Netball New Zealand, in partnership with Sport New Zealand, is proud to announce Kate Heffernan as the Balance is Better Champion, embodying a holistic approach to athlete development. Heffernan, a high-performance netball player, is leading the charge in promoting the importance of long-term athlete welfare and well-being.
Through her role, Kate advocates for a balanced approach to sport participation, training, and personal growth. She emphasizes that nurturing all aspects of an athlete's life is key to sustained success. Her message is clear: a well-rounded pathway that supports both mental and physical health, encourages diverse sporting experiences, and reduces the risk of burnout is critical in the modern sporting landscape.
Kate’s leadership and passion for athlete welfare align with the growing recognition that early specialisation isn't the sole route to success. Instead, she reinforces that sustainable growth, both on and off the court, comes from maintaining balance and supporting athletes at every stage of their development.
Her commitment to this cause serves as an inspiration for athletes across all levels, highlighting that success is built on a foundation of balanced, healthy, and well-supported development. Netball New Zealand is excited to see Kate continue to champion this important message as we strive to create an environment where all athletes can thrive.