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Netballers prove age is no barrier at Aware Super Social Masters

19 October 2026

 

More than 700 netballers from across Australia have descended on Wollongong for the Aware Super Social Masters, proving that you're never too old to pull on a bib, hit the court and have fun.

Aware Super Social Masters

Key facts:

  • 700+ netballers have gathered in Wollongong for the social netball competition
  • 75+ teams across open, over 35s and over 40s divisions
  • The event showcases inspiring stories of active ageing, friendship and lifelong participation in sport
  • Players include members of the Six Over Sixty (SOS) team pictured, who won the over 45s purple division

Among the winners was Sydney’s Six Over Sixty (SOS) Netball Team, who took out the Over 40s Purple Division, capping off a memorable tournament for the group of lifelong friends from Birrong Netball Club.

Featuring more than 75 teams across open, over-35s and over-40s divisions, the tournament celebrates friendship, fitness and fun, challenging the idea that sport has an age limit.

Led by team manager Leah and coach Lee, who joined Birrong Netball Club in 1966 as a 10-year-old, the SOS team includes women in their 40s, 50s and 60s who continue to compete, train and travel together.

"We play all year with the Aware Super Social Masters in mind. It's what everything revolves around," Lee said.

The team came into the tournament off the back of an undefeated local season, regularly taking on opponents decades younger.

"We play against women in their late teens and twenties. We might be older, but we've got years of experience behind us and we still love competing."

This year, the team has welcomed some fresh talent with Bridget, who grew up in Kenya and represented her country before moving to Australia.

“We like to joke that she’s our marquee signing – she's a beautiful player who has brought a lot to the team.”

For Lee and her teammates, however, the event is about much more than winning.

"It's hugely important. Netball keeps us connected, active and socially engaged," she said. "As you get older, those friendships become even more important. It's great for your mental health and it gives everyone something to look forward to."

The SOS team has played together through decades of life changes, raising families, careers, retirement and caring responsibilities.

“One teammate, Raelene, our Centre played through injury last year and returned to the court stronger than ever after going through extensive rehabilitation.   Our Goal Defender Jodie missed the later of the season with a hamstring injury but following many physio sessions is now ready to give her all, while another balances netball with caring for her mother,” said Lee.

Aware Super sponsorship lead Alice Eastman said the event demonstrates the important role sport and social connection play in healthy ageing.

"The Aware Super Social Masters is about far more than netball. It's about staying active, building friendships and continuing to do the things you love as you get older," Ms Eastman said.

"Teams like SOS show that age is no barrier to competition, connection or having fun."

 

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