Why Did Mayfield Netball Club Get Rejected for Tri Series Competition? What Happened Behind the Scenes?

The tension in the air was thick when Mayfield Netball Club submitted our Expression of Interest (EIO) for the highly anticipated Tri Series Competition at Newcastle Netball Association (NNA). As a club rooted in nurturing talent and sporting spirit, this competition represented an important opportunity for us. Our eagerness to embrace this challenge quickly turned into confusion and disappointment when we learned our acceptance had been revoked. Let's explore the unfolding events and the challenges we now face.

The Backstory

Initially, our EIO was accepted, filling our club with excitement. The Tri Series Competition serves as a prominent platform for clubs to showcase their skills and pursue growth. Our joy, however, was short-lived. Hours after our acceptance, NNA confirmed that our eligibility had become questionable.

In a meeting with NNA's management team, the Management committee advised us that we did not meet several criteria outlined in their Tri Series Competition Policy. Specifically, the policy required demonstrated success across various Division 1 grades, a strong base of junior players, and dedicated personnel to navigate the complex competition rules.

In the meeting we also pressed the need to revise the policy again as it was clearly rushed through some time between the Tri Series Commiittee meeting on the 19th of September and the 11th of October when the policy and EOI invite was released. NNA has agreed that it was a rushed policy and has its flaws.

Understanding the Criteria

Demonstrated Success in Division 1 Grades

To gain entry to the Tri Series, clubs must showcase past achievements in various age divisions, including senior, 21’s, 17’s, and 15’s. For example, clubs could provide metrics such as win-loss records or specific tournament placements to illustrate their competitive history. We found that the definition of success wasn't clear enough to warrant this criteria valid.

Apology from Newcastle Netball Association Inc.

We have received the below written apology from NNA regarding the handling of our application.

"Good evening Mayfield Netball Club,

Firstly, we would like to thank you for attending the meeting with our NNA Management Team on Sunday, to discuss your recent Tri Series Expression of Interest.

Unfortunately, as discussed, upon further assessment of your Tri Series Expression of Interest and after further consultation with our governing body Netball New South Wales, it was found that Mayfield Netball Club were not eligible to join the NNA Tri Series Competition for 2025 & 2026 as they did not meet the criteria, which was stated in the Tri Series Competition Policy – V7 & V6.

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Tri Series Competition Policy - V7

3.2.1 Clubs wanting to enter the Tri Series for the first time must meet the following criteria:

• Demonstrated success in Division1 grades in the NNA Winter Competition in Seniors, 21’s, 17’s and 15’s

• Demonstrated Club growth in junior base

• Dedicated personnel to assist in abiding by the Tri Series rules

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Tri Series Competition Policy – V6

As part of the EOI, all clubs are to show a junior development pathway, if not through their own Club, through an alignment with another Club/s.

We understand that this is a disappointing result for the players of Mayfield Netball Club that had hoped to continue their netball journey into the Tri Series competition. However, we would be more than happy to work with the club towards building and preparing in readiness for the next Tri Series Expression of Interest period for the 2027 & 2028 seasons.

NNA sincerely apologises for any inconvenience.

Regards

Sally Unicomb | NNA Secretary"