The Adelaide Thunderbirds will debut their inaugural Inclusive Uniform at the pre-season Team Girls Cup (TGC) tournament on the Gold Coast later this month.
The uniform, designed and created by the club’s apparel partner Valour Sport, marks a historic step in the club’s journey to ensuring netball in South Australia is inclusive, diverse, and a sport for all.
In their opening match of TGC, the side will wear their singlet and tights combination as they take on the Queensland Firebirds, who will also be in their inaugural Inclusive Uniform designed by Valour.
“We’re proud to be wearing our Inclusive Uniform at TGC this weekend and are grateful to Valour for bringing this to life for us,” Thunderbirds athlete Matilda Garrett said.
“We’ve started to see clubs across South Australia champion this in recent years and for us, it was time we showcased this key piece of inclusivity in our game at the elite level.
“Representation is powerful, and it is paramount for young netballers of all genders, abilities, and cultural backgrounds to see professional athletes leading the way.”
Netball SA CEO Bronwyn Klei said the organization was passionate about showcasing netball as a sport for all.
“Netball is a place for everyone, and uniform should not be a barrier for people to join and thrive in our game," Ms Klei said.
“At Netball SA, we’re strong believers in you have to see it to achieve it and spotlighting our elite athletes wearing their Inclusive Uniform is a key part of this message.
“The introduction of our Inclusive Uniform policy is another significant step in ensuring netball is a safe place for all, from grassroots through to the elite.”
The uniform was driven by a shared passion between the club and Valour for championing inclusivity in netball and beyond.
“We are thrilled to have partnered with the Adelaide Thunderbirds to create their inaugural Inclusive Uniform,” Valour Director Matthew Knight said.
“At Valour, we believe in the power of sport to create positive change and promote inclusivity.
“We are proud to work with a team that shares our values and commitment to making the sport more accessible to everyone.
“This uniform symbolises the Thunderbirds' commitment to making netball a sport for all and inspires other clubs and organizations to follow suit. “
The Thunderbirds will take on the Firebirds from 7pm AEST on Friday, February 24 at the Gold Coast Sport and Leisure Centre. Full TGC fixture below.
All matches will be broadcast live and ad-break free on Fox Sports, available on Foxtel and Kayo Freebies.
