Netball Scotland’s National League: Round 1 Highlights

A new season of Netball Scotland’s National League got underway.

The buzz of excitement echoed through Emirates Arena in Glasgow yesterday, 22nd October, as Scotland’s premier netball league, the National League, commenced its fresh season.

As the top netball league in Scotland, its significance in growing the sport was evident from the performances on court and the passion off it.

As teams took to the court to set the tone for what promises to be a riveting contest the importance of this league in the elevation of netball in Scotland resonated with every pass, goal, and interception on the court.

Match Results:
Dunedin 35 – 43 Bellahouston
Edinburgh Accies 56 – 53 Saltires
Glasgow Uni 24 – 52 Edinburgh Uni

A Blend of Experience and Fresh Talent
The league showcases a diverse talent pool, from seasoned national players to the rising stars of tomorrow. With seven performance teams participating, the breadth of talent is vast. Notables like Emily Nicholl and Claire Maxwell, established figures in the national scene, share the court with up-and-coming talents like Jazmine Moore, from the U21 Scotland squad. This mix promises electric matches as seasoned professionals rub shoulders with university and club players eager to make their mark, gaining invaluable exposure in the process.

As emphasised by coaches and players alike, this league remains paramount in the growth and recognition of netball in Scotland.

Close Calls and Newfound Strengths
Saltires, bolstered by their performance, reduced the margin of their last meeting’s 13-goal loss against Edinburgh Accies to just three. Lucy Gaw, a U21 Scotland star and pivotal player for Saltires, reflected on their improved performance: “We just stuck our structures, played our own game and it was a really good physical game today.”

“I think a performance like that is great for us as a team heading into the National League this season; We have improved so much since last season; our last meeting was a 13-goal loss to Accies, and this was just 3 today.”

Jo Pettitt of Edinburgh Accies resonated with the intensity of the competition: “It was a very close game from start to finish… I don’t think you can be surprised in the National League with teams putting up that number of goals; we knew they’ve had very strong shooters.”

Rising to the Occasion
The sentiment of competition and growth was echoed by Edinburgh University’s Head Coach, Trish Wilcox, who stated, “Our goal this season is to be competitive against every team, this is the top competition in Scotland with the best players in the best clubs.” It’s evident that every match in this league is not just about the final whistle but about growth, exposure, and development.

Kelly Boyle, the Head Coach of Glasgow University, who recently transitioned into the role, commended her team’s resilience and adaptability: “Playing at this level in Scotland is what we want and it is what we need to develop so I am proud and we stood up to the challenge today.”

Looking Ahead
With the first round serving as an appetizer of the exciting clashes that await, teams, players, and fans are geared up for a season that promises unmatched intensity and skill. As each team progresses, it’s not just about the trophies but about laying the foundation for elite netball in Scotland.