Netball New Zealand has today announced a new partnership with Woolworths New Zealand.
Last week, the supermarket announced an increased and ongoing commitment to New Zealand, including updated stores, a new rewards programme and a rename from Countdown to Woolworths New Zealand in 2024, which will become the naming rights partner of the popular futureFERNS.
FutureFERNS is the official national junior programme for Years one to eight designed to help grow the next generation of netball talent. Woolworths futureFERNS is a game designed to grow with the players and progresses through modified formats to meet the needs of players in each group.
As well as being the Principal Partner of the futureFERNS, Woolworths New Zealand will also hold an Official Partnership with the Silver Ferns, becoming the Official Supermarket of Netball New Zealand.
Woolworths New Zealand Managing Director, Spencer Sonn, said the supermarket's involvement with Woolworths futureFERNS was a perfect fit.
"We want to support the next generation of New Zealanders to thrive, and backing the youngest of our netball players is just one more way we can do this," said Sonn.
Sonn continued that the supermarket will become Woolworths New Zealand over the coming months. It has committed to delivering the best supermarket experiences for New Zealanders. Through its partnership with Netball New Zealand, it was proud to be playing its part in furthering one of New Zealand's most loved sports.
Woolworths New Zealand Director of Brand, Brid Drohan-Stewart, said the partnership would continue the focus on supporting the next generation to live healthier lives.
Netball New Zealand CEO Jennie Wyllie welcomed Woolworths New Zealand to the netball fold.
"The futureFERNS is a cornerstone to our young players getting their first taste of netball and developing their early skills," said Wyllie.
"To have Woolworths New Zealand on board and being involved with the programme is fantastic, and we look forward to a close association and what they will add."
Wyllie continued that as the Official Supermarket of the Silver Ferns and of Netball New Zealand, Woolworths will bring an exciting new element. With its family focus and broader community engagement through its stores across New Zealand, Netball New Zealand welcomed the unique collaboration and what they will add to netball.
