Watch stars of the future

Netball fans have an opportunity to see the stars of the future in action at an upcoming academy showcase event.

Teams from Wasps Netball and Manchester Thunder’s academies go head-to-head at the University of Birmingham Sport and Fitness Club on Saturday March 24.

Wasps and Thunder are both unbeaten in this year’s Vitality Netball Superleague and many of the academy players on display could be seen in their Superleague line-ups in years to come.

The showcase event features matches at under 16, under 17, under 19 and under 21 level, with the latter two contests being hotly anticipated NPL league clashes.

The under 21s sees George Fisher and Amy Clinton – two of England Netball’s hottest prospects who have already this season shone at senior level on the Superleague stage – face off against each other. Both under 19 teams are undefeated, with Wasps’ Annabel Roddy and Thunder’s Berri Neil being players to watch.

The under 15 clash starts proceedings at 1pm, followed by the under 19s. Wasps’ under 17 team, currently enjoying a four-game winning streak, get underway at 4.40pm before the under 21s round things off at 6pm.

Dannii Titmuss, Wasps Netball’s Head Academy Coach said the event showcases some exciting young talent from the black-and-golds’ talent development pipeline.
“This is a brilliant opportunity for netball fans to see the stars of the future from two of the Superleague’s top teams,” she said.

“Wasps Netball has launched eight academy hubs targeted at talented 13 to 18 year olds which provide them with opportunities to get involved. This showcase event takes place while the Superleague takes a break for the Commonwealth Games, and involves top young players who could one day represent their country in future Games.”
Tickets to the showcase event are priced at £5 or £3 for those aged 12 and below.
Tickets for University of Birmingham students (with a valid ID card) cost £4 and those aged three and under go free. Family tickets, for two adults and two children, are priced at £14, with free parking available on the day.