Page 96 – Ministry of Sport

Paris Saint-Germain names Richard Heaselgrave Chief Revenue Officer

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Courtney

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has appointed Richard Heaselgrave as its new chief commercial officer, strengthening the club’s leadership team amid ongoing commercial growth.

Heaselgrave, who brings more than two decades of sports industry experience, will oversee PSG’s global commercial strategy from the club’s Paris headquarters.

His responsibilities include managing sponsorships and partnerships, hospitality, ticketing, merchandising, media rights, digital products, and fan engagement.

Commenting on his new role, Richard Heaselgrave, chief commercial officer of Paris Saint-Germain said: “Paris Saint-Germain is the example that clubs, businesses, and communities all around the world aspire to be founded on the values of excellence, creativity, innovation, and leading with purpose.

“It is an honour to join the great institution of Paris Saint-Germain, and I look forward to helping drive the continued growth of the club across all departments, in France and all around the world which in turn drives the sporting ambitions and continued success of this great club.” Heaselgrave said.

Victoriano Melero, chief executive officer of Paris Saint-Germain, added: “We are delighted to have Richard join us at a time of strong results both on and off the pitch.”

“Paris Saint-Germain strives to be a leader in everything we do, and staying ahead means bringing in top talent.”

“Richard brings great experience and expertise, further strengthening one of the best management teams in sport and helping to take us to the next level,” he said.

Under the ownership of Qatar Sports Investments, the club recorded €806 million in revenue during the 2023/24 season, the third highest in global club football.

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F1 Q4 Revenue Falls Despite Increase on Year

Posted on May 14, 2025May 14, 2025 by Courtney

Formula 1 Group demonstrated strong financial performance, as total revenue for the year ending December 31, 2024, reached $3.653 billion (AUD$5.495 billion), representing a 6% increase compared to the $3.222 billion (AUD$4.968 billion) reported in 2023.

However, Q4 revenue dropped to $1.126 billion (AUD$1.736 billion), compared to $1.230 billion (AUD$1.897 billion) in 2023.

F1’s operating income for the full year of 2024 sat at $492 million (AUD$758 million), increasing from $392 million (AUD$604 million) in 2023, while operating income from Q4 fell to $126 million (AUD$194 million), compared to $153 million (AUD$236 million) hte previous year.

The primary revenue sources for F1 include race promotion revenue, media rights fees, and sponsorship fees, contributing 29.3%, 32.8%, and 18.6% of the total revenue for 2024.

Commenting on the financial analysis, Formula 1 president and CEO, Stefano Domenicali, stated: “Formula 1 capped off a record 2024 in race count, revenue and Adjusted OIBDA.”

“We are equally optimistic about 2025 as we mark F1’s 75th anniversary which will provide incremental momentum for our brand.

“Our sponsorship roster is the strongest in the sport’s history and the commercial pipeline remains robust. This commercial success is paired with on-track excitement, as we expect more intense competition after last season’s highly competitive championship,” Domenicali said.

The fourth quarter reflected an allocation of $17 million (AUD$26 million), and $66 million (AUD$103 million) for the full year in corporate-level selling, general and administrative expenses, including stock-based compensation allocated to Formula One Group.

The operations and assets attributed to Formula One Group primarily encompass Liberty Media’s subsidiaries, specifically F1 and Quint Ticketing.

Notably, the percentage of team payments as it relates to pre-team payment Adjusted OIBDA experienced a decrease from 62.6% in 2023 to 61.5% in 2024, reflecting a positive shift in payouts under the 2021 Concorde Agreement.

Additionally, corporate and other revenue saw growth in both the full year and fourth quarter, particularly due to the inclusion of Quint results and a notable recognition of $33 million (AUD$51 million) and $13 million (AUD$20 million) in rental income pertaining to the Las Vegas Grand Prix Plaza for the full year and fourth quarter.

In the fourth quarter, Quint’s performance was primarily driven by F1 Experiences across six significant races, contributing to its seasonal revenue spike during key events.

