SPORTING youngsters at a North-East college are to get new kit and improved coaching, after striking a sponsorship deal.

The Tyne and Wear Netball Association is the new sponsor for Gateshead College's netball team.

In return, the college will raise the profile of its netball academy and promote netball as a professional sport across the region.

Angela Richardson, netball coach at Gateshead College, said: "This link with the Tyne and Wear Netball Association will enable us to create a system for the future, where those who are interested in netball and play competitively, can pursue their professional career through coming to college."

Students at the netball academy combine full-time study with nine hours of national standard coaching. Courses are also available to gain coaching qualifications.

Liz Vuyk, chairwoman of the Tyne and Wear Netball Association said: "The financial aspect of this partnership will help us to purchase new jackets and send our county coaches to the annual coaching conference in Loughborough."