The 17&U Division will become the fifth State League Division alongside the Division 1, Men's League, Division 2 and the 19&U Division. Netball ACT CEO Matthew Battams believes that the inclusion of the 17&U Division into the HCF State League is a significant step forward for netball in the Capital.
"Netball ACT and the State League Working Group consider this an important step to improve the netball pathway in Canberra and surrounding regions," Mr Battams said.
"This will not only provide opportunities for athletes, but importantly it will provide opportunities for coaches, umpires and bench officials.
"The HCF State League is already a competitive and strong competition. The inclusion of the 17&U Division will provide even greater opportunities for our netball community."
After extending their partnership with Netball Australia, HCF CEO Sheena Jack said HCF is excited to be a part of the 2022 ACT State league as naming rights partner for another year.
"This partnership means we can help empower players of all ages and stages in the ACT to lead healthier lives both on and off the court, and support and foster the sense of community that the game of netball creates," Ms Jack said.
"As Australia's largest not-for-profit health fund, we're proud to put the health of our members before anything else, and that includes finding new and meaningful ways to provide value and connection to the growing netball community.
"We congratulate NACT on the inclusion of the 17&U Division into the league, which will be a crucial step in promoting and nurturing the talent of young netballers and look forward to a successful season back on the court."
There will be more details to follow next year regarding the competition and its structure.
