Bond University Bull Sharks Netball is thrilled to welcome a new corporate partner in 2025 with Queensland law firm and compensation claim specialists TPIL Lawyers signing on as Bond University Pathways Sponsor.
As the name suggests, the sponsorship will be directed towards the rising tide of young stars in its brand new Emerald Greater Brisbane Netball League team, and Bull Sharks Development and Emerging Pathways Elite Premier League squads.
TPIL Lawyers Managing Director, James Madden, says the firm’s commitment stems from a belief in netball’s proven ability to strengthen communities and inspire diversity. But he also says it’s not just about sport.
James caught up with Matt Webber from the Bond Newsroom.
How did your relationship with Bond Bull Sharks Netball form?
Back in 2024, we set out to find meaningful ways to give back to our local community and build relationships with like-minded organisations. Bond University quickly stood out as a natural fit, offering fantastic recruitment opportunities through both its talented graduates and current students. As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting local employment pathways, we also wanted to contribute to the University in return. By working closely with the Bond Partnerships team, we uncovered opportunities for a partnership that benefits both sides. Our involvement in the Bond Netball Bull Sharks Pathways Program has not only strengthened our support for women in sport but also deepened our connection to the community we proudly call home.
Why netball? What is it about this particular sport and community that appeals?
In the Bond University netball community we see the opportunity to connect with a vibrant, values-driven community and be part of a sport that empowers people, and in particular young women, and brings them together. Netball is the most popular sport for women and girls in Australia and supporting netball shows our commitment to gender equity in sport. In addition, netball attracts a wide demographic – young players, people from various cultural backgrounds, and, increasingly, male and mixed teams. This inclusiveness aligns with our values of diversity and equality. On a personal note, I also have a 6-year old who has just started playing in her first netball team and so I suspect netball will be a part of my life for many years to come!
You’ve also teamed up with QAFL this year. Why? How did that come about?
AFL is one of the fastest-growing and most loved sports in Queensland. Much like netball, local AFL clubs act as vibrant community hubs, uniting families, volunteers, and passionate supporters. The QAFL and QAFLW are expanding their reach through programs that support women, First Nations players, and multicultural communities—initiatives that reflect a strong commitment to inclusion and holistic wellbeing, values that closely align with ours at TPIL. We're incredibly proud to be partnering with AFL Queensland through to 2028. As with our other Queensland-based partnerships, this collaboration came about through our evolving marketing strategy and the exciting opportunity to align our brand with an organisation that’s making a real difference in the lives of Queenslanders.
Why is it important for businesses to seek out and form these kinds of relationships?
Investing in grassroots sports is a smart move for business. It allows business to connect with the community – providing much needed resources to often underfunded local sporting clubs and communities, while at the same time allowing a business to grow their brand and make a positive impact.
Elite Premier League competition is already underway for Bond University’s Emerging and Development Pathways teams and the Bull Sharks’ brand new Emerald side will get its chance on court when the Greater Brisbane Netball League starts in early May.
TPIL Lawyers, established in 1983, is a law firm that specialises in personal injury litigation. Specific areas of expertise include workplace, motor vehicle, and TPD workplace claims. The firm has offices in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast.