(Reuters) – The dispute over player pay in Australia’s Super Netball league has come to an end with an announcement of a new three-year deal between Netball Australia (NA) and the Australian Netball Players Association (ANPA).
The Collective Player Agreement (CPA) revealed on Wednesday outlines an 11% increase in base salaries for players over the course of three years, as well as a 20% revenue share for players above a specified sponsorship forecast, among other enhanced benefits.
In addition, players will also receive back pay to Oct 1, according to a joint statement from NA and ANPA.
The deal, which was tentatively agreed upon earlier this month, follows the resignation of former CEO Kelly Ryan, who stepped down after a turbulent two-year period for NA, marked by financial difficulties and the threat of losing government funding.
“The new revenue sharing arrangement with the players marks a significant moment for the sport and will pave the way for success in netball, ensuring financial stability for the game,” said interim CEO Stacey West.
“This is a historic day for netball players and the sport as a whole,” said ANPA chief executive Kathryn Harby-Williams.
“The operating model for netball has improved, particularly at a time when there is fierce competition for talented female athletes, many of whom have come through the netball ranks,” Harby-Williams added.
Australia is a dominant force in netball, holding the number one ranking in the world with 12 world titles. Super Netball, known as the premier league in the sport, kicks off the signing window for its 2024 season on Wednesday.
(Reporting by Chiranjit Ojha in Bengaluru; Editing by Michael Perry)
