The netball development programme in schools is now taking shape.  This was made possible through the NetGO programme partnership initiative between Netball Fiji, Netball New Zealand and the Ministry of Education.

The first coaching session was conducted at John Wesley Primary School in Raiwai, Suva on Tuesday.

Former Fijian Pearls captain/coach, Una Rokoura, who is also the Pacific Sports in Partnership (Fiji) coordinator is vying to promote healthy living by increasing participation right from school level.

She was assisted by New Zealand Netball Pacific Sports in Partnership coordinator Ivan Harre who presented the NetGO kit to students. He also conducted the Oceania Coaching programme for teachers in schools and the Grade 1 and 2 Physical Education (P.E.) programme.

“We’re currently having two vital programmes being conducted under NetGO which is the Oceania coaching programme for teachers in schools and the grade 1 and 2 physical education programme,” the former national netball co-coach said.

“However, the grade 1 and 2 physical education programme is a trial initiative that will be carried out in four schools namely John Wesley Primary School, Holy Trinity Anglican School, Saint Agnes Primary School and Annesley pre-school.

“So, we visited John Wesley Primary School first on Tuesday which I felt was very productive as the students have shown keen interest to learn the sport.  We also noticed how useful this programme was, as previously there was no formal resource to guide the students during their P.E. classes in school.

“So, after the introduction of the programme the teachers and students have a fair idea on how to conduct the class. And our focus of conducting these programmes is to basically develop the fundamental netball skills of the students as our main is the grade 1 and 2 students.

“The reason why we chose grade 1 and 2 students is because we feel it is best that we begin enhancing the knowledge of the sport at a younger age, as the students will further grow and develop, progress over the years.” Rokoura said the programme is now part of the P.E. curriculum in schools as decided by the Ministry of Education.

“I believe it is a great opportunity for students as well as teachers to develop their netball skills and at the same time promote healthy lifestyle within individuals. The NetGO team is also planning to conduct an evaluation in those four schools then expand the trial programmes in more schools around the country.”

Meanwhile, a workshop will be conducted among district club coaches in Lautoka on February 23-24.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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