Western Bay of Plenty's young netball players who need some help to hit the court this season can now apply for an ANZ Netball Grant.

With many families feeling financial pressure, ANZ Netball Grants aims to ensure youngsters aged five-18 can still play netball by subsidising Bay of Plenty kids' registration fees.

ANZ, which is providing $100,000 in netball fee subsidies, says the financial help could be the difference between a child getting into the game or having to watch the season from the sidelines.

Teams can apply directly for financial support from ANZcourtside.co.nz until entries close March 24.

The bank has supported netball, from grassroots teams in the community, to the elite players in the ANZ Premiership and Silver Ferns, for 14 years.

ANZ Bank New Zealand chief executive Antonia Watson says more and more families are under financial pressure and registration fees are one of the first barriers of entry to sport.

'Sport is such an important part of a child's wellbeing and we don't want families who might be doing it tough to miss out.

'Nothing brings Kiwi families together like weekend sport and, particularly at times of stress, it's a great way to strengthen community spirit.

'We hope this support helps remove that financial barrier and allows everyone to continue to enjoy netball this season.”

Netball NZ CEO Jennie Wyllie says this initiative from ANZ will make a huge difference in the community.

'Families who might have had to sacrifice the game, can reconsider entering their child thanks to ANZ.”

Applications for the ANZ Future Captains experience, which gives two lucky netball fans the chance to lead the stars of the ANZ Premiership onto the court at each official match, interact with the players, and experience the action from prime courtside seats, are now open too.

This unique opportunity to connect with Aotearoa's top netball players is back after being benched due to Covid-19 in 2022.

Applications are open at: www.ANZcourtside.co.nz