Cerys Finn: Finding Joy, Balance and Purpose Through Netball
8th October 2025
At just 20 years old, Cerys Finn has already achieved what many athletes dream of — representing her country, balancing university life with elite sport, and inspiring the next generation of young players along the way. We sat down with the Thistles and university netballer to talk about her journey, the lessons sport has taught her, and what it means to be celebrating women in sport this week.
“The beauty of sport” — lessons for a 12-year-old girl
Asked what she would tell a 12-year-old girl about the value of sport, Finn doesn’t hesitate.
“People always say the ‘beauty of sport’ — and it’s so true,” she smiles. “You experience every emotion from joy to anger, pride to heartbreak. Everyone has a story about sport, even if it’s just a memory of kicking a ball.”
For Finn, sport has always been about belonging as much as it has been about competition.
“The wonderful thing about sport is that you instantly have a space to fit in. No matter your ability or aspirations, there’s someone else like you. At 12, having that group away from school — people who push you in a way that’s enjoyable — was so beneficial in building confidence and problem-solving skills. Honestly, it’s shaped who I am today.”
Balancing dreams, studies and life
Growing up, Finn admits she may have always had an unspoken dream to play at the highest level.
“I think subconsciously some part of me did,” she says. “I loved watching the Olympics, the Commonwealth Games — I thought it was so cool to be part of something like that. But I didn’t train for that reason. I did it because I loved the feeling and the people.”
Balancing multiple sports, schoolwork and training was far from easy.
“Time was my biggest challenge,” she explains. “I wanted to do everything and give 100% to all of it — but that’s not always sustainable. I was really lucky to have a supportive system around me who made sure I rested and could get to training.”
Now in her fourth year of university, that balancing act continues.
“The uni-life balance is tricky — I swear it never gets easier! Some days I’m meant to be in uni for seven hours, but also in Bristol for a game. I’ve had to take ownership of my studies, catching up on buses and trains, and sometimes pulling all-nighters to keep on top of things. Both Strathclyde and Hertfordshire Universities have been incredible — they’ve given me the flexibility I’ve needed to make both worlds work.”
Nineteen caps and counting
With 19 international caps already to her name, Finn is humble when reflecting on her netball journey so far.
“It feels like it’s all happened quite quickly,” she says. “Every opportunity and experience has been brilliant in its own way. What I’m most proud of, though, is how we’ve built a group of good people — not just good athletes. The place we’ve gotten to with the Thistles is so promising and makes me really excited for the future.”
Her standout moment? The recent Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar.
“That was special. It was the one competition I vividly remember saying I wanted to go to. The whole cycle brought challenges and self-discovery, but we created a culture you really wanted to buy into. Standing beside your closest friends, singing Scottish songs — that’s a feeling you never forget.”
The impact of netball
When asked what impact netball has had on her life, Finn’s answer is simple.
“Definitely the people. I’ve been so lucky to have teammates who are now lifelong friends. Being surrounded by inspiring people has been a privilege.”
But sport has also taught her self-awareness and resilience.
“It’s taught me more about myself and my limits than anything else could. Finding the balance between pushing my limits and prioritising my health has been key. No athlete has a perfect career — there are ups and downs — but each one is a chance to grow.”
A message to the next generation
For young girls thinking about whether to stick with sport or not, Finn’s advice is heartfelt.
“Just try to have fun with it,” she says. “You don’t need to be the best or have the best kit — just enjoy the process. Enjoy being with your friends, enjoy pushing yourself. What will happen, will happen — so enjoy the journey while you’re on it.”
Cerys Finn embodies the spirit of women’s sport — driven, humble, and passionate.
Her story is one of joy, balance, and community — and a reminder that sport isn’t just about winning medals, but about finding your place, your people, and your purpose.
