Wales Netball Statement

Following idle speculation online over the last few days Wales Netball have issued a statement about their current situation.

Wales Netball, the national governing body for netball in Wales, today confirms it is fully focused on building a sustainable future for the sport as it navigates a period of significant change. The organisation is seeking national support to ensure the continued success of Wales Netball and its elite club, LexisNexis Cardiff Dragons.

Since stepping into post in February 2025, Chief Executive Officer Sarah Boswell and the leadership team have undertaken a comprehensive review of historical finances and governance across both LexisNexis Cardiff Dragons and Wales Netball. In response, the Wales Netball board initiated an urgent internal review and turnaround plan in May 2025. During this period, the resignations of the majority of the LexisNexis Cardiff Dragons board were received, recognising the scale of the challenge and the need for renewed leadership. This has led to the development of a robust plan, proposed organisation restructure and a focus on long-term sustainability.

Welsh Government and Sport Wales have been formally engaged and are actively reviewing the detailed business case proposals for the future model. In parallel, Wales Netball is committed to exploring all avenues for the club to ensure that Wales continues with its ambition to excel at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and Sydney 2027 Netball World Cup, with the new Welsh Feathers’ squad being announced in the coming weeks.

Sarah Boswell, Chief Executive Officer, Wales Netball and LexisNexis Cardiff Dragons said “This is a pivotal moment for netball in Wales. We are working tirelessly, in collaboration with key stakeholders, to future-proof our sport and ensure that it continues to thrive – from grassroots to elite level. Throughout this process, the wellbeing of athletes and staff remain our number one priority and we are committed to transparency and communication with them through these next steps. We are grateful to the Welsh Government and Sport Wales for their continued support.

“We are proud of our Welsh Feathers, ranked sixth in the world, and the LexisNexis Cardiff Dragons, who are integral to the elite pathway driving that success. But this is also a time for change, for collaboration, and for renewed focus on the sport we all love. From players and umpires to coaches, volunteers and supporters – every part of our netball ecosystem in Wales matters. Together, we can build a stronger, more sustainable future. Your support now will help us inspire the next generation and secure our place on the international stage.”

Cath Hares, Chair of Wales Netball, said “The Wales Netball board remains hopeful, through collaboration and shared commitment with our partners and stakeholders, that a positive route forward can be secured, which strengthens our financial position and delivers on our strategic ambitions.”

This period of change also includes a broader review of how the organisation operates and engages with its members. As part of this, Wales Netball will be holding an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on 30 July to consult on future plans for membership to ensure the sport is positioned for long-term growth.

“The EGM is a vital step in strengthening our foundations as a governing body,” added Cath. “It is about ensuring our membership model reflects the needs of today’s netball community and supports our ambition to grow the game across Wales.”

To discuss commercial opportunities or explore ways to support netball in Wales, please contact commercial@walesnetball.com