Eastern Region holds mixed netball tournament

HMS Nelson hosted the second Royal Navy Eastern Region mixed netball tournament on Wednesday 15th February. HMS Collingwood, HMS Sultan, 1710 Squadron and HMS Nelson went head-to-head in the light-hearted but extremely competitive event.

The teams were made up of players from a variety of backgrounds and abilities, some having never stepped foot on a netball court before. 

The more experienced players like AB Ellie Woodward from HMS Sultan encouraged an inclusive and positive environment for those new to the game, playing competitively for their team but also helping players new to the game with their technique. 

AB Raijieli Uluinaceva from HMS Nelson was running from the moment she stepped on the court and showed great potential as a future player for a Royal Navy mixed netball team. 

PO Dave Heming organised the day and is keen to establish Royal Navy mixed netball teams to compete in inter-regional and inter-service tournaments, especially as the Army and RAF already have recognised teams. 

He said, “We want to highlight netball as an inclusive sport for all and eliminate any gender stereotype that some people might have around the sport.” 

AB Dennis from HMS Collingwood, a keen basketball player, scored multiple goals and commented how much he had enjoyed netball having never tried the sport until now. 

1710 Squadron’s AB Ash Laing, another brand-new player, performed outstandingly in defence and was approached to consider playing Royal Navy men’s netball. 

The RN Netball Association is aspiring to establish a Royal Navy Mixed team by the end of the year and a full men’s squad by the end of 2024. 

The next mixed Eastern Region netball tournament will be held in April and intentions are for Western and Northern Regions to do the same providing more opportunities across the Service for those looking to get involved in netball.