Netball launches its own Players Association

Netball players in the UK have praised the formation of an independent Players Association.

A statement from the newly formed Twitter handle @netballpa on Friday confirmed the launch of the Netball Players Association - the latest step in the sport's growth, giving the players one voice at a time when they need it most.

Netball is one of the UK's fastest growing sports and a new-look 10-team domestic Superleague proved a success last season to go with the award of 23 full-time contracts by England netball to players - a process that was not without its hitches.

With players from the UK in demand in the high-profile Australia and New Zealand leagues, the players' interests are widening.

As England prepare to take part in the latest instalment of the Quad Series ahead of the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in a couple of months, their players have never been in more demand and the formation of the NPA will put their needs first.

"After a period of significant planning and consultation, an independent Netball Players Association (NPA) has been formed to provide a unified voice for netball players in the United Kingdom," read the statement.

"The association's primary aim is to support and promote the welfare of the players as the sport of netball moves into a professional era."

England captain Ama Agbeze added her support in the release and support from players and supporters was unanimous in its praise for news

"We are thrilled the NPA is now underway - this aligns the player support and representation with that experience in Australia and New Zealand and bodes well for the future growth of netball throughout the UK," said Agbeze.

"Having a collective voice is important to us and will mean that the players can make a real contribution to developing our sport both internationally and domestically."

Underling the news, social media provided a window into the players' delight at the news.

On the court the action continues with the Quad Series this week, you can follow all six games on Sky Sports Mix, starting on Saturday right through until next Sunday's conclusion in Johannesburg