NATIONAL LEAGUE SEASON PREVIEW: EDINBURGH UNIVERSITY
22nd January 2026
Edinburgh University Netball – Season Preview
Edinburgh University return to the National League with confidence, clarity, and a new-look squad ready to defend their crown. Last season’s championship success has naturally raised the bar — but Head Coach Trish Wilcox is leaning into the challenge, not shying away from it.
Identity: resilient, adaptable, relentless
For Wilcox, the defining trait of this group is how quickly they learn and respond in the moment. “I’d say it’s our team’s resilience and adaptability that sets us apart,” she says. With “a solid mix of experience and fresh talent,” Edinburgh are prepared to adjust tactically when required — and they’re determined to make the hard parts of the game non-negotiable.
“Our defensive intensity is top-notch, and we’re always looking for ways to outwork the opposition. Plus, our squad’s got a great vibe, and that energy’s infectious on the court.”
Head Coach Trish Wilcox controlling the team huddle. Photo: www.craigwatson.co.uk
That balance of grit and togetherness is central to how Edinburgh want to play: high work-rate defence, smart game-plan shifts, and momentum built through collective energy.
Leadership: two captains, one direction
Edinburgh’s leadership team is anchored by co-captains Felicity Rome and Lousanna Kurestian, and Wilcox believes their partnership is a major strength. “They complement each other beautifully, each bringing different qualities to the leadership team.”
2026 Captain Felicity Rome in last year’s NL Semi-Final. Photo: www.craigwatson.co.uk
Rome sets the emotional tone and standards through action. “Felicity is passionate and wears her heart on her sleeve, fantastic at leading by example,” says Wilcox. Kurestian provides structure and support around the group’s day-to-day demands: “Lousanna is an excellent support for Felicity and the team, fantastic at keeping the team on track logistically.”
That support matters, especially in a university environment. As Wilcox notes, “Both captains have been fantastic at supporting this young group as they get to grips with juggling study, work and sport.”
Rome’s own view of captaincy reflects Edinburgh’s team-first culture:
“I think balance is at the root of my approach to captaincy. I try to be disciplined and principle-focused whilst also bringing the optimism, energy and noise to everything we do… I want and make effort to ensure everyone is seen, safe and included within our environment.”
Defending champions — with a fresh face
With a title to defend, Edinburgh know they’ll be the team everyone wants to knock off. “Having had such a successful season last year we obviously have a target on our back,” Wilcox admits. But the squad has evolved: “This is a new look team with so many of last year’s team graduating.” With as many as three starters from last year’s grand final team (Lex Callard, Katie Joslin and Julia Eglin no longer with the team, opportunities await for new players, and some with more experience, such as current Scottish Thistles Captain Emily Nicholl who missed the bulk of last season while playing in Australia. She figures to slot back in at GD to form a strong defensive line with Rome and WD Claudia Leeming-Price.
What excites the coaching group is the speed of the new group’s development. “We are [a] young exciting team who are already showing the potential they have in the first half of BUCS season.”
What to expect
Edinburgh are preparing for a tight league, with no easy weeks. “We look forward to playing all of the National League teams as they have all recruited well in the offseason and are looking strong so it will be a closely contested season.”
For Edinburgh University, the mission is clear: keep the standards that won a title, empower a new generation, and turn togetherness into an edge — week after week.
