Newcastle University’s Sports Centre was the setting for an exciting event and netball tournament on Sunday 23rd of Mach as sixteen intramural teams from across the university came together to raise over £550 for The Children’s Foundation. Organised by Munters (Media Netball United) Social Secretary Alisha Ellis and other members of the Munters committee, the event blended athletic competition and community fundraising.
The day began with four round robin group stages, each featuring a mix of regular netballers and other sports players who normally play rugby or football. Several of the boys’ teams struggled initially with netball’s specific footwork and obstruction rules, but in keeping with the day’s inclusive atmosphere, referee volunteers from Munters were happy to let minor infringements slide and keep the focus on fun. This approach made everyone feel welcome despite any previous netball experience.
Local businesses also lent their support to the day and the Children’s Foundation by donating premium prizes for the top three finishers. Champions Mech Eng Football claimed VIP tables and bottles at Cash and Soho Rooms, queue-jump passes and rounds of VKs at Tropicana, a £30 bar tab at Osbornes, and a complimentary meal for two at Roost. Runners-up Munters Netball and third-place Armstrong Netball each received exclusive dining vouchers and VIP seating packages. Following the on-court medal and prize presentation, many teams headed to Osbornes for a few well-earned celebratory drinks, extending the camaraderie off the court.
“Our aim was to throw a super-fun day that still made a real difference for charity,” said Alisha Ellis. “Seeing people from every corner of uni having a laugh, picking up netball skills again, and raising money for the Children’s Foundation has been amazing.” Her committee worked tirelessly behind the scenes ahead of the day, managing registrations, scheduling fixtures particularly the timings for the group stages, marshaling donations, and coordinating with Sports Centre staff, to ensure the event ran smoothly from start to finish.
The final pitched Mech Eng Football against Munters Netball in a tight, entertaining match. Munters’ Goal Attack, Isla McNiddrie, delivered pinpoint feeds and crisp shooting, but Mech Eng’s mid-court defence and lightning-quick passing ultimately won the day with an 11–8 finish. The loud cheers at the final whistle showed just how much everyone enjoyed the contest.
Charlotte Rozee, who was there cheering on the Maths Netball team, summed it up: “It has honestly been the most fun day. Everyone was cheering each other on, making new mates, and then we’re heading to Osbornes for a few drinks together. Doing it for the Children’s Foundation makes it even more worthwhile.”
With feedback this upbeat, other netball captains including NUBS and Armstrong are already plotting their own charity events next year. Overall, Munters Netball United’s inaugural charity tournament was a resounding success as it focused on uniting students from diverse sports backgrounds, fostering new friendships, and demonstrating that intramural competition can be and continues to be a powerful force for social good.
