Page 98 – Ministry of Sport

Red Sox Drive Mental Health Conversation with Nonprofits.

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Courtney

In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Boston Red Sox have unveiled “Changeup the Conversation,” a new season-long initiative aimed at enhancing mental health support and access across New England.

The programme will formally kick off with pregame ceremonies on May 7, prior to that evening’s matchup between the Red Sox and the Rangers, where the team will honour its six partner nonprofit organisations.

Throughout the season, the Red Sox will highlight one New England-based mental health nonprofit each month, utilising both in-park activities and storytelling via social media.

These monthly themes will encompass various aspects of mental health, including its relationship to sports, stress management strategies, and preventative measures against suicide.

Participants from the featured organisations will have the opportunity to visit Fenway Park to watch batting practice, interact with Red Sox players, and enjoy the game.

To further engage the community, each nonprofit will set up an informational table in the concourse, providing visitors with details about their specific programmes.

Additionally, those who attend will receive goody bags and “Changeup the Conversation” t-shirts, while their narratives will be shared on the Red Sox Community Relations social media platforms, aimed at promoting dialogue and reducing stigma surrounding emotional well-being.

The six partner organisations exemplify a comprehensive spectrum of approaches to mental health, including peer-led support, LGBTQ+ affirming environments, sport-based therapy, and suicide prevention initiatives.

These organisations and their missions include:

Active Minds: This organisation mobilises young adults to openly discuss mental health and foster communities of support within schools and universities nationwide.
Doc Wayne: As a therapy provider, Doc Wayne employs sports and play to address mental health concerns, offering both individual and group sessions for youth and adults, alongside training for caregivers and professionals.
KyleCares: Focused on facilitating candid conversations regarding mental health challenges faced by teens and young adults, KyleCares promotes education and awareness while implementing suicide prevention programmes in high schools and colleges across New England.
OUT MetroWest: This organisation is dedicated to fostering supportive communities for LGBTQ+ youth, connecting them with peers and affirming adult role models.
Samaritans: Operating across Massachusetts, Samaritans provides suicide prevention resources and grief support services. They offer a 24/7 helpline, peer-to-peer texting for youth, community education initiatives, and survivor support programmes.
The Jed Foundation: This nonprofit is committed to safeguarding emotional health and preventing suicide among teenagers and young adults. By partnering with educational institutions, The Jed Foundation strengthens mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention programmes, equipping young people with essential skills and knowledge.

“Changeup the Conversation” is spearheaded by the Red Sox Community Relations team and aligns with Major League Baseball’s ongoing commitment to promoting mental wellness within the league.

By connecting fans with local partners and amplifying authentic experiences, this initiative aims to cultivate a culture of openness, support, and resilience both within Fenway Park and in the wider community.

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Basketball Australia asked to investigate claims in owners’ spat

Posted on May 9, 2025May 9, 2025 by Courtney

Basketball’s international governing body, FIBA, has passed an investigation concerning billionaire NBL owner Larry Kestelman’s alleged conflict of interest to Basketball Australia, indicating that the matter falls outside its jurisdiction.

Crest Sport and Entertainment (Crest SE), the ownership group of the reigning champions, the Illawarra Hawks, has reached out to competing clubs, urging them to report any potential prohibited conduct to Basketball Australia for further investigation.

Vice chairman of Crest SE, Terry Egger, said that the group has “taken the brunt” of Kestelman’s retaliation and that of the privately owned National Basketball League (NBL) regarding these allegations, thus encouraging rival clubs to come forward with their experiences.

Egger emphasised that Crest is prepared to provide documentation to assist Basketball Australia’s probe, in correspondence sent to the NBL clubs on Wednesday.

Egger further asserted that Crest and the Hawks had already endured significant retaliation, suggesting that any other owners who share Crest’s concerns would not face the same challenges by participating in the process now.

Since 2015, the league has been under the private ownership of Kestelman, a co-founder of the telecommunications company Dodo, and he is also a part-owner of the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL).

Kestelman has faced increased scrutiny following the Illawarra Hawks’ ownership filing a claim with the Supreme Court, raising concerns about the operational management of the league.

