Inside England Netball’s Rise To The Top

Introduction To England netball's rising prominence

England netball is carving out a new chapter in British sport. With a growing professional league and rising stars like Liv Tchine, the sport is gaining momentum heading into the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the 2027 World Cup. This article explores the journey of England's netball elite, the challenges they face, and the bright future that lies ahead.

Liv Tchine's experience at St George's park: a glimpse of the future

London Pulse goal shooter Liv Tchine recently experienced England football's prestigious St George's Park training centre, a facility that epitomises elite professional sport in the UK. Tchine's reaction was one of awe and inspiration. She envisioned what it could mean for netball to have similar resources, saying, "Just imagine netball having this kind of facility. Do you know how sick that would be?"

Her 10-day training stay at St George's Park ahead of international series against Jamaica and New Zealand highlighted the gap between netball’s current infrastructure and the top-tier support other sports enjoy. Yet, it also reinforced the belief that netball in England is on the cusp of that professional breakthrough.

The growth of the netball super league and its significance

The Netball Super League, England’s premier domestic competition, is the cornerstone of the sport’s professional era. Since its relaunch, the league has seen impressive growth in attendance and quality. Average crowds increased by 42% in 2025, pushing past 2,000 spectators per game—a substantial rise from previous seasons averaging around 1,500.

For context, the Women's Super League football, which has since exploded in popularity, started with average attendances of just 728 in 2014. The trajectory of football crowds to tens of thousands now serves as motivation for netball's growth. Players and fans alike are optimistic that netball will follow a similar path.

New venues and teams for 2026

The 2026 season introduces exciting changes that reflect this progress. Cardiff Dragons will rebrand simply as Dragons and expand their home games to Liverpool as well. Matches will also be played at new venues like the National Cycling Centre in Manchester and the Essex Sports Arena, signalling wider geographic reach.

In a highlight for fans, Wembley Arena will host a London derby between Mavericks and London Pulse, underscoring netball's rising profile.

Comparing participation: netball versus football among young women

Sport England data from 2022-23 reveals a notable shift: more girls under 18 now play football (16%) than netball (15.4%). While netball participation has remained steady, football has seen an increase, boosted by the Lionesses’ Euro 2022 triumph.

England Netball’s chief executive Fran Connolly has cautioned that an overwhelming focus on football’s growth could negatively impact other women’s sports like netball, which lacks the financial backing of male counterparts. This highlights the importance of balanced investment and promotion across female sports.

The impact of major wins on grassroots engagement

Big victories can spark surges in participation. Following England’s gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia, more than 130,000 women took up netball or increased their playing frequency. A repeat success in Glasgow 2026 could similarly rejuvenate grassroots interest and help secure the sport’s future.

Netball England's leadership and strategic vision

The appointment of Baroness Sue Campbell, former FA director of women’s football, as England Netball chair signals a strategic push to elevate netball’s stature. Her experience in boosting female participation in football is invaluable as netball aims to replicate such success.

Players like Tchine draw inspiration from the Lionesses and Red Roses, hoping to harness that momentum for netball’s rise. Tchine expresses a clear ambition: "I want to be able to go out with the Roses and use that momentum to try and get our gold medal." This aspiration reflects a growing confidence within the sport.

Challenges and opportunities ahead for England netball

Despite progress, financial constraints remain a challenge. The Netball Super League, though professional, operates with tighter budgets than many comparable sports. However, increased media exposure and sponsorship deals, similar to the recent Sky Sports WSL broadcast deal, could pave the way for greater investment.

Moreover, expanding venues and scheduling high-profile matches at iconic locations like Wembley signal growing confidence in netball’s commercial appeal.

Looking beyond netball: lessons from other sports

England’s sporting landscape offers examples of successful grassroots to elite pathways. Cricket’s innovative Hundred competition has reinvigorated interest, while para-sports achievements like the European Para Dressage medals demonstrate the impact of strategic development. Netball can adopt similar models to build sustainable growth.

Conclusion: A promising future for England netball

England netball stands at an exciting crossroads. With rising participation, expanding professional opportunities, and ambitious players like Liv Tchine, the sport’s prospects are bright. The journey to Commonwealth glory in Glasgow 2026 and World Cup success in 2027 is underway, embodying the spirit of a sport ready to claim its place among Britain’s elite.

For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, now is a thrilling time to follow England netball’s ascent. From grassroots courts to national stadiums, the game is evolving – and the best is yet to come.