supporting the dynamic growth of women’s sporting competitions in this country, with netball serving as the number one participation sport for Australian girls and the biggest team sport in Australia,” said HCF CEO Sheena Jack.
Stacey West, interim CEO of Netball Australia, welcomed HCF’s support and highlighted the significant impact of such partnerships in knitting a stronger community bond from the grassroots to the professional tiers and spotlighting critical women’s health topics.
“Netball is a wonderful community from grassroots to elite, with strong connections throughout, and it’s great to have long-term partners like HCF committed to the sport and women’s health issues,” she said. “We commend HCF’s efforts in raising awareness of important health topics, as well as our players for their participation and advocacy for women’s health,”
HCF will introduce “Inside the Circle,” a video series led by Yumi Stynes, which will provide an open forum for discussion with top netball personalities on often-stigmatised subjects like mental health and menstrual health.
Jack elaborated on the series’ goals, focusing on fostering open dialogue and providing advice to enhance viewers’ health and well-being.
“The series offers viewers the opportunity to connect with the players, explore these important topics with honesty, openness, and compassion, and learn practical tips to help stay informed and in charge of their health,” she said.
HCF also recently opened applications for its 2024 Health Services Research Grants, an initiative that encourages Australian researchers to propose projects aimed at revolutionising healthcare outcomes.
