We believe that access to sport is something everyone deserves, regardless of ability. So when the opportunity came to expand our support for Lifely’s Netball for All program, it was an easy yes for us.
McKern Foundation has increased its sponsorship of the Netball for All initiative, which has now expanded from the adult teams to junior squads with students from Bendigo Special Development School (BSDS).
The Netball for All adult teams have been at the heart of the McKern Foundation and Lifely partnership from the beginning. The program supports adults living with disabilities to participate in netball in an inclusive environment, and the impact on players’ confidence, social connection, and wellbeing has been fantastic to see.
Our earlier support helped deliver new equipment and matching team uniforms for all players, so that they can feel like a team. Hearing from the athletes and families about what the equipment and uniforms meant to them was a reminder of why this work is so important.
With Lifely expanding the Netball for All program into the BSDS, it now brings inclusive sport to a new generation of young people.
Recently, the McKern visited the school while Lifely were there running the netball program and were given a tour of the school and the new gym. The school community is doing truly important work in our region, and seeing it in person was incredible.
Our support for the school’s new student teams includes additional equipment, such as handheld rings and hoops for skill development, along with updated matching uniforms to give the new team their own identity.
“Seeing the Netball for All program expand into the BSDS is something we couldn’t be prouder to be part of. Inclusive sport helps them build friendships and keep active too,” said Michael McKern, “Bendigo is a stronger community for having programs like this, and we look forward to watching it grow.”
BSDS has also now joined the Fresh Fruit Friday program, and now receives regular fruit through this initiative.
Thank you to the team at Lifely and BSDS for the opportunity to visit, and also for the incredible work you do. We’re proud to play our part in supporting it and recognise the importance of inclusive programs like this in our region.
If you’d like to support the McKern Foundation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to Michaela to find out how you can make a difference – Michaela.Crone@mckern.net.au.
