Netball Australia has announced Woolworths has extended its partnership to become the new naming rights partner of the grassroots netball program, NetSetGO.

The program, which is due to support its 600,000th young Australian participant in 2022, will see Woolworths continue helping young Australians participate in netball, with the brand also set to continue its grants as part of the Pick Fresh, Play Fresh initiative, with $1.1 million awarded to more than 285 netball clubs to date.

As part of the partnership, Woolworths will also continue as the official supermarket partner across Netball Australia, its member organisations, and their affiliated Suncorp Super Netball clubs for the next three years.

Netball Australia CEO, Kelly Ryan, said Woolworths’ support of community netball will help ensure more young Australians will stay active and live healthier lifestyles.

“We’re delighted to welcome Woolworths as the new naming rights partner of NetSetGO,” Ryan said.

“This is the perfect partnership to help inspire netballers as they start their journey with the sport through Woolworths NetSetGO.

“We look forward to working with Woolworths to bring this partnership to life and make it easier for more kids to eat well, be active, play netball and have fun,” she said.

Woolworths chief marketing officer, Andrew Hicks, said: “We’re thrilled to expand our partnership with Netball Australia with the aim to inspire current and future players to pick fresh and play fresh.”

“Whether it’s refuelling between quarters with freshly cut oranges or replenishing energy with bananas post-game, eating fresh and healthy food is essential for children to lead healthy and active lifestyles.

“As the biggest female team sport in Australia, we’re proud to support NetSetGO and look forward to the launch of the 2022 season,” Hicks said.