Netball

Netball at Downside School is truly a reflection of the community of the school. On court, the girls are supportive, encouraging and motivating which helps to raise the standard and perception of women in sport. Netball provides the girls with a fun and engaging outlet away from the classroom which has a positive impact on their mental health. The Downside ethos is instilled in their game play, promoting a culture of humility when celebrating process goals, discipline in the attitude towards training and stewardship in the support the girls give to their peers in lessons and through our leadership programme with the 1st Team.

The netball programme continues to grow with 15 teams across the school and every girl getting the opportunity to represent the school in fixtures. These teams are supported by a wealth of experienced coaches, the majority of whom are Level 2 qualified. Through our coaches and the netball pathways, we have forged links with county academies, local clubs and Team Bath Netball which allows the girls an opportunity to progress into high performance netball.

We are an inclusive sport, creating a safe and supporting environment for girls to exercise with freedom and comfort. With equality and inclusion at our heart, we have also opened the doors to boys to experience the intensity and skill level netball requires, increasing our acceptance of all pupils and what they bring to the court.

LISA PACKER
Netball Development Lead Coach & England Netball Level 2
LPacker@downside.co.uk