Netball at 100: From Grassroots Glory to Olympic Dreams

12th February 1926 marked a monumental moment in sporting history: the birth of England Netball under the leadership of Edith Thompson, CBE. Fast-forward 100 years, and the sport has flourished beyond measure. Today, England Netball boasts over 120,000 affiliated members, with more than 180,000 women and girls taking to the court every week. The rise of mixed and men’s teams further demonstrates the sport’s evolving and inclusive trajectory.

Since its inception, several programs have been established to nurture this growth. Initiatives such as Walking Netball, Back to Netball, and Bee Netball for the younger generation—alongside the Future Roses National Academy—provide vital pathways for players. These avenues offer more than just physical activity; they provide goals and motivation, allowing players to push their limits in an environment where they can truly be themselves.

Grassroots clubs remain the lifeblood of the sport, having produced legends like Helen Housby, Jade Clarke, Eleanor Cardwell, Jo Harten, Geva Mentor, and Fran Williams. These athletes continue to inspire fans of all ages and pave the way for the next generation of England stars.

To celebrate the centenary, I spoke to players in the social leagues about what the sport means to them:

Lauren Winter: “Netball gives me my weekly dosage of joyful chaos. It is the one part of my week where I can sprint around like an overexcited spaniel, pretending I have athletic ability. It’s fun, it’s chaotic, and at times, absolutely hilarious. I get to spend time with people I genuinely adore while making new friends. It is my happy place—even when I’m shouting at myself, sweating like a radiator, and pretending I didn’t just commit the world’s most obvious footwork violation!

I also love my 'signature move,' which involves completely unnecessary loopy passes—the kind that sail majestically through the air while the shooters in the D look on, terrified, silently praying it doesn’t bonk them on the head.”

Kate Harvey: “Netball is where my brain finally switches off for the week; all my worries are forgotten, and I’m focused entirely on the match. I’ve met some of the best people through netball. It’s pure escapism for me.”

As the 100th anniversary passes, the discussion regarding netball’s inclusion in the Olympics has intensified. Despite being recognized by the International Olympic Committee, the sport has yet to make its debut on the Olympic stage. Historically, challenges such as a female-only image and a limited global footprint have held it back. However, the growth of the men’s game, mixed competitions, and the fast-paced Fast5 format are helping to modernize the sport's image and reach new audiences globally.

With the 2032 Olympic Games set for Brisbane, Australia—the home of the current World Champions—the push for inclusion has never been stronger. Securing a spot on the world’s biggest stage would bring unprecedented viewership and a new wave of fans.

Will 2032 be the year netball finally makes its Olympic debut? We’ll have to wait and see.