Crest Sport, owned by Jared Novelly, is seeking access to documentation reflecting the NBL’s financial health and alleges that the league has consistently breached its licensing agreement by failing to disclose third-party transactions involving Kestelman’s companies.

Kestelman has also requested an investigation from FIBA, with Egger noting that FIBA has instructed Basketball Australia to investigate and address the allegations raised.

Egger expressed his belief in Basketball Australia’s ability to conduct a proper investigation into Kestelman’s conflicts of interest, citing his interests in the WNBL and related agreements.

Egger, noted: “We know Basketball Australia is focused on ensuring the success and integrity of the game in Australia,”

“We intend to engage with Basketball Australia to understand how it will ensure that any investigation is realised in a thorough, transparent, and independent manner,” he said

In response to the ongoing concerns, Kestelman has consistently denied any lack of transparency and has enlisted KordaMentha to review documentation related to the Hawks amidst accusations of licence breaches.

Tensions intensified last week when the NBL reversed its decision to appoint a new company for running travel arrangements after it was disclosed that Kestelman holds part-ownership in the agency.

Toyota NZ, New Zealand Rugby Team Up In Three-Year Partnership

Posted on May 9, 2025May 9, 2025 by Courtney

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and Toyota New Zealand (TNZ) have formalised a new three-year partnership to supporting Aotearoa’s national rugby teams.

The agreement designates Toyota as the Official Mobility Partner for an extensive roster of teams, including the All Blacks, Black Ferns, Māori All Blacks, All Blacks Sevens, Black Ferns Sevens, All Blacks XV, and New Zealand Under 20s.

As a part of this partnership, Toyota branding will be prominently displayed across training jerseys, training kits for each team, and during test matches.

Commenting on the partnership, NZR CEO, Mark Robinson said: “We are thrilled to be announcing a three-year partnership with Toyota today.”

“Toyota is a highly respected and incredibly well-known brand, and we are excited about what we can achieve together,

“Much like rugby, Toyota is deeply embedded in the fabric of New Zealand life.

“The shared values and strategic alignment between our organisations have made this partnership a natural fit.

“Having a global partnership with a New Zealand-based organisation of this calibre presents a significant opportunity to collaborate, as we support our national teams and advance New Zealand’s national sport,” he said.

Toyota New Zealand CEO, Tatsuya Ishikawa added: “Announcing a partnership with an iconic brand like New Zealand Rugby is a big moment.

“As a nation, we are united in our pride for our national sports heroes and heroines. Our vision for ‘Let’s Go Places’ is about bringing everyone on our journey to becoming a mobility company and moving forward together.

“Sport is a powerful connector, and we are excited to work with NZR to engage even more meaningfully with our local communities,” Ishikawa noted.

For Toyota New Zealand, this partnership provides an opportunity to engage with local communities and leverage the global visibility of New Zealand Rugby to enhance their brand’s connection to the sport.

It also promises significant value, particularly in its support for all national teams and in fostering engagement with Kiwi fans during key events throughout the rugby calendar.

NBA Playoffs Ratings Up 6%, Warriors-Rockets Sets Game 7 Record

Posted on May 9, 2025May 9, 2025 by Courtney

The NBA has effectively leveraged its historic viewership during a holiday weekend to achieve an increase in their TV ratings.

In the first round of the 2024/25 postseason, the playoffs averaged 3.7 million viewers across networks including ABC, ESPN, and TNT, marking a 6% increase from last year’s average of 3.5 million, according to Nielsen.

A contributing factor to this rise was the average of 4.4 million viewers during the Playoffs’ opening night, which coincided with the Easter holiday.

This was also the NBA’s most-watched weekend in 25 years, reflecting a 17% increase from the prior year.

Comprising both ABC and ESPN, the average audience reached 4.46 million viewers over the course of 12 games, which is a 14% uptick from last year’s figures.

ABC led the ratings with an average of 5.56 million viewers across six games, marking a 14% increase, while the six games on ESPN recorded a 10% rise.

These figures resonate with the regular season’s performance, where ABC experienced a similar 10% rise, despite an overall 2% decline in national TV viewership plugged by reduced cable game broadcasts.

