Netball Scotland is delighted to announce its partnership with KitQueen, a leading online retailer of women’s team wear. KitQueen will be the Official Partner of the Scottish Thistles as they embark on the Netball World Cup 2023, taking place in Cape Town, South Africa from 28th July to the 6th of August.

Netball Scotland and KitQueen have a shared vision and ethos of empowering women and girls in sport and understand the importance of inclusive, functional teamwear when it comes to keeping women and girls engaged in sports and physical activity, through all stages of life.

Lucy Faulkner, Chair of Netball Scotland, commented, “We’re delighted that KitQueen has become a Netball Scotland partner. We love the way they champion diversity, inclusion, and body confidence in HER and this perfectly aligns with our approach to supporting women and girls to love their bodies, be physically active, and enjoy netball at all levels. We welcome KitQueen to the Netball Scotland family and look forward to working with them.”

The partnership will see the KitQueen logo take pride of place on the Thistles World Cup dress. As the official sponsor, KitQueen has worked together with Nike to design the dress by combining the elite functionality and performance of the Nike dress, with the heritage and pride of the Scottish Thistle and luck and positive energy of Scottish marble.

Scottish Thistles players were presented with their personalised ‘Kitmas’ boxes containing their official NWC dresses, and a special gift of Scottish Marble by KitQueen co-founder Parisha Patel © Craig Watson

“We are so honoured to be partnering with the Scottish Thistles in the lead-up to the momentous Netball World Cup,” says Parisha Patel, Chief Consumer Officer at KitKing and Co-founder of KitQueen. “As a passionate netball player myself, I know what this World Cup means to the players, and to be able to work with Netball Scotland to design this dress has been a real achievement for KitQueen. Together we have created a dress that brings pride to the players, unites them as a team, and inspires them to excel on the court and achieve great success during the tournament.”

Currently ranked 10th in the world, the Scottish Thistles will travel to South Africa to kick off their Netball World Cup 2023 campaign with their opening game against sixth-place-ranked Malawi on 28th July. Alongside them in Pool B of the competition is also Barbados, currently 14th in the world, and England, ranked 3rd in the world. Sixteen teams will be battling it out across the ten days, in the hope they will be crowned champions in netball’s most prestigious event.

About

KitQueen is the world’s first multi-sport teamwear specialist for HER, supplying and customising teamwear for girls and women.

Co-founded by Parisha and her husband Dips owners of Kitking, KitQueen has now established itself as the forefront leader in Her team wear. KitQueen’s mission is to champion inclusivity, diversity, and body confidence in HER team sports, and believes that providing the right education and information on how team kit should work for her, fit her, protect her, support her, give her confidence and make her feel like she belongs. All so she can focus, enjoy, and win her game!

To find out more about the partnership and view KitQueen’s large selection of teamwear, visit https://kitqueen.co.uk/

In a highly anticipated warm-up match before the forthcoming Netball World Cup, the Scottish Thistles clashed with Wales in a gripping encounter that demonstrated their determination and growth as they prepare for the prestigious tournament in South Africa.

With their sights set on performance rather than winning, the Scottish Thistles approached this warm-up match with a clear goal in mind, as head coach Tamsin Greenway explained. “The goal is always to perform, it’s never about winning at this stage. I mean, the win is nice, but we are trying combinations, and as long as we are performing on the things we are working on, then I’ll be happy.”

The history between the Scottish Thistles and Wales added an extra layer of significance to this encounter. Despite showcasing undeniable talent in previous encounters such as the Commonwealth Games and World Cup qualifiers, the Scottish squad had yet to secure victories against Wales. This match presented an opportunity for them to make a statement.

From the opening whistle, the game unfolded as a display of skill, determination, and resilience from both teams. The scoreboard remained close as both sides exchanged goals and exhibited impressive defensive prowess. The intensity on the court was palpable as the players left no stone unturned in their quest for victory in this warm-up clash.

In the end, Wales emerged victorious with a 56-52 scoreline over the Scottish Thistles. Despite the loss, head coach Tamsin Greenway reflected on the match, emphasising the importance of this particular training camp. “Camp 4 was a really important one for us to measure ourselves against a different opposition. Although I was disappointed with the loss, we had 11 players on court and got to try out some styles of play we’d been working on. Wales challenged us in so many ways and has really helped us with our preparation a few weeks out from the Netball World Cup. We have one more camp to go!”

