NETFIT Netball Announces Emily Higgins as New Inclusion & Belonging Lead

NETFIT Netball is proud to announce the appointment of Emily Higgins as the organisation’s inaugural Inclusion & Belonging Lead — a significant step in strengthening NETFIT’s commitment to inclusion, accessibility and connection across every level of the game.

In this newly created role, Emily will champion NETFIT’s mission of energy, innovation, inclusion and connection by leading the delivery of safe, engaging and inclusive netball programs nationwide. From school holiday clinics and Upskill sessions to club workshops and NETFIT Tours, Emily will play a pivotal role in ensuring every participant feels welcomed, supported and empowered — both on and off the court.

“At NETFIT, safety always comes first, followed by the enjoyment and entertainment that make every session unforgettable,” said NETFIT Founder Sarah Wall. “The time is now to invest in the growth of netball — ensuring every person, regardless of background or ability, can find their place in the sport we love. Emily is a leader who embodies this mission in every space she enters.”

A key focus for Emily will be guiding the integration of NETFIT’s Positive Learning Model, ensuring all programs nurture both skill development and mindset growth. At NETFIT, how we play is just as important as what we play.

Introducing Emily Higgins

Emily brings a powerful blend of experience, leadership and lived commitment to inclusive sport and community development.

Most recently, she developed and launched the Bayside All Abilities Netball Program, a groundbreaking initiative that has significantly expanded access to netball for people with disabilities. Her work also led to the creation of Australia’s first coaching resource designed specifically for All Abilities netball, cementing her status as a national leader in inclusive program design.

Emily’s broader experience across philanthropy, social impact and community engagement includes:

• Non-Executive Director — The Dylan Alcott Foundation, supporting opportunities for young Australians living with disability

• Owner & Founder — Empathy Pilates, a movement space championing accessibility, empowerment and wellbeing

• Event Manager — Sacred Heart Mission, delivering major community events that support social inclusion

Across all her work, Emily is driven by a shared purpose: celebrating people’s strengths, honouring individuality and breaking down barriers to participation.

A Collective Vision for Impact

Working alongside NETFIT, Emily will help drive a national movement to create pathways that are inclusive, joyful and empowering for all.

Together, NETFIT and Emily share a clear and ambitious goal:
To bridge the gap between mainstream netball and All Abilities netball — celebrating every participant’s superpowers, not fixing a “problem”.

“I firmly believe there is a meaningful and welcoming place for everyone in netball, and I’m genuinely excited to broaden opportunities and deepen understanding so more people can experience a true sense of belonging,” Emily said. “By learning from one another, we can bridge the gap between All Abilities and Elite players and continue progressing toward becoming the most inclusive sport.

Reflecting NETFIT’s global vision, the organisation remains committed to creating opportunities, innovating fearlessly and growing netball so players of all backgrounds and abilities can build confidence through the game.

We’re thrilled to welcome Emily to the NETFIT family and can’t wait for the impact ahead as we work together to grow, innovate and champion a more inclusive future for our netball community