Liberty Live Group also reported an allocation of $4 million (AUD$6.2 million) and $11 million (AUD$17 million) in corporate-level selling, general, and administrative expenses for the fourth quarter and full year 2024, respectively, stemming from Liberty Media’s interests in entities such as Live Nation and other minority investments.

The insights from this year’s performance underscore the continued financial strength and expanding global presence of Formula One, positioning it as a vital player in the evolving sports business landscape.

Fan attendance reached an impressive 6.5 million, marking a 9% increase from 2023, while sport’s popularity continues to soar with a cumulative audience of 1.6 billion TV viewers and 97 million social media followers, indicating a robust growth trajectory.

As part of its strategic developments, F1 has renewed several key race promotion agreements, including a multi-year deal for the Belgian Grand Prix, commitments for the Dutch Grand Prix through 2026, the Chinese Grand Prix until 2030, and the Italian and Monaco Grands Prix extending through 2031.

Wrexham AFC Announces Australian Tour Schedule

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Courtney

Wrexham AFC, a football club co-owned by actor Ryan Reynolds, is set to make its mark in Australia, with three matches lined up against A-League teams this July.

This development follows the club’s ascent to prominence, thanks in part to the Disney+ documentary, Welcome to Wrexham, which shows the club’s journey after Reynolds and Rob McElhenney acquired the club in 2021.

Having secured promotion to The Championship, the Red Dragons will take on Melbourne Victory at Marvel Stadium on July 11, Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium on July 15, and Wellington Phoenix at Sky Stadium on July 19.

Commenting on the tour, Reynolds and McElhenney, said: “From the very beginning, we wanted to help make Wrexham a globally recognised team, town, and brand.”

“We could not be more excited to bring the Red Dragons to Australia and New Zealand, and we are particularly proud that this announcement features neither a Men at Work or Hugh Jackman joke,” they said.

CEO of Sydney FC, Mark Aubrey, added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Wrexham AFC to Sydney.”

“Their incredible story and continued rise has captured the imagination of fans in Australia and around the world, and we are proud to be hosting this global sensation.

“Facing a team with such momentum, driven by the passion of Rob and Ryan, is a fantastic opportunity for our club and an amazing chance for our members, and the wider football community, to witness Wrexham and their award-winning docu-series first-hand.

“I’m looking forward to seeing Sydney FC and Hollywood glamour mixing in our iconic city at the magnificent Allianz Stadium,” Aubrey said.

Wrexham AFC holds the distinction of being the third-oldest professional club in the world, having recently transitioned from a struggling non-league side to the second division of English football for the first time in almost four decades. Notably, the club has yet to compete in the Premier League.

The Australian audience is particularly engaged with the club’s narrative, as it ranks third in viewership of the “Welcome to Wrexham” series, trailing only the US and the UK.

The events in July promise to be a notable intersection of sport and entertainment, capitalising on the enthusiasm surrounding Wrexham AFC’s unique journey and the growing popularity of football in Australia.

Visa continues as longstanding FIFA partner with new Club World Cup

Posted on May 14, 2025May 13, 2025 by Courtney

Visa has reaffirmed its partnership with FIFA by becoming an official partner for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States from 14 June to 13 July 2025.

The global payments company is focused on enhancing the spectator experience through an assortment of engagement initiatives designed for both in-stadium attendees and viewers at home.

Commenting on the partnership, chief marketing officer at Visa, Frank Cooper III, said: “This addition to our partnership with FIFA underscores Visa’s commitment to football at every level, from grassroots to the grandest stages.”

“We’re excited to take part in this groundbreaking tournament and to bring new experiences to our clients, cardholders, and fans alike,” Cooper said.

Chief business officer at FIFA, Romy Gai, added: “As a partner, Visa has played a standout role in growing the global game, and we’re excited to have them with us as the kick-off of this historic competition approaches.”

This collaboration coincides with the Club World Cup’s transition to a new format, which will expand the tournament from seven to 32 teams, showcasing clubs from each of FIFA’s six confederations.

The revamped competition will now occur every four years, offering greater opportunities for global clubs to compete on an elite stage.

