Understand
New Haxby sports courts named after local netball legend Val Kennedy
Overview
A new community multi-sport facility at Ethel Ward Playing Fields in Haxby has been named the Val Kennedy Courts in honour of a local netball coach who has dedicated over four decades to the sport. The deteriorating courts were transformed into a safe, accessible facility through a collaborative effort involving local clubs, businesses, volunteers, Haxby Town Council, and funding partners. The official opening took place on Saturday, attended by York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith.
Key points
- Val Kennedy has been involved with Haxby Netball Club since its establishment in 1980, serving as chair until 2022.
- The upgraded facility at Ethel Ward Playing Fields will benefit Haxby Netball Club, Haxby Runners, Haxby Town FC, and Haxby Town JFC.
- The project transformed deteriorating courts into a modern, accessible multi-sport facility for all ages.
- The courts were officially opened on Saturday by York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith.