Old Paradians Football Club and Heat Netball Club have announced a new partnership between their respective clubs.
The partnership will initially be a social one that aims to strengthen and diversify their respective communities for many years.
Heat Netball Club president Renee Fitzgerald says she’s thrilled about the new partnership with the Old Paradians.
“This collaboration between the two clubs will help unify two traditionally distinct sporting codes and bring fresh energy to both sporting communities,” Fitzgerald said.
“By working together we will be able to more effectively share resources, attract a more diverse player and supporter base, and help drive joint club initiatives.”
Fitzgerald says she’s particularly excited about the introduction of new initiatives that will benefit both clubs such as social events, training opportunities and community programs.
“Overall, we see this partnership expanding the potential of both clubs and creating lasting social and community connections that goes well beyond the game.”
Old Paradians Football Club president Simon Vincent says the Raiders community is equally as excited about the new partnership.
“When we made the bold move to join the NFNL one of our objectives was to regain our relevance and become a destination club for players and their families,” Vincent said.
“This announcement is a significant step in that direction and we look forward to building upon it in the future.”
Northern Football Netball League (NFNL) CEO Martin Stillman says the league is proud to support the exciting partnership between the Old Paradians and Heat clubs.
“This collaboration represents a significant step forward in line with the NFNL’s strategic vision – bringing together football and netball clubs to form unified, community-focused entities wherever possible,” Stillman said.
“The league has been working closely with both clubs to facilitate this alignment, and we are thrilled to see it come to fruition.”
“The NFNL firmly believes that this partnership will be both strong and mutually beneficial, fostering a sense of unity, shared values, and long-term success for both the Old Paradians and Heat communities”.
“We commend both clubs for their forward-thinking approach and commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable future within the NFNL”.
The Raiders currently field three sides in the senior men’s competition. Its seniors and reserves currently competing in MC Labour Division 2 after the seniors won the Heidelberg Golf Club Division 3 premiership last year in the clubs first season with the NFNL.
Heat on the other hand continue to go from strength to strength and are currently fielding seven sides in the senior winter netball competition, which includes three in the Premier Divisions.
