Adelaide Thunderbirds defender Matilda Garrett has been named ambassador for the SAASTA Aboriginal Netball Academy (ANA).
The ANA is a product of Netball SA’s partnership with the South Australian Aboriginal Secondary Training Academy (SAASTA) and currently has 21 athletes within the program.
Garrett’s role as ambassador will help strengthen the link between the ANA and the Adelaide Thunderbirds and inspire the ANA athletes to pursue their netball dreams through the development pathways.
“It is so important to have a strong pathway and connection between the ANA students and the Adelaide Thunderbirds,” Garrett said.
“We want to provide a platform where we can help young aspiring women to reach their own personal best and achieve their netball dreams.
“This academy is a great way to help get more Indigenous players working their way through the SA Netball Pathway, which played a big part in my decision to become the ambassador.”
In addition to assisting the ANA athletes, Garrett said her ambassadorship also presented an opportunity for her and her teammates to gain a deeper understanding of Australia’s First Nations peoples and cultures.
Garrett will attend sessions with the ANA throughout the year to assist the students in their netball development.
“I have already had the pleasure of meeting the students and their energy is infectious, we’re going to have a fun year together,” Garrett said.
“I was very humbled by this opportunity - it gives me the chance to coach some talented young athletes and get to know the girls individually.”
To learn more about the SAASTA ANA program, click here.