Historically, Visa has supported a range of FIFA events, including the FIFA World Cup and the FIFA Women’s World Cup, in addition to various youth, futsal, beach soccer, and esports competitions.

In late October 2024, reports indicated that long-standing partners Coca-Cola and Adidas had initiated legal proceedings against FIFA, asserting that their existing contracts should encompass sponsorship rights for the new competition.

Both companies expressed concerns that FIFA was favouring alternative revenue streams, leading to dissatisfaction regarding their sponsorship status, especially when only one sponsor had been confirmed for the event at that time.

Fortunately, a resolution was reached, allowing Coca-Cola and Adidas to join Visa, Bank of America, and the Saudi Public Investment Fund as official sponsors when the event commences this summer.

Seattle Storm Announce BECU as Partner for Performance Center

Posted on May 14, 2025May 14, 2025 by Courtney

The Seattle Storm has renewed its partnership with BECU, Washington’s largest credit union, marking a significant milestone for both the franchise and the local community.

The team’s state-of-the-art training facility will now be called the BECU Storm Center for Basketball Performance, making it the first WNBA performance centre named after a sponsor for an independently owned team.

Commenting on this partnership, Beverly Anderson, president and CEO of BECU, said: “BECU is immensely proud to support the creation of this world-class training facility that aids one of the most inspiring teams in the WNBA.”

“With our expanded partnership, we are committed to working closely with the Storm to inspire youth through sports, enhance the financial health of the community, and create opportunities for all to thrive both on and off the court,” Anderson said.

Alisha Valavanis, president and CEO of the Seattle Storm, said: “BECU shares our passion for generating connection and community, one of the Storm’s key tenets.”

“Through their unwavering support, we realised this groundbreaking facility that not only caters to our elite athletes but also lays the groundwork for accessible basketball programs aimed at children who may otherwise lack such opportunities.

“We aspire to inspire and cultivate the next generation of basketball talent within our community while highlighting the importance of sustained investment in women’s sports,” she said.

This renewed collaboration, which has spanned nearly a decade, focuses on fostering basketball participation, especially among historically underrepresented youth.

It also aims to enhance financial literacy and provide accessible opportunities for young athletes.

BECU played a key role in funding the facility’s construction and ongoing operational costs, helping bring the Storm’s vision to life.

As part of the renewed sponsorship, BECU will become the presenting partner of the Jr. Storm Community Hoops series, Together We Rise.

The initiative provides free basketball camps and clinics to up to 600 children each year, in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of King County and Rise Above.

BECU has also pledged $25,000 to support the Storm’s Kicks for Equality auction, benefiting non-profits aligned with the franchise’s charitable mission, Force4Change.

The partnership will be further highlighted at Climate Pledge Arena on May 25 with the unveiling of the BECU Court.

IOC Joins “Solve for Tomorrow” with Sport & Tech Theme

Posted on May 13, 2025 by Courtney

The IOC has joined the “Solve for Tomorrow” initiative, which launched in 2010 and invites students to harness their science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills to tackle pressing real-world challenges in their communities.

With a footprint of over 2.9 million participants spanning 68 countries, the program is set to introduce two new global themes in the current year; Environmental Sustainability via Technology and Social Change through Sport & Technology.

Commenting on the partnership, associate director of Olympism365 at the IOC, Ollie Dudfield, said: “We are delighted to work with Samsung on the creation of this new sport-driven category in their Solve for Tomorrow competition.”

Additionally, this initiative aligns closely with the ambitions of the IOC’s Olympism365 strategy, which empowers young individuals worldwide to creatively explore how sport and technology can instigate positive societal change.

The sport and technology theme, developed in partnership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), underscores a mutual dedication to inspire youth to become proactive changemakers.

By melding the unifying force of sport with pioneering technological advancements, this theme echoes the IOC’s Olympism365 strategy, which utilises sport as a catalyst for sustainable development.

The new Social Change through Sport & Technology theme was inspired in part by public input from the Together for Tomorrow, Enabling People digital community, a collaborative platform initiated by the IOC and Samsung last year to engage and support emerging changemakers.

