Ruby, Ormlie, Isla and Giorgia (from left) are four out of 212 young netball talents sponsored by EIT.

Four years ago EIT started to sponsor the Hawke’s Bay netball talent development programme. At the moment there are 212 female netball players who are part of the programme.

“The EIT sponsorship has given our programme mana to be able to provide skills to over 850 netball players over the past four years,” says development manager, Denise Aiolupotea. “This programme has grown each year and we hope with continued sponsorship we can provide the programme for years to come.”

Lee-Anne Taylor, Assistant Head of School of Health and Sport Science, says, “The sponsorship is a benefit to both EIT and the School of Health and Sport Science, in that we are supporting the development of female athletes within our region.”

Lee-Anne also carried out a three-year research project within the netball talent development programme. She developed the six week programme based on other research from different sports that have been found to improve athletic performance and reduce injuries.  She was testing the athletes before and after the programme and then monitored them throughout the season for any injuries.

“The EIT talent development programme has been a key part of success of Hawke’s Bay netball. It has contributed to them winning Sport Organisation of the Year at the Hawke’s Bay Sport Awards five years in a row,” says Denise.