Australian netball gets the royal treatment

NATIONAL: King Gee has avoided bench-warming duties for another season.

The iconic workwear brand has just announced a partnership deal with Netball Australia to become the official off-court uniforms supplier for its 2007 national team.

King Gee marketing manager Feargal Caley said the deal, which was signed late last month for an undisclosed sum, had been finalised just in time for the 2007 World Championships in Auckland.

"Our girls have shown great dedication to the game, have enormous talent and can hold their own on the international circuit. We are proud to support them as they strive to regain their championship status."

Following the announcement, the Australian netball team modelled the new attire at an official launch in Melbourne, showcasing two different King Gee corporate wear outfits including a formal and casual range. The former consisted of a modern lightweight polywool stretch suiting fabrication while the latter was comprised of 100 per cent cotton chinos and blouses.

The chinos are treated with an exclusive form of nanotechnology, allowing them to repel liquids and release stains without affecting the softness of the fabrication. The treatment is used across a broad range of King Gee products including industrial workwear, high-visibility workwear, corporate clothing and uniforms.

Netball Australia chief executive officer Kate Palmer said she believed the technology was well-suited to the needs of sportswomen.

"It is critical that our athletes look professional off the court but also feel comfortable and fashionable. This partnership with King Gee delivers exactly what our players and officials need heading into the World Championship campaign."

By Assia Benmedjdoub