Participants who successfully complete the challenge will be designated as Solve for Tomorrow Ambassadors, receiving valuable mentorship and guidance from IOC Young Leaders and Samsung professionals, further fostering their development as innovative leaders in the field.

Australian Sport Clubs Reaching Out Next-gen Fans

Posted on May 13, 2025 by Courtney

Leading sports clubs in South Australia are harnessing innovative approaches to foster meaningful engagement and social impact through newly developed community programs and technologies.

A panel discussion called The Future of Fandom, hosted by Flinders University, centred on three significant trends currently shaping the sports landscape: generational change, technological innovation, and the evolving social role of sport.

Featuring sport management expert, professor Adam Karg alongside executives from Port Adelaide Football Club, Adelaide United Football Club, and the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA), the panel exchanged insights on how these organisations are adapting to emerging trends.

Commenting in the discussion, Karg, who also directs the Sports Innovation and Technology Lab at Deakin University, said: “Sports clubs are evolving beyond just performance on the field; they increasingly play a role in generating significant social impact within their communities.”

“While many Australian clubs excel in this area, balancing responsibilities across multiple domains can create real tension for clubs and managers.

“Globally, we’re witnessing the rise of ‘fluid’ fandom, as technological advancements transform how fans engage with and enjoy sport, prompting a shift away from traditional rituals.

“Clubs and sporting codes must broaden their outreach and enhance their connections to remain relevant in a fast-evolving landscape,” he said.

The forum at Flinders University’s City Campus also incorporated students enrolled in its sport management courses, alongside new diplomas developed in collaboration with Port Adelaide, Adelaide United, and SACA. These programs are conducted at Alberton Oval, Adelaide Oval, and the new City Campus.

Local professional clubs are also empowering young individuals from diverse backgrounds, abilities, and sporting interests.

Cabinet Reshuffle Sees Anika Wells Pick Up Communications Portfolio

Posted on May 13, 2025 by Courtney

Federal Sports Ministry, Anika Wells, has picked up the communications portfolio in a cabinet reshuffle, making her presence even more important for sports administrators.

In addition to the newly acquired portfolio, Wells will continue her role of the Minister for Sport and Aged Care, which she stepped into in 2022.

Commenting on her appointment, Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese said that it’s appropriate due to the approaching 2032 Olympics.

“Anika has played a really important role in getting that together, so that will be an important part of her remit,” Albanese said.

“I’ve got people I think who are in the best positions.”

“I think we’ve got the right people in the right places,” he said.

In her added responsibilities, which she acquired from Michelle Rowland, Wells will look at key areas outlined by Free TV Australia, including anti-siphoning laws, removing the commercial broadcasting tax, implementing prominence, regulating digital platforms and supporting the viability of regional and remote broadcasting services.

Currently, anti-siphoning laws prioritise commercial free-to-air broadcasters including Nine, Seven, Ten, ABC and SBS when it comes to events on the anti-siphoning list.

The event list includes:

Summer and Winter Olympic Games
AFL Finals
NRL Finals
Various national team events
Motorsport

Free TV Australia’s focus on strengthening anti-siphoning laws comes at a crucial time, not only due to Wells’ appointment, but also due to the rise of streaming giants that putting focus on sports streaming, which can be conveniently packaged into existing subscriptions.

For this reason there has been reviews into streaming services, where proposed changes have focused on ensuring digital access for free-to-air viewers.

Verizon Named Exclusive Wireless Partner for New Bills Stadium

Posted on May 13, 2025 by Courtney

The Buffalo Bills have officially revealed that Verizon will serve as the exclusive wireless telecommunications partner for the Highmark Stadium.

As part of this landmark agreement, Verizon has also been designated as a Founding Partner of the new stadium.

Commenting on the partnership, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Buffalo Bills, Pete Guelli, said: “The collaboration with Verizon as the Official 5G Network and a Founding Partner is a significant advancement in the quest to enhance the fan experience at every level,”

“Verizon’s expertise in 5G technology will revolutionise the way our fans engage with the game and with one another, providing state-of-the-art connectivity throughout the stadium and its adjoining campus.

