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Netball Australia makes HUGE changes to kits so players of ‘various religious beliefs’ don’t have to show as much skin on the pitch after AFLW and Wimbledon relaxed dress codes for female players
Netball Australia (NA) has unveiled plans to give players and referees more choice in what they wear on the pitch, in a bid to improve inclusion in the sport.
The governing body said on Tuesday that the new guidelines will take effect at the beginning of the year and will “recognize the diverse individual preferences and religious beliefs of netballers.”
Players will be able to choose between wearing a dress, t-shirt, bodysuit, short-sleeved or long-sleeved shirt, skirt, shorts, and long pants.
Netball Australia has unveiled significant kit changes that will come into effect next year.
In 2020, NA’s State of the Game Review found that current uniform options were viewed as a barrier by many who wanted to play or continue to play the sport.
The changes are aimed at boosting participation in the sport by following several of its counterparts in relaxing their dress code.
Earlier this month, the AFLW moved away from white shorts as part of game kits and Wimbledon dropped its strict all-white dress code requirements to combat issues like period shaming.
Test cricket and football have also implemented similar measures.
The current uniform consists of a short dress, but players will be able to choose what they want to wear from 2023
According to AFL research, young girls were particularly unlikely to take part in sports if they felt uncomfortable in their play equipment.
“Netball is constantly evolving and we need to reflect this in all aspects of our game, including kit choices,” said Glenn Turnor, NA’s executive general manager of strategy, government and community.
“We are excited to implement these inclusive uniform guidelines by 2023 and make sure everyone can feel comfortable playing netball.”
The AFLW has removed the white shorts from the game uniforms starting next year.
Wimbledon dropped its strict all-white dress code requirements
NA’s decision comes just over 12 months after Netball NSW submitted a kit review with the aim of improving inclusion and broadening the game’s appeal.
The body announced in October last year that the dresses will still be available for players who want to wear them, but the on-pitch apparel also includes jerseys, T-shirts, long-sleeved tops and shorts.
‘Netball Australia encourages all state and territory member organizations to embrace adaptability and flexibility around kits… [and] believes these changes will grow our game and everyone’s enjoyment,” NA executive director Kelly Ryan said at the time.