St Kilda Football Club is thrilled to announce a community partnership with the Wilson Storage Southern Saints Netball Club.
The Southern Saints form part of the BUPA Victorian Netball League, fielding teams in the Championship, Division 1 and 19 & Under competitions.
The community partnership was formally announced late last month, with the initiative aiming to strengthen both clubs’ connection within the Bayside area and nurture the growing female supporter and athlete base of both codes.
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St Kilda Football Club General Manager Community Lisa Laing was excited at the prospects of the newly-formed partnership.
“We’re delighted to be able to partner with the Wilson Storage Southern Saints NetballClub”, said Laing.
“This partnership is another opportunity for us to extend our role in the overall growth and development of women’s sport in the Bayside region of Melbourne.”
The Southern Saints’ Championship, Division 1 and 19 & Under players will have access to RSEA Park’s facilities and will have opportunities to learn from some of the Saints’ best coaches, players and administration personnel.
Southern Saints Club President Kane Fetterplace said the partnership was an important step in solidifying the connection with the local community and increasing participation in sport.
“We’re so excited to have the backing of such an elite club in St Kilda,” he said.
“To be able to train at their facilities and adopt some of their professionalism will be invaluable to us and other netballers looking to elevate their game.”
St Kilda midfielder Jack Newnes agreed, saying any steps to encourage women participating in sport are positive ones.
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“The two-way access between St Kilda and the Southern Saints will be a great asset for both clubs,” Newnes said.
“It’s great that this is able to support the Bayside community and help encourage young girls get involved in sport, no matter whether it’s with a round ball or an oval one.”
The Wilson Storage Southern Saints Netball Club was established in 2008 as an inaugural club competing in the Victorian Netball League, winning the title of Premiers in 2014 in the Championship division.