“Together, we are establishing a new benchmark for live sports, creating immersive and seamless experiences that will keep our fans at the forefront of innovation,” Guelli said.

Atlantic North Market president at Verizon, Chris Flood, added: “Bills fans are renowned for their passion, and we are thrilled to provide them with Verizon 5G technology that will transform their game-day experiences,”

“From ultrafast connectivity to enhanced in-stadium features, our partnership is centred on delivering an immersive experience that ensures fan engagement with every play.

“Together, we are equipping the venue with technology that elevates each moment, both on and off the field, to provide a next-level fan experience,” Flood added.

As the Official 5G Network for the new Highmark Stadium, Verizon will manage the neutral host Distributed Antenna System (DAS) within the venue and deploy cutting-edge technology and wireless solutions designed to keep fans connected.

The Bills organisation will also integrate Verizon Business Solutions and services into the new stadium, focusing on sustainability, operational efficiency, and enhanced fan experiences.

During the stadium’s construction phase, Verizon Business is providing temporary Wi-Fi access points to support the design, logistics, and installation processes.

The venue will also feature state-of-the-art video displays, sound systems, team facilities, and comprehensive amenities, including food service kitchens and ample concourse space designed with fan experience in mind.

In addition to connectivity, stadium attendees will benefit from exclusive programming, sweepstakes, and on-site activations, while Verizon customers will enjoy unique experiences and access throughout the season.

Notably, Verizon is donating an additional $20,000 to the Veterans One-Stop Center, a Buffalo-based nonprofit committed to enhancing the lives of local veterans and their families, following an earlier contribution of $20,000, making a total donation of $40,000 to the organisation.

With a strong focus on public and private network capabilities, along with a robust technology ecosystem, Verizon is set to revolutionise the connected venue experience in the sports and entertainment sectors, paving the way for both fans and venue operators to achieve their operational goals and deliver unparalleled fan experiences.

Nine locks in Rugby World Cups Broadcasting Deal

Posted on May 13, 2025May 13, 2025 by Courtney

Nine Entertainment and its streaming platform, Stans has secured a long-term broadcasting deal to air both the men’s and women’s Rugby World Cup tournaments in Australia, solidifying the media company’s position as a key player in the sport.

This agreement, which extends through 2029, also encompasses the broadcast rights for the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series and the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup.

Commenting on the broadcasting deal, chairwoman of Nine, Catherine West, said the collaboration exemplifies the company’s strategy to leverage its various media businesses to expand the audience and revenue potential of rugby.

This announcement follows Nine’s recent five-year pact with Rugby Australia covering Super Rugby matches, as well as tests involving the Wallabies and Wallaroos.

The Rugby Australia agreement also includes key events such as the Bledisloe Cup, the Rugby Championship, and the soon-to-be-launched Nations Cup, featuring teams from England, France, Australia, South Africa, and Japan.

The financial terms of the new agreement represent a substantial increase over Nine’s previous arrangement, valued at approximately AUD$150 million, which comprised cash and free advertising.

In the context of an evolving media landscape, live sport remains one of the few strategies available to broadcasters for attracting and maintaining viewership.

As Nine prepares to negotiate a new multimillion-dollar broadcast agreement with the NRL, shares were valued at $1.56 earlier on Monday, reflecting ongoing developments in the media and sports landscape.

India-Pakistan Tensions Suspend IPL, Postpone PSL

Posted on May 13, 2025May 13, 2025 by Courtney

The ongoing military tension between India and Pakistan has significantly impacted the cricket calendar, leading to the suspension of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the postponement of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

The IPL, heralded as the world’s most lucrative Twenty20 cricket league, was put on hold for a week as of Friday, while the PSL was pushed back just a day after the Pakistan Cricket Board had announced plans to relocate its remaining games to Dubai.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to release an updated schedule, with many foreign players already returning home due to the escalating situation.

Reports indicate that IPL organisers are considering three southern Indian cities, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad, as potential hosts for the remaining 16 matches, contingent upon receiving approval from the Indian government.

