Three thousand rising netball stars will converge on the Sunshine Coast from this weekend.
Sunshine Coast Council’s Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex will host the 2025 Junior State Age Championships, with double that number, including umpires, officials, spectators, boosting the local economy from July 5 to 8.
Sunshine Coast Resilient Economy Portfolio Councillor Joe Natoli said the event was expected to be the largest state Age competition to date, attracting 6000 visitors to the region, delivering a significant boost to local tourism and hospitality.
“Events like Junior State Age Championships help deliver the Sunshine Coast Council’s Major Events Strategy, which aims to bring in $86 million of economic benefit to the region through visitation and local spend,” Cr Natoli said.
“It’s fantastic to see our region hosting such a vibrant and inclusive event that supports youth sport and showcases the Sunshine Coast as a premier sporting destination.”
He said the 2025 Championships would feature 3000 players aged 12 to 14 years, representing 180 teams from more than 55 Associations.
“(There will be) a packed schedule of matches, with players, families and fans enjoying the region’s world-class facilities and coastal lifestyle between games.”
Cr Natoli said the event also included live streaming, merchandise and community activations to enhance the carnival atmosphere.
Netball Queensland Chief Executive Officer Kate Davies said the Junior State Age Championships were a highlight on the netball calendar.
“This event is about all netball associations from right across Queensland coming together to enjoy great competition and build life-long connections and friendships through netball,” Ms Davies said.
“It’s a celebration of grassroots netball and the incredible community that supports it.”
Fixture details can be found on the Netball Queensland website.