TNT reported an average viewership of 3.3 million across its 25 first-round playoff games, demonstrating a modest 3% growth from last year.

A standout moment in this round was Game 7 between the Warriors and Rockets, which attracted 6.6 million viewers, making it the most-watched first-round Game 7 on cable since 2009.

This game was the third-most-watched of the first round, surpassed only by two ABC weekend matchups: Game 4 of the Lakers vs. Timberwolves (7.4 million viewers) and Game 1 of Magic vs. Celtics (6.7 million viewers).

Looking ahead, the NBA’s challenge lies in sustaining this momentum as it transitions into the second round, following the elimination of star players such as LeBron James and Luka Dončić along with the Lakers.

During the regular season, the Lakers featured in the most-watched game (against the Warriors on Christmas Day), the most-viewed non-Christmas game (against the Celtics on March 8), and the leading non-Christmas, non-opening-night game on cable (versus the Mavericks on February 25).

Federal Government Funds $70 Million Victorian Netball Development

Posted on May 9, 2025May 9, 2025 by Courtney

Netball communities throughout Victoria are poised for a substantial boost in infrastructure following the federal election.

The Albanese Labor Government has pledged over AUD$70 million aimed at developing new and upgrading existing local sports facilities.

Several key projects are set to receive significant funding, including a new pavilion at Templeton Reserve in Wantirna, which will receive $3 million, and major renovation works at Drysdale Football & Netball Club, allocated $5.45 million.

Additionally, the North Bendigo Recreation Reserve is earmarked for AUD$3 million, while the Nunawading Indoor Sports Centre will undergo an expansion costing AUD$45 million.

This funding will also extend support to venues in Werribee, Whittlesea, Somerville, Sunbury, and Fish Creek, creating safer and more inclusive environments for netball players across both metropolitan and regional areas.

Some funding commitments include:

Nunawading basketball centre in Burwood East renewal – $45 m (Chisholm, Vic)
New boutique rectangular stadium at Casey Fields– $10.68 m (Bruce / Holt, Vic)
Drysdale Football & Netball Club upgrade -$5.45 m (Corangamite, Vic)
Portarlington Recreation Reserve upgrade – $5.45m
Soldiers Reserve Pavilion Werribee construction – $5 m (Lalor, Vic)

Netball Victoria has welcomed this financial commitment, recognising its potential to enhance participation opportunities and bolster local communities.

Football Australia CEO Resigns After 5 Year Tenure

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Courtney

In a significant development for Australian football, Football Australia CEO, James Johnson, has announced his resignation from the role, concluding a five and a half year tenure marked by notable achievements and challenges.

Under his stewardship, Australian football not only navigated the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic but also reached unprecedented levels of participation, showcasing the sport’s resilience.

Commenting on his departure, Johnson, said: “It has been a privilege to lead Football Australia for the past 5½ years, having had the pleasure to work alongside the most talented, committed and dedicated staff, executives and board members.”

“As someone who is immensely passionate about Australian football, this decision has not come easy, but I believe the time is right to step down.

“I want to extend my thank you to the Football Australia Board and everyone within the Australian football community for their support during my tenure. Football is a local and global sport so no matter where I am, I will always be here to support Football Australia and Australian football,” he said.

Johnson played a crucial role in establishing a 15-year Vision for Football Australia, which has facilitated record revenue growth and introduced pivotal reforms such as club licensing regulations and significant adjustments to the player transfer system.

His efforts also revitalised the Australia Cup, enhancing its connections with Asia through the AFC Club Competitions.

One of the crown jewels of Johnson’s tenure was leading the successful bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™, a milestone event that has been widely acclaimed and considered a cultural watershed for sport in Australia.

Additionally, he oversaw the successful acquisition of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™, further solidifying Australia’s position on the global football stage.

His leadership helped elevate both the men’s and women’s national teams into globally recognised brands, with both sides achieving their best-ever results during the FIFA World Cup 2022™ and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™.

In the wake of Johnson’s departure, the Board of Football Australia has appointed current director and former Matildas player Heather Garriock as the Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Finally, Johnson will support the Board to finalise key projects and ensure a smooth transition to the next CEO.

