SPORT builds not only healthy bodies and minds but also strong communities.
Putting the final touch on an initiative for girls from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Melbourne Vixens netballers Elissa Macleod and Geva Mentor turned out for a schools tournament at Taylors Hill last week.
Netball Victoria’s Friendly Schools Program began six weeks ago, with girls from six primary schools learning how to play and attending classes on body image, healthy eating, teamwork and writing.
More than 350 pupils from Deer Park North, Stevensville, Albanvale, Cairnlea, Deer Park West and Movelle primary schools took part. Movelle took out the A grade trophy, while Stevensville dominated the B grade contest.
“My favourite thing about the netball program was that it went for so long and we got to learn all the rules,” Fatima, 11, said.
“I like playing netball; it’s fun and I get to make new friends,” added Annabel, 10. For Nilay, 11, meeting the Vixens was best.
Netball Victoria spokeswoman Cassandra Hadson said the organisation would extend its schools programs in the north-west next year.
