Netball classes are about more than just sports coaching; they are also a social activity that brings people of all ages and abilities together to learn, keep fit, and form new friendships. Unfortunately, many people stop participating in netball or other sports as soon as they leave school, and never return to it.
A new scheme organised by Netball England is helping people to rediscover their love for the sport, or to try it for the first time. ‘Back to Netball’ is a way to stay active and meet new friends, and can be particularly helpful for people who are trying to settle into a new community away from their loved ones.
One participant of the scheme, Louise, explains how finding Back to Netball helped her to recover from a spiral of anxiety and depression following a move to Exeter during the Covid pandemic.
Louise said: “Unfortunately, I started to get into a cycle of anxiety and depression where I lost a lot of confidence in myself including getting out and meeting people which led to me feeling very lonely. It had been 3 years since moving and I felt like I hadn’t moved forward at all in building my ‘new life’ in Devon.”
She adds: “Anyway, I was browsing away on my phone, and I happened to see this Back to Netball advert, and I was immediately drawn in to find out more. I’ve always enjoyed being active and being with people so already it ticked a few boxes for me.”
Louise explains that the emphasis was on fun with no pressure to be super-competitive. She blossomed in the welcoming and supportive atmosphere, and netball is now a regular part of her life, helping her to socialise, exercise, and manage her mental health.
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