Carmel ThomasonIf you think Back to Netball means revisiting that game you played in school PE, wearing a pleated skirt, while a shouty PE teacher yelled: ‘Don’t walk with the ball’. Think again. The sport has changed and so have you!
This summer is going to be the biggest summer of netball with the Netball World Cup happening right here in the North West.
More than 130,700 people have started playing netball or more netball since the England’s glorious Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2018.
If you would like to join in, Back to Netball, England Netball’s flagship participation programme, provides a gentle re-introduction to netball for people who have played in the past and want to re-engage with a sport they love.
Netball coach Sarah Collins is starting new Back to Netball sessions in Salford Quays, on Wednesday evenings from 19 June 2019 at Oasis Academy.
“This is an opportunity to get back into the biggest female sport in a fun, relaxed, environment,” she says. “You don’t have to sign up, you can take it all at your own pace, and you don’t have to come every week. We know how busy and chaotic life can be nowadays. These sessions are for you to try! Whether you played one year ago or 40+ years ago, Back to Netball’ really is for you.
“And don’t worry if you can’t remember anything from your school days, this is where I – a qualified Level 2 coach – come into play. We will revisit those memories in a fun, non-judgmental way”.
The Back to Netball scheme has been running for 10 years with 97% of participants surveyed reporting that netball helps them to become physically active and has led to healthier lifestyles – 51% said it improved confidence, 76% said it made them feel good about themselves and 67% said it helped them to relax.
“The benefits of playing netball are massive,” Sarah adds. “I burn approximately 350 – 450 calories a game. And as well as the health benefits there is the social side too. I will always make it enjoyable, I will encourage and empower anyone who wants to give getting back into sport a go. And if you don’t like it, you tried it and well done you!”
The great thing about Back to Netball in Salford is that you can decide to give it a go on the day and don’t need any special kit. Just wear clothes that you feel comfortable exercising in and trainers ideally that lace up. Sarah also advises you bring some water to keep hydrated and and that you’ve had a snack a couple of hours before hand.
“There is no need to register in advance,” says Sarah. “Simply just turn up at the time, say hello to me!”
Sarah’s Back to Netball sessions are at Oasis Academy on Wednesday evenings 6.30pm-7.30pm. There is free parking on site with entrance via the school reception. Sessions cost £4. For more details email: katie.thompson@englandnetball.co.uk
Jordon Francis
Reece Donlan