Newcastle Netball launches 2024 Greater Bank Series

Player movement and off-season shake-ups have laid the groundwork for an exciting Greater Bank Series this year at Newcastle Netball Association's 2024 season.

Now in its 5^th season, the 2024 series introduces Norths Netball Club to the competition following the departure of the University of Newcastle with signings that Newcastle Netball Association (NNA) President Cheryl Hernando said are sure to challenge the recent dominance of West Leagues Netball Club.

“Norths have made some exciting signings like Premier League goal shooter Imogen McCulloch and NSW u17s representative Ellie Stacey, so I can’t wait to see what they put out on court,” Hernando said.

“I don’t think anything is a given in this competition, which is what makes it so thrilling.”

With each club fielding a team in the Championship, Opens and Under 23s divisions, the competition also provides a top level pathway experience for junior talent, which McCulloch said has been wonderful for player development.

“That top division is something many of our young players aspire to, but it can be a big step up so the staged pathway the Greater Bank Series provides has been fantastic for building their skills and confidence,” McCulloch said.

“As an experienced player it’s awesome watching those younger ones learn and grow in the pathway, then get out on court and do a fantastic job.”

Meanwhile, Greater Bank has again signed on as the major sponsor extending its Tri Series partnership to five years and NNA support to over 30.

“Greater Bank’s support of Newcastle Netball Association now spans more than three decades, with this year’s naming rights sponsorship playing a pivotal role in player and pathway development,” Hernando said.

“We are grateful to have Greater Bank back on board as the major sponsor of this competition.”

Senior Community Engagement Manager Ingrid Kaczor said that Greater Bank was thrilled to keep backing netball.

“We love our netball at Greater Bank, which is why we also support almost two dozen grassroots, social and pathway competitions,” Ms Kaczor said.

“Newcastle Netball Association is our longest running community partnership, and it’s fantastic to see the Greater Bank Series reach new heights with what is sure to be another thrilling season.”

The Greater Bank Series commences on 6 April, with Nova facing West Leagues, Norths taking on Souths, Kotara South coming up against BNC, and Junction battling Waratah.