Two waste paper bins, one Olympic dream

NewsDebate newsroom brief · 1h ago · 1 min read · via bbc.co.uk

Derived from basketball and developed by teenagers in late-Victorian England, netball is sport's great misunderstood "girly game". It could be heading to the Olympics in 2032.

The potential inclusion of netball in the 2032 Olympics is a significant development for the sport, which has long been overlooked despite its rich history and global popularity. Netball originated in England in the late 19th century, derived from basketball, and was initially played by women, leading to its perception as a "girly game". However, the sport has evolved to become a fast-paced and physically demanding game played by millions of people around the world, with a strong following in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.

The Olympic bid is a major opportunity for netball to gain recognition and respect on the global stage, and to challenge its outdated image. The sport's governing body, the International Netball Federation, has been working to promote the game and increase its visibility, with a focus on developing new markets and improving competitiveness. The inclusion of netball in the Olympics would not only be a milestone for the sport but also provide a platform for female athletes to compete at the highest level and inspire a new generation of players.

As the bid process unfolds, it will be interesting to watch how netball's governing body and supporters work to promote the sport and build a case for its inclusion in the Olympics. The decision will depend on a range of factors, including the sport's global reach, competitiveness, and popularity, as well as its ability to attract new fans and spectators. With the 2032 Olympics still several years away, there is plenty of time for netball to build momentum and make its case for inclusion, and fans of the sport will be eagerly watching developments to see if their beloved game will finally get the recognition it deserves.

Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. NewsDebate adds analysis for general news readers.

Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. NewsDebate curates and briefs the general news stories that matter. Our editorial policy →
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