Exhibition success

A squad of 20 Martu women have returned to their communities after a successful week of exhibition games as part of the National Softball Championships.

The women, who were competing for the Ngurra Kujungka Western Desert Shield, played three exhibition games against each other during the week-long tournament, including a curtain-raiser for the grand final between New South Wales and Queensland.

The two Martu squads were Kakarra, from the eastern desert, representing the communities of Parnngurr, Kunawarritji, Punmu and Kiwirrkurra; and Yaparra, from Western Desert areas including the Warralong, Jigalong, Nullagine and Parnpajinya communities.

The women also enjoyed a trip to the beach and shopping centres, which was a first for some.

The women were also invited to Edith Cowan University, where Associate Professor in Medical Science Sophia Nimphius explained how sports science can be applied to improve pitching, throwing and batting techniques.

Ngurra Kujungka program manager Mike McMonigal said the women appreciated the experiences on tour.

“They will take back to their communities stories of their impressions and learnings,” he said.

“We are thankful for the three-year partnership between Newcrest and Softball WA, which will see more Martu squads participate at these national championships over the next two years.”