Perth Bears Set To Become 18th NRL Team

Posted on May 9, 2025May 8, 2025 by Courtney

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has formalised a significant agreement with the Western Australian Government to establish the National Rugby League’s (NRL) 18th franchise in Perth, set to commence in 2027.

This partnership marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of rugby league in Australia, reintroducing a team to WA while also reviving the North Sydney Bears.

The deal between both parties will see the Western Australia taxpayers cover AUD$60 million over the next seven years in direct financial support, as well as a further AUD$5.6 million in matchday and marketing assistance.

ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM said the announcement is a transformative event for rugby league, underscoring the natural fit of a franchise in Western Australia’s thriving economic environment.

“Rugby League is the biggest sport in Australia and the Pacific, so a team in the economic powerhouse of Western Australia is a natural fit. Why should West Australian fans miss out on the greatest game for all?” V’landys said.

“Western Australians love sport, and now they have the opportunity to get behind a Perth-based Rugby League Club that will capture the hearts and minds of fans across the country.

“As a foundation club, the Bears have a rich history in the game and automatically provide hundreds of thousands of East Coast supporters for the Perth-based team.

“The heritage of the Bears combined with the energy of the West will have this team flying from the outset.

“Thanks to Roger Cook and the Government’s partnership and investment, we expect to double Rugby League participation in WA over the next five years.”

NRL CEO, Andrew Abdo, added: “There has never been a more exciting time to be part of Rugby League, and we are excited for sports fans in Western Australia and the country who will no doubt get behind the Perth-based team when it enters the competition in 2027.”

Additionally, Western Australia Premier, Roger Cook, emphasised the positive ramifications for both sports fans and the local economy.

“A new WA NRL club will deliver jobs and new economic activity, including a boost in tourism and visitation as the WA brand is exposed to millions across Australia and overseas,” Cook said.

This agreement is set to usher in a new era for rugby league in Western Australia, promising engaging competition and strengthening the league’s footprint in one of Australia’s most promising sporting landscapes.

Phillies Set To Host 13th Phantastic Auction

Posted on May 9, 2025May 8, 2025 by Courtney

The Philadelphia Phillies, in partnership with Audacy’s SportsRadio 94WIP, are set to host the 13th edition of the Phantastic Auction, a charitable initiative that provides fans with the opportunity to bid on unique experiences and memorabilia associated with the team.

This event, which takes place online, gives supporters a chance to contribute to good causes while purchasing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities tied to the franchise.

This year’s auction features 68 exclusive experiences, including a Wiffle ball party with All-Star infielder Bryce Harper, a Home Run Derby with Kyle Schwarber, and private lessons in hitting and pitching with J.T. Realmuto and Zack Wheeler, respectively.

Other highlights include a golf outing with Phillies legend, Cole Hamels and a baseball cards party curated by pitcher, Matt Strahm.

These offerings are designed to bring fans closer to their heroes, creating memorable moments that extend beyond the game.

In addition to experiences, the auction also showcases an extensive collection of memorabilia available for bidding.

Participants can place bids on signed items, such as a set of bats from the current Phillies roster and a historically significant collection of Hall of Fame autographs featuring legends like Billy Wagner and Robin Roberts.

Fans can explore the complete list of auction items through the dedicated webpage at phillies.com/phantasticauction, with bidding running until Sunday, May 18.

Notably, a portion of all proceeds will benefit ALS United Mid-Atlantic and Phillies Charities, Inc., reinforcing the team’s commitment to supporting community initiatives.

The Phantastic Auction has been a resounding success, raising over $2.3 million for various charitable causes since its inception.

Last year’s event set a new milestone, generating USD$548,200, showcasing the generosity and support of the Phillies’ fanbase.

For those interested in participating, the auction presents numerous opportunities ranging from exclusive player experiences to coveted memorabilia.

Highlights of the 2025 Phantastic Auction include:

Player, Coach, and Front Office Experiences:

Kid’s Wiffle Ball Party with Bryce Harper
Private Lessons with All-Star Players
Home Run Derby with Kyle Schwarber
Catching and Hitting Secrets from J.T. Realmuto
Miniature Golf with Alec Bohm and Brandon Marsh

Alumni Experiences:

A dinner party with Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt
Behind-the-scenes stadium tours with Phillies legends
Block parties with ambassadors and the Phillie Phanatic

Exclusive Memorabilia:

Autographed baseballs and jerseys from current and former players
Collections celebrating key historical moments in Phillies history

The continued success of the Phantastic Auction reflects the ongoing relationship between the Phillies organisation and its passionate fanbase.

