Empowering Indigenous Excellence in Netball

Hello, my name is Sharon Finnan-White OAM. I am a proud descendant of the Dunghutti and Gumbaynggirr peoples and one of only three Aboriginal women to have had the privilege of representing Australia in the Diamonds Netball team. This journey was a remarkable achievement, but it came with unique challenges. Now, I'm on a mission to pave the way for the next generation of Indigenous netballers. I am determined to empower young Indigenous women, ensuring they have the same opportunities as everyone else in the pathway to excellence. I am doing this through the Sharon Finnan-White First Nations Academy of Excellence (FNAE), and I need your support to make a real difference in their lives.

My Story:

My netball journey has been a testament to resilience and determination. As an Aboriginal woman, I faced numerous obstacles along the way and understand the importance of representation and empowerment.

My path to the Australian Netball Diamonds was not easy, but it was rewarding. I am immensely proud of this achievement. However, I also recognize that my story is not just about personal success; it's about creating opportunities for others.

The Barriers for Indigenous Athletes:

Indigenous athletes face unique challenges in the netball system. These barriers include:

1. Racial Discrimination and Stereotyping: Indigenous athletes often encounter racial discrimination and stereotypes, particularly during selection trials. These biases can hinder their progress.

2. Unconscious Bias: Coaches and netball administrators may lack understanding when it comes to the barriers that Indigenous athletes and their families face, unintentionally creating disparities in opportunities.

3. Cultural Appropriateness: There is a scarcity of culturally appropriate programs and spaces within the netball environment for Indigenous athletes and communities. This lack of cultural sensitivity can make Indigenous athletes feel disconnected.

FNAE - Bridging the Gap:

The Sharon Finnan-White First Nations Academy of Excellence (FNAE) is my response to these barriers. FNAE aims to bridge the gap between grass roots representative levels and the high-performance netball pathway by providing:

1. Culturally Safe Programs: FNAE creates a supportive and culturally sensitive environment where Indigenous athletes can thrive without the fear of discrimination or misunderstanding.

2. On and Off-Court Development: Through involving Indigenous coaches, mentors and cultural leaders, we focus on developing on-court technical and tactical skills, strength and conditioning, leadership skills, personal and cultural growth and athlete education.

3. Preparation for High Performance: Our program equips young women with the confidence and competence to pursue selection into representative teams, preparing them for the rigorous high-performance pathway.

FNAE is not just a Netball Academy. We are actively contributing to the Australian government's Closing the Gap targets by providing First Nations female athletes with educational and employment opportunities, aligning with the national effort to reduce disparities and improve the health and well-being of Indigenous communities, thereby advancing the cause of reconciliation and inclusion in the country.

How You Can Make a Difference:

With your support, we can continue empowering young Indigenous women to achieve excellence in netball and life. Donations will help cover FNAE set up costs, athlete registration fees, equipment, travel, and accommodation for carnivals and interstate trips. We aim to break down the barriers that have held back Indigenous athletes for too long.

Join Us in Creating Change:

By contributing to our GoFundMe campaign, you are not only supporting FNAE but also empowering the next generation of Indigenous netball stars. Your donation will make a significant impact on their lives, allowing them to chase their dreams without limitations.

Let's make a real difference together. Join us in ensuring that young Indigenous women have the same opportunities as everyone else in the world of netball, education and employment. Support FNAE today!

With heartfelt thanks and gratitude :-)

Sharon