BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) is helping talented young netball players in the regions chase their sporting dreams.

The Queensland coal mining heavyweight has been announced as foundation partner for the Queensland Firebirds Futures Academy (QFFA).

The QFFA supports athletes who are Nationally Categorised or selected in Queensland’s 17/U and 19/U squads for the National Netball Championships, as well as the Firebirds Futures team in Super Netball Reserves.

Established in south-east Queensland and now with regional branches in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay and Rockhampton, the QFFA allows talented players to develop within their hometowns.

Rockhampton product and Firebird Isabelle Shearer has experienced the challenges of pursuing an elite sporting career as a regional athlete.

“I look forward to seeing more athletes like me coming from this area and hopefully they’ll get the chance to wear the Firebirds dress as well one day,” she said.

BMA asset president Adam Lancey said the win-win partnership brought benefits beyond the netball courts and the mine gates.

 “Netball Queensland and the Queensland Firebirds share our aspiration to keep people living and working in regional Queensland,” he said.

 “Like us they want to contribute to the liveability and vibrancy of the regions with sports participation playing an important role in the sense of community. Through this partnership we will support thriving communities and support regional growth and jobs.”

The partnership will include a minimum of two community netball clinics in strategic regional locations each year as well as coach and umpire workshops promoted and facilitated by Netball Queensland.

BMA will also proudly feature on the Queensland Firebirds and Firebirds Futures dresses, signifying their official partnership with Netball Queensland and the Firebirds.

“As one of the major employers in regional Queensland, having BMA on board as foundation partner for the QFFA is a win-win,” Netball Queensland and Queensland Firebirds chief executive officer Kate Davies said.

“Not only will this partnership further strengthen the QFFA, particularly in its regional operations, and ensure the continued growth of netball pathways in Queensland but it offers our young athletes a great chance to explore professional career opportunities within their own community.

“This is an exciting collaboration which will ensure up-and-coming talent across the state is getting the best opportunities both on and off the court to realise their full potential.”

Image at top of page: Firebirds Lara Dunkley and Isabelle Shearer pictured at BMA’s Hay Point Coal Terminal. Photo by Luke Marsden.