Timbers to commemorate Asian-American Pacific Islander Night with Exclusive scarf

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Courtney

The Portland Timbers have announced their Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Night on May 28, when they host the Colorado Rapids at Providence Park.

The event will showcase AAPI culture through performances by local talents, including Pop R&B artist, Rachel Wong and the Portland Taiko troupe.

Fans can also enjoy a prematch Haka by the Teva Oriata Polynesian Dance Troupe and a half-time Tinikling performance by the Filipino American Friendship Club of Oregon.

A key feature of the evening will be a limited-edition scarf designed by local artist Ricky Gaspar.

Commenting on diversity, Ricky Gaspar, said: “I took the energy and passion for this sport, this city, and this team and tried to tie that to the same passion and energy that the AAPI community and peoples of the Pacific are known for as well.”

Available exclusively to ticket holders, the scarf highlights the rich heritage of the AAPI community, where its design incorporates native Austronesian patterns and Polynesian nature motifs.

This bold statement is accompanied by patterns representing regions from Hawaii to the Philippines, creating a visual representation of cultural pride.

On the opposite side, the scarf’s gold design pays tribute to the “Rose City Til’ I Die” mantra.

The scarf is available in limited quantities and can be pre-ordered as part of a ticket package, but will also be sold on matchday at PTFC Authentics locations at Providence Park.

Timberwolves, Lynx and tonies Celebrate National Screen-Free Week

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by Courtney

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx have partnered with tonies, an audio entertainment system designed for young children, to celebrate National Screen-Free Week.

This initiative aims to promote screen-free engagement and active play among children, encouraging healthier, more creative activities.

In collaboration with local organisations, including the A Mother’s Love Initiative, the Timberwolves and Lynx are hosting a “Little Dribblers” basketball clinic.

The clinic, held at the teams’ practice facility, will welcome over 50 children from kindergarten to second grade.

During the event, the young participants will take part in a skills clinic run by the Timberwolves & Lynx Basketball Academy, focusing on fostering a love for basketball and promoting fun physical activity that supports young development.

Each child will receive a Toniebox and Tonies figurines, further encouraging screen-free play beyond the clinic.

As part of this initiative, tonies has also pledged to donate 50 additional Tonieboxes and figurines to Playworks, a Timberwolves & Lynx Starting Five Grantee.

Playworks Minnesota impacted nearly 40,000 students last year, helping to create safe play environments and increasing opportunities for physical activity.

This multi-year collaboration is designed to enhance young fans’ experiences with engaging, educational, and screen-free play.

Unrivaled Sports raises $120M from Dick’s Sporting Goods, Miller Sports & Entertainment, others

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Courtney

Unrivaled Sports, an emerging leader in the youth sports sector through its roll-up strategy of sports operators and facilities, has successfully completed a substantial USD$120 million (AUD$185 million) funding round led by Dick’s Sporting Goods.

This investment round also saw continued support from founding investor The Chernin Group, alongside new contributions from Dynasty Equity, LionTree, and Miller Sports & Entertainment.

Commenting on the funds raised, chairman and CEO of Unrivaled Sports and a former Nike executive, Andy Campion, said: “The mission of Dick’s, from its inception, has been to positively impact children’s lives through sports.”

“Our aim in bringing them on board was focused on that shared vision,” Campion said.

This recent investment was finalised just over a year after the company’s establishment in March 2024, with backing from majority owners David Blitzer and Josh Harris.

The involvement of the Miller family was hinted at last month, following its acquisition of Real Salt Lake from Blitzer.

In making that announcement, Miller Sports & Entertainment expressed commitment to enhancing Utah’s youth sports infrastructure in partnership with Unrivaled.

In its inaugural year, Unrivaled has curated a diverse portfolio including Ripken Baseball, Cooperstown All Star Village, Under the Lights Flag Football, and Rocker B Ranch, with a reach spanning 30 states and serving over 600,000 young athletes annually.

