Netball America Takes a Shot at Madison Square Garden and LA’s Staples Center

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Netball America partners with NBA and WNBA to raise the sport's profile in the US

(February 3, 2010 – Los Angeles, CA) - Netball America announced today some of the nations top players will showcase the sport in front of an estimated 17,000 NBA fans at the Staples Center in Los Angeles April 4th. In addition, an estimated crowd of 14,000 will be exposed to Netball for the first time during an WNBA game at Madison Square Garden in New York May 16th.

(February 3, 2010 – Los Angeles, CA) - Netball America announced today some of the nations top players will showcase the sport in front of an estimated 17,000 NBA fans at the Staples Center in Los Angeles April 4th. In addition, an estimated crowd of 14,000 will be exposed to Netball for the first time during an WNBA game at Madison Square Garden in New York May 16th.

Netball is played by more than 20 million people in over 80 countries, yet it remains relatively unknown in America. That is all about to change as Netball America shines the spotlight on some of the country's top Netball players to demonstrate how the game is played, recruit American players, and raise the profile of Netball in America before, during and after the NBA and WNBA basketball games. Tickets to the events are available for purchase at www.netballamerica.com.

“Netball America is proud to partner with NY Liberty and the LA Clippers to increase awareness of the sport, demonstrate the game to basketball fans and recruit American's to the sport,” said Sonya Ottaway, President of Netball America Inc. “We’re hoping to encourage Americans to learn more about the sport and we’re sure after seeing the speed, agility and team work displayed they’ll fall in love with it like we have.”

Netball is widely popular in countries such as England, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and the Caribbean and is gaining exposure in the United States with regulation Netball courts scattered throughout the USA. Sonya explains, “With our new Youth Enrichment Program, social networking and events such as the exhibition games, the sport is growing quickly throughout the USA. Netball America offers its members the ability to participate or volunteer at these great exhibition events and we welcome further inquiries and new members at info@netballamerica.com.”

Netball is similar to basketball although there is no dribbling, the ball and basket are slightly smaller, there is no backboard and players are designated to certain areas of the court. The game is fast, fun and can be played by women, men, boys and girls of all ages, sizes and skill levels. Netball is recognized by the International Olympic Committee and a strong push is underway for its inclusion as a participation sport.

Los Angeles, Sunday April 4th – Staples Center
5:45 - 6:10 pm Netball demonstration
6:30pm: LA Clippers V's NY Knicks
8:30 – 9:30 pm: Netball Game

New York, Sunday May 16th – Madison Square Garden
11:00 – 1:00 pm Netball Game
3:30 - 3:40 pm Netball demonstration
4:00 pm: NY Liberty V's Chicago Sky

Tickets for both events are available at www.netballamerica.com.

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About Netball America Inc.

Netball America is a not-for-profit (501c(3)) association committed to the promotion of Netball throughout the United States. Netball America currently has members located in 17 states across the country and is dedicated to the development and growth of Netball in the USA with an emphasis on participation, individual progress, team unity, good health and education of youth. Netball America seeks to have Netball included into the core curriculum of educational systems throughout the USA.

Media Contact: Lisa Gregory
info@netballamerica.com
310.689.8162