Following its successful debut rally last September, Venus Netball Club is keeping the momentum alive. Next month, it will launch a new initiative that expands their reach across districts throughout Cayman.
Its newest initiative, the ‘District Netball Tournament’, will begin on 25 April, featuring a diverse lineup of divisions, including under-14, under-21, adult women, male, and mixed categories.
The competition will travel through several districts before reaching its peak with the finals at the Truman Bodden Netball Court.
The Club confirmed that following positive feedback during the planning stages, updates have been made to registration criteria allowing players to represent either their district or their netball club.
Districts and clubs may enter multiple teams across all categories. Each team is limited to 12 registered players, with every division accommodating between eight and 12 teams.
Bob McBean, founder and manager of the club, said, “The primary goal of this tournament is to provide players with an opportunity to compete, improve their skills, and represent their districts [and clubs] in a positive and competitive environment.
“It helps develop teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship among the players while also identifying talented athletes who can continue to progress in the sport [through the various youth and senior programmes],” he added.
The tournament will utilise a traditional match format rather than the shortened ‘Fast5’ style, adhering to standard netball rules and full match structures.
“This format allows teams to fully showcase their skills, strategy and teamwork throughout the competition. Unlike shortened or ‘Fast5’ style games, matches will run at the regular length, providing a more authentic and structured tournament experience,” McBean said.
Hosting at district netball courts
A key strategic element of the 2026 tournament is the decision to host matches at district netball courts rather than a centralised court.
“Hosting the tournament at the district netball courts instead of a central national stadium was a very deliberate decision aimed at strengthening community engagement and making the sport more accessible,” said McBean.
“By bringing the event directly into the districts, we’re able to connect the game with the communities that actively support and develop netball at the grassroots level. It also helps highlight the importance of district facilities and the role they play in nurturing talent. When young players see high-level competition happening on the same courts where they train and play, it can be incredibly inspiring and motivating.”
Overall, he said the strategy is about “decentralising the sport, strengthening community ownership of the game and ensuring that the excitement and benefits of the tournament reach more people across the districts rather than being confined to a single central venue.”
Male and mixed categories
Furthermore, McBean said the inclusion of male and mixed categories has seen a positive response during the registration period.
“Since opening registration to male and mixed teams alongside the traditional categories, we’ve seen strong interest from male players who are excited about the opportunity to be part of the event.
“Many teams appreciate the inclusive format because it allows more people in the community to get involved, compete and support the growth of the sport,” he added.
Related Videos
