Tamworth Netball Association has been named a recipient of the 2026 Woolworths Netball Grants program, receiving $2,000 to redesign its Skills Clinic and provide a more engaging experience for young players.
The Tamworth club is among grassroots netball organisations across Australia to receive funding through the program, which is providing $100,000 to help clubs increase participation and improve facilities.
New research from Woolworths has reinforced the positive impact of sport, with nearly nine in 10 parents saying it builds their child’s confidence and three in four saying it is an important way for their child to make friends.
However, the research also shows participation is being challenged in the digital age, with children spending more than twice as much time on screens outside school as they do participating in organised sport — 12.7 hours a week compared with 5.8 hours. Thirteen per cent of children are also not playing any sport, highlighting an opportunity to improve access and participation across Australia.
The 2026 Woolworths Netball Grants program will provide 40 grants of $2,000 each, as well as a single $20,000 People’s Choice grant. The funding is intended to create more opportunities for children to participate in netball, stay active and establish healthy habits for life.
Cath Cox, former Australian Diamonds player and Woolworths NetSetGo ambassador, said: “As a coach and a parent, I’ve seen firsthand the impact sport can have on a child’s confidence and sense of belonging.
“It’s so encouraging to see initiatives like the Woolworths Netball Grants continuing to invest in local clubs because when clubs have the right facilities and support, more kids can get involved, have fun and stay active for longer.” Cox said.
Since 2019, Woolworths has donated more than $1.1 million to 322 local netball clubs across Australia, helping communities increase participation and improve access to the sport.
To mark the launch, Woolworths has welcomed new netball ambassadors Teigan O’Shannassy, Jamie-Lee Price and Georgie Horjus.
“We’re excited to be back for another year of the Netball grants program – it’s game on. Local clubs are the heart of our communities, and we want to help make sure they’ve got the gear and facilities they need to keep kids moving.” said Sarah De La Mare, Head of Community & Partnerships at Woolworths.
“It’s great to have some fresh faces joining the team this year; our new ambassadors are going to help us champion grassroots sport and show kids how much fun it is to be part of a team.”
Clubs and associations across the country are encouraged to apply at https://woolworthsnetballgrants.com.au/. Applications are open until 11.59pm on 6 August.
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