This year, the IPL has seen participation from 65 foreign cricketers across various nations, while a significant number of players who were not selected in the IPL auction had joined the PSL, which was originally set to conclude on May 18.

The BCCI stated that the decision to suspend the IPL was made “in the collective interest of all stakeholders,” emphasising that while cricket holds national significance, the sovereignty and security of the country must take precedence.

The IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was abandoned on Thursday due to a power outage during a mandated blackout, exacerbating the situation as logistics were already challenged by the closure of several airports in northern India.

PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, conducted meetings with foreign cricketers and PSL franchise owners, first signalling a potential relocation of matches to Dubai before announcing the suspension.

The PCB prioritised the safety and mental well-being of the players, stressing the need to respect the concerns of families wanting their loved ones home safely.

The PCB had earlier confirmed the plan to move matches to the UAE, citing rising safety concerns among overseas players, but the final announcement on postponement left uncertainty regarding a possible resumption of the PSL this year.

Atlanta Dream, Cash App Dedicated to Progressing Women’s Sport

Posted on May 13, 2025 by Courtney

The Atlanta Dream and Cash App have unveiled a partnership that underscores the financial service platform’s dedication to advancing women’s sports and accessible financial management for all.

As part of this landmark agreement, Cash App will serve as the Official Financial Services Partner of the Atlanta Dream and take on the role of jersey sponsor for the upcoming 2025 season.

The Cash App logo will make its mark on all three variations of the Atlanta Dream jersey, prominently featured in both the patch (chest) and marquee (abdomen) positions. Additionally, Cash App branding will be integrated into the team’s practice shirts.

Commenting on the partnership, Dream president and chief operating officer, Morgan Shaw Parker, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Cash App as our Official Financial Services Partner.”

“Cash App shares our commitment to empowering girls and women through sports while fostering economic opportunities within our community.

“Their energy and creativity in this collaboration have been exceptional, and we eagerly anticipate unveiling more programming as the season approaches,” Parker said.

Chief marketing officer of Cash App, Catherine Ferdon, added: “It’s an honor to partner with the Atlanta Dream as they redefine the intersection of sports and community with impactful initiatives.”

“We are eager to collaborate with the Dream to offer exceptional experiences for fans and uplift the Atlanta community while championing female athletes,” Ferdon said.

This innovative partnership transcends typical sponsorship, aiming to create a positive impact on the Atlanta community aligned with the shared goals of both organisations.

Throughout the year, the Dream and Cash App intend to roll out initiatives dedicated to promoting equity, empowering women and girls, and expanding the reach of basketball.

Cash App will bolster the Dream’s community programming by providing camps and clinics designed for young girls, focusing on S.T.E.M. education, leadership training, and basketball skills.

They will also play a pivotal role in supporting the Dream Collective, a program designed to alleviate marketing barriers and offer essential resources for small business owners in underrepresented communities.

Fans will experience Cash App’s integration into the Dream’s gameday atmosphere through various initiatives, including exclusive discounts on merchandise and in-arena food and beverages for Cash App users, along with branded giveaways and in-game activations.

Moreover, Cash App will provide curated content and promotional signage within the Gateway Center Arena and across the Dream’s social media platforms.

With an emphasis on fan engagement, Cash App’s sports marketing strategy will also incorporate in-person activations, exclusive discounts for users, and access to unique experiences.

Chris Harrop Announced As New Tennis Australia Chair

Posted on May 13, 2025May 13, 2025 by Courtney

Chris Harrop, a seasoned business leader and strategist, has been appointed as the new chair of Tennis Australia, set to succeed Jayne Hrdlicka following her term’s conclusion after the Tennis Australia 2025 AGM.

Harrop, a devoted tennis enthusiast and recreational player, currently serves as an advisory partner at Bain & Company, a global strategy consulting firm, bringing more than 30 years of diverse business experience across Australia, the U.S., and the U.K and has been a member of the Tennis Australia Board since December 2023.

In a complementary appointment, Dan Bisa has been selected as the deputy chair, a role he will officially assume post-AGM.