09.07.23 – Welsh Feathers v Scottish Thistles, Netball World Cup Warm-up Match –

09.07.23 – Welsh Feathers v Scottish Thistles, Netball World Cup Warm-up Match –

Several standout performances caught the eye of the head coach. Emma Love and Emma Barrie, who entered the match and made significant contributions, showcased their skill and impact on the game. Additionally, Iona, who handled the physicality she faced admirably, and Cerys Finn, returning to the court after an ankle injury, were noted for their contributions to the team’s performance.

With another camp on the horizon, the Scottish Thistles are focused on their continued preparations before flying out to Cape Town at the end of the month. Follow their journey on social media to show your support for Scotland as they gear up for the highly anticipated Netball World Cup.

With just two weeks to go until the Netball World Cup Qualifiers Europe, Netball Scotland is delighted to announce that all matches will be available to watch live and on-demand worldwide.

Catherine Lewis, Chair of Europe Netball said; “This is one of the most important events in our netball calendar, and being able to live stream it out to the world ensures that the best of European netball is on show”.

The Netball World Cup Qualifiers Europe are one of the five regional qualifying events for the Netball World Cup 2023 (NWC2023) Cape Town, South Africa. The Europe event runs from 12th – 16th October at the Emirates Arena, Glasgow involving the hosts, Scotland as well as Wales, Northern Ireland, Gibraltar, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland. The top two teams at the end of the competition will be invited by World Netball to compete at the NWC2023.

Nothing beats the experience of watching live international netball in Glasgow Emirates Arena, but for those unable to make it to the stands, we’ve got you covered. Supporters within the Europe Netball region* can purchase an all-access event pass providing you with both live and on-demand access to thrilling international netball for just £9.99. Unable to follow the action live as it unfolds? On-demand access is available for up to one whole year after the event allowing unlimited opportunities to re-watch.

Live stream access is available to purchase online today, allowing you to get organised early and be ready for the first centre pass of the competition on 12th October, when a dominant 8th in the World ranked Wales take to the court against an up-and-coming Isle of Man side who will make history in participating in World Cup Qualifiers for the first time. Head to www.netballscotland.tv to net your pass today.

In support of World Netball’s core strategy GROW, set out to increase global participation, reach, revenue and capacity, international viewers outside the Europe Netball region will be able to watch all matches live or on-demand on www.netballpass.com

*Europe Netball region includes all participating countries mentioned plus England, UAE, Malta, Israel, Switzerland.
Make sure you’re following Netball Scotland on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram for all the latest news and updates!

Live event tickets are available to purchase online here – netball-scotland.ticketline.co.uk/

25.09.22

Q1
The first quarter of the 3rd and 4th playoffs for the Scottish Super Cup started off strong and intense with both sides eager to secure the 3rd place spot. Falcons took the early lead with help from the fast pace set in the shooting circle from Cerys Cairns and Emma Barrie. Harriers defence did not let up throughout the quarter with an intense battle between Claire Maxwell and Iona Christian ensuing, both players giving us a great sneak peak of the high level of play that we can expect to see in the 2023 Super League. The First quarter ended with the score being 9-13 to Falcons.

Q2
During the second quarter the levels of intensity remained just as high with each team pushing it to the absolute limit. Impressive play from each team’s respective GKs. Defensive efforts from the Harriers Rachel Conway helped to dominate play in the shooting circle and dictate movement. However, Emma Barrie remained calm and cool and continued to pop her shots in, despite being up against the Scottish Thistles ‘silent killer.’ Fast play and fast defence from the Falcons helped them to extend their lead 22-29.

© Craig Watson www.craigwatson.co.uk

Q3
Falcons continued to apply pressure to the Harriers, forcing them to commit errors, with two ‘held balls’ being called within the first 5 minutes of the quarter. Falcons controlled the first half of this quarter and really managed to get into the Harriers heads, this was helped by the daunting presence of Emily Nicholl who stepped into GD for this quarter. The second half of this quarter saw a few slips from the Falcons as Harriers continued their fight back, who had their eyes set on the prize. However, the Falcons continued to extend their lead further and further. Q3 finished 29-42 to Falcons

Q4
Despite the score line, the Harriers did not drop their heads and remained in the game. This quarter saw Sirens and Thistles teammates, Claire Maxwell and Kelly Boyle pitted against one another this combination gave us an insight of the level of intensity and grit that we can expect to see at the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers. To the very last minute the Harriers continued to fight for the ball and work their absolute hardest, even scoring the final shot on the buzzer. However, they were unable to reduce the score difference against an extremely strong and fierce Falcons side. The final Score was 38-54 to Falcons which secured them the 3rd place spot and their first win of the league.

Full match replay is available here. 

Netball Scotland has named the two squads that will compete in the upcoming international calendar.

