Sport
29 October, 2025
Local youth elected chair of the Netball NSW Youth Advisory Group
Sofia Novak from Mittagong Netball Club, part of the Southern Highlands Netball Association (SHNA), has been elected as the inaugural Chair of the Netball NSW Youth Advisory Group (YAG).
Sofia Novak from Mittagong Netball Club, part of the Southern Highlands Netball Association (SHNA), has been elected as the inaugural Chair of the Netball NSW Youth Advisory Group (YAG).
The YAG was established to give young people a voice in shaping the future of netball in New South Wales, empowering emerging leaders to share their ideas, experiences and perspectives on the issues that matter most to youth in the sport.
Novak was elected by her peers after nominees presented to the group and Netball NSW Chair Sallianne Faulkner, and outlined why they would make a strong YAG leader.
Also in attendance was Giants netball athlete Amy Sligar, who joined the group to show her support for the next generation of leaders in the game.
As part of her new role, Novak will be mentored by Sallianne Faulkner, who praised the group’s energy, creativity, and leadership potential.
“The passion and confidence shown by all members of the Youth Advisory Group was incredible,” said Ms. Faulkner.
“Sofia impressed us with her authenticity, her love for the game and her commitment to helping others grow through netball. I am thrilled to mentor her as she leads this inspiring group of young people.”
For Sofia, netball has always been about more than the scoreboard.
“Netball has given me a purpose — initially as a player, but particularly as a coach,” she said.
“I love being able to share my passion for the game and help my players grow, both on and off the court.”
She also credits the sport for shaping her resilience and leadership.
“Along my netball journey, there have been times I’ve been knocked down — literally and metaphorically — but the game has taught me how to bounce back and stay strong,” she said.
“I’ve been lucky to have incredible mentors like my club president Liz, who has shown me that sport is about fun, friendship and community first.”
Giants' netball midcourter Amy Sligar congratulated Sofia and the group on their leadership.
“It’s so inspiring to see young people like Sofia stepping up to help shape the future of our sport,” she said.
“Netball has given me so many opportunities, and I love seeing that same passion in the next generation of players, coaches and leaders.”
The Netball NSW Youth Advisory Group will meet throughout the year to provide input into youth engagement initiatives, community programs and strategies to grow participation across the state.
Read More: Mittagong, Southern Highlands