As a longstanding member of the Canberra netball community, I have witnessed first-hand how the recent elimination of netball grading in the North Canberra Netball Competition has led to a decrease in equal and fair competition. This decision has negatively impacted the experience of players, who are no longer able to compete at their own skill level. Instead, players of varying abilities are grouped together, diminishing the overall quality of the competition and hampering the players' ability to develop and improve their skills.

Community sports are vital for the health and cohesion of our neighborhoods, and netball has been a beloved sport in North Canberra for many years. Seeing this unfair change is deeply disheartening. A report from the Australian Sports Commission emphasizes that appropriate level competition is key to increasing participation rates in community sports (Australian Sports Commission, 2020). By eliminating the grading system in our community, we are moving away from this ideal and threatening the longevity of the sport in our area.

Therefore, we urge the organizers of the North Canberra Netball Competition to reconsider their decision and reinstate the grading system. Doing so would foster fairer competition, uphold the ethos of the game, and ensure a positive experience for all participants moving forward. Please sign this petition and support a fair game for all.