Currently, Unrivaled has concentrated on establishing a dominant presence in baseball/softball and flag football, the latter experiencing a 30% increase in participation year-over-year.

Campion sees expansion opportunities within these strong segments, particularly highlighting the upcoming hosting of the first high school girls’ national championship in flag football this summer.

Ravens and Stephen & Renee Bisciotti Foundation Provide $20 Million Nursing Workforce Grant

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by Courtney

In a major move to strengthen Baltimore’s healthcare system, the Baltimore Ravens and The Stephen and Renee Bisciotti Foundation have committed USD$20 million to address the nursing workforce shortage in the region.

Announced on National Nurses Day, the initiative aims to enhance nurse recruitment, training, and retention efforts across four local hospital systems in Baltimore.

Commenting on this institution, Steve Bisciotti, Ravens owner, said: “The Baltimore region is fortunate to have world-class medical institutions.”

“Nurses are the unsung heroes of our healthcare system, and investing in them ensures we have skilled, dependable professionals who keep it running smoothly,” Bisciotti said.

The funding will be allocated through four USD$5 million grants to MedStar Health, the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), Johns Hopkins Health System, and Mercy Medical Center, all of which play critical roles in the region’s healthcare infrastructure.

Maryland is expected to face a 20% nursing shortfall, which translates to approximately 14,700 nurses, by 2036, which highlights the urgency of investing in the nursing workforce to ensure long-term healthcare stability.

The grant will allow recipient institutions to experiment with and implement strategic solutions to combat these challenges, particularly focusing on both nurse recruitment and nurse retention strategies.

Hospitals will also have the flexibility to explore various initiatives aimed at enhancing nursing education, job satisfaction, and professional development.

Potential Uses of the Funding Include:

Expanding nursing education programs and increasing clinical placements
Offering financial support to aspiring nurses through scholarships and loan repayment options
Developing flexible scheduling alternatives and career advancement pathways
Establishing mentorship programs to connect experienced nurses with new entrants to the profession
Improving salaries and benefits to attract and retain skilled professionals
Launching targeted campaigns to recruit new nursing talent

Leaders from the four recipient organisations have expressed deep appreciation for this critical investment in the future of nursing.

Kenneth A. Samet, FACHE, president and CEO of MedStar Health, described the grant as an “extraordinary $5 million gift,” affirming that it underscores their commitment to preparing the next generation of nurses.

LynnMarie Verzino, DNP, senior vice president and chief nursing officer at MedStar Health, said the funding provides a vital opportunity to deeply support the nursing workforce.

While, Kevin W. Sowers, MSN, RN, FAAN, president of Johns Hopkins Health System, shared that the grant would help expand a virtual nursing platform to improve inpatient safety and enhance mentorship opportunities for new nurses.

This USD$20 million investment marks a crucial step in addressing the nursing workforce crisis in Baltimore, providing sustainable support to the skilled nursing community that is essential for quality healthcare delivery across the region.

GIANTS Announce 2025 Ladies Lunch Featuring Several Well-Known Guests

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by Courtney

The GWS GIANTS have announced the 2025 Ladies Lunch, which is sponsored by Harvey Norman, and will feature several esteemed guests as the club aims to deliver captivating narratives within women’s AFL.

This year’s event is set to take place at Crown Sydney and will be emceed by Melissa Doyle AM, a GIANTS director and the previous GIANTS Woman of the Year.

Among the guests will be Ariarne Titmus OAM, a two-time Olympian and four-time Olympic Gold Medalist, alongside Alyssa Healy, the Australian cricket captain and GIANTS Number One Ticket Holder.

The pair will engage in a discussion about their careers, highlighting the challenges and victories they have experienced in the sporting arena.

In recognition of 10 seasons since the inception of AFLW, attendees will also hear from key figures within the GIANTS and AFL.

AFL xxecutive general manager of football, Laura Kane, will join inaugural GIANT and current AFLW captain, Rebecca Beeson, as well as Samantha Waters, general manager sponsorship at Harvey Norman, to reflect on a decade of AFLW’s development and significance.

