ABOUT US
Who We Are
A dynamic and culturally vibrant not-for-profit Aboriginal netball club , dedicated to promoting health, community spirit, and excellence in sport. We offer a supportive environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls can develop their netball skills, engage in competitive play, and celebrate their cultural heritage. Through a blend of traditional values and modern athletic training, our programs foster teamwork, leadership, and personal growth, while strengthening connections within our community.
Founded in 2019 with a spirit deeply rooted ancestral legacy of resilience and community. Inspired by the remarkable journey, remembrance, resilience and recognition of their Father Mr Thomas Hill Dec., Great-Great-Grandmother, Mrs Muriel Stewart (Cooley) Dec. , the first Aboriginal Woman Justice of the Peace in New South Wales and Kinchela Boys Home Stolen Generations Survivor, their Grand Father Mr Jesse Barker (Par) Dec, Wiradjuri and Yuin Sisters, Sallie-Ann and Emilie Barker, have embarked on a mission to foster and provide resilience, cultural awareness education, empowerment and strength through sport.
Drawing strength from their grand parents legacy, who in their own right, defied societal barriers and hardships to pave the way for future generations, unwavering commitment to justice and equality for our First Nations People in NSW, they both serve as the cornerstone of the club's ethos. Sallie-Ann and Emilie are dedicated to creating a supportive environment where Aboriginal girls can thrive both on and off the netball court.
Driven by passion, patience and perseverance for both First Nations culture and education through the fantastic sport of Netball, they aim to instill the same resilience and determination that courses through their veins.
What We Do
What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. We prioritise teamwork, respect, and fair play, creating a fun culture where every member feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. From friendly social games to competitive league matches, we offer opportunities for everyone to participate and thrive in the sport they love. We believe in the power of sport to inspire, empower, and bring people together. Whether you're a seasoned player or just discovering the joys of netball, there's a place for you here. Our club is a vibrant hub where players of all ages and skill levels come together to learn, grow, and excel both on and off the court.
Our Vision
Our club is more than just about the game. It's about building lifelong friendships, creating unforgettable memories, and embracing the spirit of community. Working with Indigenous and Non Indigenous people, through education, our various events, social gatherings, and volunteer initiatives, we aim to strengthen bonds both within our club and with the broader netball community. So whether you're looking to improve your skills, stay active, or simply connect with like-minded individuals, come join us at The Minhi's Netball Club.
Together, let's embrace the joy of netball and write the next chapter of our club's inspiring journey!
Our Mission
Our mission for the club is to promote a safe, fun, inclusive environment that supports all players to reach their potential and that we provide a positive netball experience for all. Adapting a certain training skill and development through dedication and management practices. As well as playing netball, our focus is on making healthier choices for our Mob, promoting mental health tools and growing confidence for all players.
Our club philosophy is what makes the club who it is today.
We pride ourselves on 3 pillar principals:
Passion - This has been shown to be the biggest predictor of success and it will be key to reaching both your athletic goals as well as any other goals you set in your lifetime. Passion is an extension of Mental Toughness. This is a skill that we develop in the girls throughout the netball season and off-season so that they develop persistence overtime by training specific pathways in your brain so that they never give up on their goals and dreams.
Perseverance - This is the mental strength necessary to continue striving for person’s goals in the face of obstacles and setbacks. This sort of perseverance requires dedication, focus, and patience. Players face losses and hard times in games and go through difficult situations outside of netball that may affect their netball experience. However, as a club that
supports one another, and builds each other up as a team we find this skill as an opportunity to learn, grow or improve the individual’s situation so we can reach the main goal.
Patience - Mental health plays a huge role in our daily lives and anger and stress are two vital emotions that often occur in any sport including Netball. Patience is an important tool to teach our coaches, players and volunteers so that they overcome frustration on the court and in everyday life. Patience allows us to suspend judgement long enough to make informed decisions. This is a skill that can be learned and practiced, and it is a result of choosing to emphasize thinking over feeling.
By having this philosophy at the base of our club, we are able to continue to cultivate a strong, respected, unified club that is competitive and successful on court while being a supportive network off court.
MEET THE TEAM
Emilie Barker
Co Founder
President
Competitions Coordinator
Mental Health First Aid Officer
Sallie-Ann Barker
Co Founder
Head Coach
Indigenous Communities Pathways Officer
Umpire Coordinator
Fakataha
Fundraising Coordinator
Revenue Officer
Aunty Jessica
Communications Manager
Diane Utatao
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Consultant