Cranbrook’s Own Joins the Australian Kelpies Men’s Netball Team for 2025 UK Tour
We’re proud to announce that Jack Vandervelde, a valued member of Cranbrook School’s teaching staff, has been selected to represent Australia in the national men’s netball team, the Australian Kelpies, for their upcoming 2025 UK tour.
While netball might not be the first sport that comes to mind for men in Australia, it’s a rapidly growing game and Mr Vandervelde is helping to lead the charge.
His journey began just a few years ago in 2019, when he joined a mixed netball team at Macquarie University. “We ended up winning the National University Championships that year,” he recalls. “ I came from a basketball background, and with both my parents playing netball at a high level, I sort of picked things up pretty quickly.”
From there, he earned a spot in the NSW Men’s Netball program and, by 2023, was called up to the Australian Kelpies. His commitment, both on and off the court, reflects a deep passion for the sport.
Being selected to represent Australia is no small feat. The lead-up includes months of training, intense national competitions, and a rigorous selection camp held at the AIS in Canberra. “That camp is self-funded too, which just adds to the level of commitment and passion from everyone trying out,” he says.
Looking ahead to the UK tour in 2025, Mr Vandervelde is driven to help elevate the profile of men’s netball internationally. “The UK tour is all about putting men’s netball and the Kelpies brand on the international map. As a team, we aim to be clinical, unbreakable, and professional. These are the values we live by, on and off the court. We’re coming off a 4–0 series win against the New Zealand Netblacks, so we’re definitely looking to keep that momentum going in the UK.”
Despite the demanding schedule of training, matches, and travel, he continues to dedicate himself to his teaching role at Cranbrook. “ Teaching gives me so much purpose. Getting to inspire young students every day really drives me, and it keeps me disciplined and organised in all areas of life. I want to give my best both in the classroom and on the court.”
He’s also committed to fostering the next generation of male netballers, recently taking on a coaching role with the Sydney Basin team for the NSW Netball Primary All Schools Boys 12 & Under competition. “It’s such a great way for boys to get involved and see what the sport has to offer!”
When asked what advice he would give to boys or young men looking to get into netball, his answer is simple: “Just give it a go! I’ve met some incredible people through netball, and I know I’ve made mates for life. The men’s game is growing fast, and there are so many exciting opportunities popping up, especially for younger boys. Local clubs are starting to really get behind the men’s space, and that’s thanks to all the amazing work being done behind the scenes by athletes and coaches.”
As someone who came to netball later in life and rose quickly through the ranks, Mr Vandervelde has a clear vision for the sport’s future.
“The future of men’s netball is seriously exciting. It’s actually one of the fastest-growing sports for males in Australia right now, which is amazing to see. I love that young boys are starting to see netball as something they can really pursue. One day, I’d love to see it become a full-time career path for men, with proper funding, income, and opportunities to play and showcase our game on the world stage.”
He acknowledges the lingering stereotypes around the sport. “I still get asked, “Wait, men play netball?”, which is fair enough, we’re still new to the international scene, but I really want to help change that perception.”
Through his work on the court, in the classroom, and with junior teams, Mr Vandervelde hopes to help pave the way for future generations. “For me, it’s all about legacy, paving the way for the next generation and helping build something we can all be proud of.”
At Cranbrook, we are incredibly proud of Mr Vandervelde, not just for his selection to the national team, but for his integrity, passion, and commitment to inspiring young people through education and sport. We’ll be cheering him on every step of the way.
