For the fir
st time in their 40-plus year history, the River Murray Netball Association representative teams will play their 2026 carnivals for free.
This is a major milestone for the sport and comes off the back of its biggest private sponsorship investment on record, securing a three-year deal to cover the costs of more than 50 of the RMNA’s best junior netball players.
Initiated by RMNA Representative Committee leaders and local businesses passionate about raising the value and parity for girls in sport – this ensures netball has a stronger future in the region, alleviating cost barriers associated with playing at a higher level.
Until now, RMNA representative players have each paid up to $200 in fees (plus other costs), to take part in seasonal representative competitions.
However, thanks to the investment from Commshake Media & Engagement, the Murray Bridge Community Club and Murray Computers – all junior players will now be able to participate for free.
RMNA President Emma Swan said this was a monumental opportunity for the sport to grow and develop in the region and raised the value of netball long-term.
“This is amazing news for the River Murray Netball Association, and especially those young players who want to compete at a higher level,” Swan says.
“In recent decades, we’ve seen major investment into sports such as football and soccer, but netball has been left behind – even though it’s Australia’s number-one sport for female participation. This investment starts to change that.
“Netball deserves investment, and we’re grateful to Commshake Media & Engagement, Murray Computers and the Murray Bridge Community Club for making this happen.
“We also need to acknowledge the ongoing support of Daish Irrigation & Fodder – our overarching RMNA Platinum Sponsor. With all of this generous business support, netball is having its moment in our region, and its biggest cash investment on record.”
Commshake Media & Engagement owner and director Courtney Blacker has spent years advocating for investment into female sport, and so as part of celebrating her 10 years in business, decided this sponsorship was the right fit.
“Commshake has spent the last 10 years working for our region, helping bring attention to our greatest news, tourism assets, developments and people. Now we’re expanding this investment over three years into netball – and more specifically into female dominated sport,” Blacker says.
“It’s been a lifelong frustration of mine that netball, the most played sport of women and girls in Australia, is so remarkably underfunded and undervalued. Now, through my business and with the support of my team at Commshake, we’re putting our money where my mouth is and making sure these kids can play at a higher level, without the financial stress on their families.
“Not only this, but with 1000-plus players in our region alone, netball is a smart business investment. My clients, stakeholders and personal life are in SA’s regions – so by Commshake investing in the wellbeing of kids and families here, I expect the returns to be immeasurable.”
This sponsorship will cover the costs of all player fees including uniforms, carnival registration, equipment and more.
RMNA Representative Committee leaders and sponsors will make the announcement to families and players on Monday night at their training in Tailem Bend.