The 2025 GIANTS Ladies Lunch is scheduled for Friday, May 16, with every dollar raised throughout the day via various fundraising activities benefiting the GIANTS Foundation, ensuring that girls from Western Sydney, regional NSW, and the ACT have access to the GIANTS Academy.

Netball Queensland Launches Venue Naming Rights EOI

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by Courtney

Netball Queensland has announced a compelling opportunity for brands to secure the naming rights for the Queensland State Netball Centre, a significant venue in the realm of netball within the state.

Located at the Queensland Sport and Athletic Centre in Nathan, 12 minutes from Brisbane’s central business district, the facility boasts eight indoor hard courts, including a prominent 5,000-seat show court, along with a gymnasium and high-performance training resources.

Previously known as Nissan Arena since its opening in 2019, the venue is now seeking a new naming rights partnership set to commence on 1 January 2026.

Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to Netball Queensland to gain further insights and can express interest here until 30 May 2025, so the partnership can be announced in July.

Over its short history, the centre has attracted more than two million visitors and 428,000 attendees in 2024 alone, which was a 23% increase in visitation since 2022, thus ranking it among the top five most popular standalone Stadiums Queensland venues.

In addition to hosting the Queensland Firebirds, the centre accommodates a wide array of national, state, and local events, where it has successfully facilitated over 150 major sporting events within just seven years, many of which receiving national and international broadcasts.

Looking ahead, the venue’s versatility will shine as it hosts diverse events in 2025, including world championship boxing, ANZ Premier League darts, school graduations, the Australian Collectables Show, wheelchair AFL competitions, and martial arts events.

Netball Queensland have called this a distinctive opportunity for brands to align themselves with a high-profile venue at the heart of south-east Queensland’s sporting and entertainment scene, particularly as the region gears up for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.

Beyond its primary tenant, the Firebirds, Nissan Arena also hosted a range of seasonal and community events, including:

The SSN Grand Finals in 2020 and 2021, along with over 55 matches conducted during the SSN League’s COVID Hub.
The 2019 Australian National Netball Championships.
The 2019 FIVB Volleyball Men’s Nations League.
74 matches featuring the Brisbane Bullets in the NBL.
FIBA Asia Cup Basketball matches involving the Australian Boomers.
High-profile boxing events as part of the Foxtel Main Event series, including championship bouts.
The Oceania Taekwondo National Championships and the Australian Fencing Senior and Veteran Championships in 2024.

The venue routinely accommodates additional community sports and events, including netball, pickleball, table tennis, volleyball, futsal, martial arts, and more.

Additionally, to enhance fan experience, an external café upgrade aimed at boosting functionality and service offerings is set to open in mid-May 2025, signalling a continued commitment to improving visitor experiences.

Parramatta Eels Announce Footwear Partnership Focusing On Grassrots Programs

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Courtney

The Parramatta Eels have announced a significant new partnership with Oxen Sport, designating the brand as the Official Footwear Partner for the club over the next two years.

This collaboration will ensure that every player involved in the Parramatta Eels’ Elite Pathways program receives a pair of Oxen boots, providing access to premium footwear essential for their development within the sport.

Commenting on the partnership, Parramatta Eels CEO, Jim Sarantinos, said: “We’re excited to welcome Oxen into the Eels family. This partnership is about equipping our players with the tools they need to succeed.”

“Their support, especially for our Pathways programs, plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of Eels talent,” Sarantinos mentioned.

Oxen Sports CEO, Lee Jenkinson, added:”At Oxen Sports, we are passionate about empowering athletes to perform at their absolute best.”

“Our partnership with the Parramatta Eels and support of their Elite Pathways program aligns seamlessly with our dedication to providing high-performance footwear designed to enhance athletic excellence.

“We are proud to stand alongside the Eels as they cultivate the next generation of rugby league talent, and we look forward to making a meaningful and lasting contribution both on and off the field,” he said.

This partnership reinforces Oxen Sports’ increasing presence in the Australian market, emphasising its commitment to fostering athlete development across all levels.

As the Eels continue to cultivate fresh talent, the collaboration with Oxen provides essential support in shaping the future of rugby league.