Netball New Zealand Embraces Change with New Broadcast Deal

Netball New Zealand has secured a new broadcast agreement aimed at revitalizing the sport’s visibility, marking a significant shift in their media strategy. Chief Executive Jennie Wyllie acknowledged that this decision entails a calculated risk, as they transition back to TVNZ after years with Sky Sport, which had been their primary broadcasting partner since 2008. The move is expected to bring the ANZ Premiership back to free-to-air television for the first time in several years.

Following extensive negotiations, the terms of the new deal remain undisclosed, including how much TVNZ is paying for the rights. Reports indicate that Sky Sport offered considerably less than previous agreements, raising concerns about the financial implications for players. With negotiations for player contracts ongoing, there is speculation that salary adjustments may be necessary.

Wyllie expressed optimism about the potential for increased audience engagement. “Netball New Zealand is investing in this transition away from our traditional broadcast market,” she stated during an interview on Morning Report. She emphasized that the organization aims to attract commercial partners looking for broader reach, leveraging the sport’s strong participation base.

The landscape for women’s sports remains challenging, and Wyllie believes that innovation is essential for the future of netball. “We do need to step into the new and different,” she said. “It’s a bit of a risk, but netball has to innovate.” With limited support from large offshore partners or an international governing body, Wyllie sees this as an opportunity to take bold steps forward.

While questions linger regarding the deal’s capacity to attract sufficient sponsorship, Wyllie assured that Netball New Zealand is committed to maintaining a viable environment for its athletes. “We don’t want our women sportspeople to go backwards,” she remarked. The organization is working diligently to ensure that the financial impacts of the new broadcasting arrangement are minimized.

Many players already balance their sporting commitments with education and part-time jobs, given that the competition lasts only ten weeks. Wyllie noted, “This is the reality of what it is to be in a female sporting environment.” However, she remains hopeful that any financial rewards generated from the new deal will benefit the entire netball community.

In addition to the broadcast changes, Netball New Zealand confirmed that the National Netball League (NNL), a crucial development pathway for emerging talent, will continue. While the structure of the NNL remains to be defined, its presence is vital for nurturing future athletes. This year, eight NNL games were broadcast live on Sky Sports, showcasing the talent that feeds into the ANZ Premiership.

As Netball New Zealand embarks on this new chapter, the organization is focused on balancing the immediate financial challenges with long-term growth and sustainability for the sport.