Wendouree Netball Association re-opened its doors this week, marking a big win for indoor sport in Ballarat.
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Age groups from 12 and up took the court at the Ballarat Sports and Events Centre on Wednesday evening. Games were held the following night as well, with 15-under and 17-under age groups getting in on the action.
Association manager Jordan O'Keefe said it was amazing to have netball back in Ballarat.
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"How everyone has adapted to the procedures in place to support everyone's safety has been fantastic," he said.
"We could not have asked for a better response from teams and clubs."
It was a new environment for players, who played under a raft of new rules. Teams waited outside the venue before being granted entry 10 minutes before game time. Once inside, social distancing was enforced until players reached their benches.
Spectators were seated on the other side of the court. Sanitise stations were on hand and special bio safety officers were appointed to wipe down equipment and direct people before and after matches.
Despite the challenges, O'Keefe said it all went seamlessly.
"It's a lot more work, but it is necessary work and everyone has been really receptive in what we have to do," he said.
"It means we are working longer but it's what we have to do to get netball up and running and we are pleased we've had the ability to do that."
The Wendouree Netball Association experienced a surge in participation numbers this season, after becoming one of the only places left to play netball in the region.
It followed the cancellation of the Ballarat and Central Highlands Football Netball Leagues due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
O'Keefe said the association was hosting a number of clubs which customarily play in other leagues.
"We've got Central Highlands playing against BFNL clubs which is really unique and it's gone really well," he said.
"Everyone has treated it like a privilege to get up and playing."
