Today we are joined by one of the Activfirst team to talk all things Back to Netball! Including a personal account and information about the scheme itself. Back to Netball is a fitness scheme that provides women of all ages across England with a gentle re-introduction to the sport!

When did Back to Netball start?

Back to Netball started in 2008 and has been growing from strength to strength ever since. 10 years later nobody was prepared for over 60,000 women to be involved! Women have very quickly realised the benefits of playing netball; improving cardiovascular health, losing weight, improving muscular fitness/tone and widening their social circles amid many, many more benefits.

How I got started with Back to Netball

After having my two children, I needed to find something in my life that was just for me. This is when I heard about a Back to Netball club running at a local school. I was immediately interested! However, I’d not played netball since school (20 years ago). So I felt extremely anxious about what I could possibly bring to this club. Surely they’d all be fit and good at the sport? Did I even remember the netball positions or rules?

I enquired through Facebook and received a very warm and welcoming message insisting I come down to the training session that week. That’s all it took. One session and I was hooked! I felt completely at home and was made to feel so welcome. I immediately felt accepted and that I could actually bring something to this club. Five years later I am still playing. I love it. I look forward to every Wednesday night when I get 2 hours of time JUST FOR ME. It’s amazing to be around other like-minded women in similar positions.

Back to Netball has been life changing

Over the 5 years, I have been playing I have massively transformed myself into a more confident woman. I am stronger not just physically but mentally too. Netball is time for me meaning I can really appreciate and enjoy time with my children.

I completely underestimated the word ‘teamwork’ and wow what a feeling to be in a team, a sense of belonging and to be needed. With my background in fitness, I am now the head fitness coach; helping to develop the fitness of the club. Now I deliver additional classes and a running club for those who want to progress further. I started in a team in the 3rd division and now I play in the 1st division! A huge personal and team achievement. Not bad for someone who just wanted to turn up, train and not commit!

Back to Netball, has been life changing for me and I don’t know where I’d be without it. Even my family benefit from the positive effects it has had on me.

So, I hope my story will help motivate others to take that scary step to make a change, but a change for a better, more balanced lifestyle.

Who is Back to Netball for?

Back to Netball is running across England and is for women of all ages and abilities. The best part is you don’t need any special kit, just comfortable clothing and trainers. My advice would be to make sure you bring some water and that you’ve eaten or had a snack a couple of hours before the session.

How do you get started?

Get on the internet and search for clubs local to you. Once you’ve found a club make contact with the head coach to find out more details. Then just turn up and play! Moreover, you won’t be expected to pay any affiliation fees to play in any leagues; you just play and train on the allocated night. The rest will all fall into place!

10 great reasons to play Netball

Finally (last but by no means least) here are 10 great reasons to start playing netball:

  1. Anyone can join
  2. You don’t have to commit
  3. Varied sessions to develop strength, fitness and skills
  4. Its always fun
  5. Great way to get fit
  6. Improves overall health and wellbeing
  7. Value for money
  8. The coaches are great
  9. Great way to meet people
  10. FEEL LIKE YOU AGAIN!!

Activbusiness Funded Netball Sessions

Before you go, are you a Bridlington local? If so, you might qualify for our funded netball sessions through the Activbusiness project! To find out more contact Ed Grady on 07487 883237 or ed.grady@activfirst.co.uk.