Head coach Tamsin Greenway has named the Scottish Thistles and Scotland A squads that will seek to secure a place at the Netball World Cup taking place in Cape Town next July.

Buy tickets for the European World Cup Qualifiers.

A mix of experienced athletes and exciting new talent is spread across the squads. Commenting on the trials, Greenway says: “Selection was a great opportunity to witness some of the new players really challenge and push the existing group who are constantly striving to push Scottish netball forwards. Having new faces across the squads just shows the competition we are developing for places, and I’m really excited about the talented group I have this season.”

Netball Scotland’s Performance Director Karen Atkinson adds: “The performance programme in Scotland has taken huge strides forwards over recent years, demanding a greater commitment from the players and their understanding of what is required to compete at International Level.  It is exciting to see so many players from within the pathway putting their hand up, showing what they are capable of and making the step up to senior level”

Returning to international for the first time since the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, the Scottish Thistles will step back onto court in front of a home crowd in the five-day European World Cup Qualifiers taking place 12^th-16th October at Emirates Arena, Glasgow.

Speaking on the new squads, Greenway comments: “As a group we have high ambitions, but also know that performance takes time. The steps this group have already taken in the past 2 years, the lessons learnt from the Commonwealth Games and the new group of talented athletes putting up their hands up and demanding more just shows we are creating something special. I can’t wait to take this next group on their Thistles journey.”

As the performance programme continues to develop both Atkinson and Greenway recognise the sacrifice involved, the current head coach explains; “We understand that due to lots of different life decisions players need time out and we fully support these athletes in taking time away. International netball is exciting and a huge honour, but also really tough both mentally and physically. We are grateful for the value Ella and Nic have added to the programme over the past few seasons and respect their decision not to put themselves forwards for this year.”

Karen Atkinson adds: “Ella Gibbons and Nic McCleery have decided not to put themselves forward for selection for the forthcoming international calendar, however, the door always remains open for future selection opportunities.”

Closing the chapter on international netball, Hayley Mulheron announced her retirement recently, stating: “The times shared, friendships forged and the incredible success which I have enjoyed have been an extraordinary part of my life. I have had the honour of representing my country and I am very proud of all that I have achieved. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed to my netball journey and career. To the coaches who coached me, who believed in me and gave me the opportunity to play netball all over the world, I am and will always be grateful.”

Performance Director, Karen Atkinson comments: “We would like to thank Hayley Mulheron for her unwavering commitment to the Scottish Thistles over a period of 15 years, amassing 121 caps.  This is an amazing achievement, showing her role as a pivotal member of the squad.  We are sure she will continue to have a positive impact on the netball community and wish her all the best in her retirement.”

Head coach, Tamsin Greenway adds: “I would also like to thank Hayley for her contribution and dedication to the Thistles, sadly due to Hayley residing in Australia we were never able to work together, however having played against her over the years I know what a fierce competitor she is and she will be greatly missed on the netball court. I wish her all the very best in the future and her retirement.”

Fans can watch players take to court this Sunday 25th September as part of the SuperCup Finals. There are still tickets available to watch in person at Edinburgh University – available here. 

SuperCup Finals can also be watched live or on-demand through Netball Scotland’s brand new streaming channel on Recast – sign up free here.

Netball Scotland is launching a new Elite Coach Mentoring and Development Programme aimed at coaches who have the potential and ambition to coach at Super League or International level.

The programme will run for 18 months from March 2022 to August 2023 and will consist of individual and collective learning opportunities at regular meetings, workshops, and practical interventions to support their individual and collective needs, unique to the experiences faced in elite netball. The programme at candidates will be reviewed on a 6 monthly basis to ensure they are progressing.

The programme will contain a combination of the following:
• 1:1 coach mentoring – virtual and in-person
• Technical & tactical mentoring and development
• Cross-sport learning
• Coach conversations – forums involving coaches from a variety of sports

Karen Atkinson, Netball Scotland Performance Director says;

‘This course is part of our commitment at Netball Scotland to ensure more coaches have the ability and confidence to coach at the elite level. We want to develop our potential coaches and give them the tools to succeed, both on and off the court. It will provide our coaches with the development they need, including a broader support network and an understanding of what is required to coach at the highest level’.

For informal enquiries please contact Netball Scotland Performance Director, Karen Atkinson at karen.atkinson@netballscotland.com or Head of Netball, Rebecca Hope at rebecca.hope@netballscotland.com

Applications to be received no later than 5pm on Friday 4th March.

Please send a coaching CV along with a cover letter detailing why you would like to be involved in this programme to rebecca.hope@netballscotland.com