“Sun” shines on Oldham Netball Club

Oldham Netball Club Crowned Inaugural Fire5 Champions and Win £13,000 Prize Fund

Oldham Netball Club made history this weekend by becoming the inaugural Fire5 Champions, claiming the title and £13,000 in prize money at the UK’s first-ever Fire5 tournament, held at Belle Vue Sports Arena in Manchester.

Competing under the name Team Suns, Oldham emerged victorious in the innovative five-a-side competition created by former New Zealand Silver Fern and double Commonwealth Games gold medallist Maria Folau and backed by private investment into netball .

Featuring fast-paced 21-minute matches, power plays and long-range shooting opportunities, the tournament attracted eight teams from across the UK and offered a total prize fund of £23,500

Competing under the name Team Suns, Oldham emerged victorious in the innovative five-a-side competition created by former New Zealand Silver Fern and double Commonwealth Games gold medallist Maria Folau. Featuring fast-paced 21-minute matches, power plays and long-range shooting opportunities, the tournament attracted eight teams from across the UK, offered a total prize fund of £23,500, and was backed by private investment aimed at driving innovation and growth within netball.

After progressing through the group stages and knockout rounds, Team Suns defeated tournament favourites Team Sting in the final to secure the inaugural title. The team showed resilience, adaptability and composure throughout the weekend, thriving in the exciting new format.

The celebrations extended beyond the team competition, with Oldham’s Alice McGeachy winning the Last Blaze 60-metre sprint race and its £1,000 prize.

Oldham Netball Club Senior Head Coach Debbie Hallas said:

“What a weekend. We really didn’t know what to expect from this new format, but it delivered everything it promised. The energy, intensity and excitement were incredible from start to finish.”

“This was a young team that grew in confidence with every match. They adapted quickly, embraced new tactics and showed tremendous character throughout the tournament. I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

“The prize money is phenomenal and something rarely seen in netball. It will help fund our pre-season trip to Northern Ireland next week and support the team throughout the upcoming season. It’s a fantastic reward for all their hard work.”

Squad: Jasmina Jones, Lois Cowin, Hannah Diamond (Captain), Amelia Hall (Vice-Captain), Grace James, Sarah Rexstraw, Molly Neville, Caitlyn Campbell, Alice McGeachy and Elia McCormick.

Management Team
Head Coach: Debbie Hallas
Assistant Coach: Tom Nokes
Team Managers: Sarah Barlow and Paddy Diamond.