Bisa boasts extensive knowledge of the sport, having spent five years on the Tennis Australia Board and four years as Chair of Tennis ACT. He is also an accomplished entrepreneur in hospitality and property across the ACT and NSW.

The Board’s diligent succession planning underscores its commitment to ensuring the sport’s robust future, demonstrating confidence in these strategic choices.

Hrdlicka, who joined the Tennis Australia Board in February 2016, made history as the organisation’s first female Chair in October 2017.

Under her leadership, the Australian Open has thrived, participation rates have surged, and Australian players have excelled on the global stage, including at Grand Slams, the Olympics, and the Paralympics.

Additionally, her tenure has seen the introduction of the United Cup and the development of a strategic vision that solidifies Australia’s standing in the international tennis community.

World Netball and Netball Australia Meet with Brisbane 2032 CEO

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Courtney

World Netball and Netball Australia have held a meeting with members of the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee, including CEO Cindy Hook, where the organisations increased their efforts to secure netball’s spot at the Olympic Games.

The meeting, centred on the feasibility and implications of incorporating netball into the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, and alog with Hook, featured World Netball CEO, Fiona Harold, Netball Australia CEO, Stacey West, and President, Liz Ellis AO, was conducted virtually due to weather conditions in Brisbane, deviating from its initial in-person format.

Commenting on the meeting, Harold, said: “Following World Netball commissioning a feasibility study and consulting multiple stakeholders to ensure that bidding for inclusion in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games is in the best interests of the sport, meeting with Cindy and Brendan to understand the potential of netball’s inclusion in the Games was a hugely important next step for us.”

“In line with World Netball’s Articles of Association, we will continue striving for Olympic inclusion, as long as it aligns with the long-term vision of our sport,” Harold said.

West, added: “Netball is the leading sport for women and girls in Australia, and our game is growing strongly into the men’s market and across the globe.”

“Of course, we want to play on the world’s biggest sporting stage at the Olympics in our home country, and we’re doing the work to see what’s possible,” West noted.

In addition to their discussions with Brisbane 2032, World Netball and Netball Austraila are actively engaging with the International Olympic Committee and the Australian Olympic Committee, signalling a comprehensive strategy aimed at achieving Olympic recognition for netball in 2032.

Harvey Norman Celebrates Women In League Round 2025

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Courtney

The National Rugby League (NRL), in partnership with Harvey Norman, is marking the 19th year of Women In League Round during Round 10 of the 2025 Telstra Premiership season, and will have a focus on ovarian cancer.

For a second year, the NRL has teamed up with Ovarian Cancer Australia to raise awareness of the nation’s deadliest female cancer.

The Harvey Norman NRL Women In League Internship Program is also avaiable and offers paid 12-month placements for young women to gain hands-on experience in the business of sport, shared between Harvey Norman and the NRL.

The Mentoring Program matches 20 high-performing women from clubs, State Leagues, and the NRL with experienced executive mentors from the world of sport and business.

Commenting on the contribution of women in the game, Andrew Abdo, NRL CEO said: “Harvey Norman Women In League Round not only shines a light on the women that are shaping Rugby League today, but importantly it highlights the fact that there are roles and opportunities for women to be involved at every level of our game.”

“This is a silent killer, and Ovarian Cancer Australia is leading the fight against ovarian cancer by providing support and resources, research developments and funding to support those living with the condition now and in the future.

“The internship and mentoring programs proved extremely popular with over 300 applicants in year one and we look forward to welcoming the next cohort of aspiring young women into these programs this year.” he said.

Harvey Norman CEO, Katie Page, added: “In the lead up to this year’s Women’s State of Origin and Women in League round, Andrew Abdo and I hosted a working lunch with players from every NRLW club.”

“The women at the table were extraordinarily curious and provided us with invaluable insights into how, together, we can build our Women’s game.” Norman said.

At grassroots level, the NRL is hosting female-only events throughout the week across New South Wales and Queensland, including tackle and tag gala days, league stars clinics exclusively for girls, and Schoolgirl Cup matches.

For the first time, every Schoolgirl Cup match will be streamed live on KommunityTV, allowing fans to watch the next generation of NRLW talent take centre stage.