Netball NI Launch Digital Learning Hub With Sport NI!

👉 ACCESS DIGITAL LEARNING HUB HERE👈

Sport NI Digital Learning Hub creates accessible learning opportunities for sport

Sporting organisations, coaches, officials and volunteers are set to benefit from a major new learning resource thanks to investment by Sport NI.

Sport NI’s Digital Learning Hub offers an accessible platform for learners within the sports sector to enhance and develop their knowledge and skills. Learners can complete courses in their own time and at their own pace, logging in at home or on the go via the app. 

“With the launch of our Digital Learning Hub, we are ushering in a new era of education within Sport NI,” said Richard Archibald, Interim CEO, Sport NI. “This initiative not only enhances accessibility and flexibility but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the sporting community.”

Accessible via smartphones, tablets and laptops, the hub allows users to fit learning around their daily commitments.

There are currently 24 courses available to complete with six more in development. The courses cover a wide range of topics curated by internal experts, subject matter experts, and esteemed partners including the Open University and SportScotland. From coaching techniques to sports development strategies, learners can explore diverse concepts relevant to their roles in making sport happen across Northern Ireland.

The hub also serves as a digital community for the sector, providing a platform to share resources and communicate with peers. Five national governing bodies of sport including Ulster Hockey, Ulster Badminton, Disability Sport NI, Netball NI, and North West Cricket Union have created their own learning spaces within the Hub, with specialised courses directly aligned to their specific requirements.

Rebecca Hope, Head of Workforce at Netball NI said,

“Our goal is to make learning as accessible and flexible as possible for our members, particularly for those balancing family and work commitments.

“By embracing digital learning, we empower individuals to engage with educational content on their own terms, at their own pace, and in a comfortable environment that suits their needs.”

To date the Hub has over 500 registered users with this number set to grow as more courses become available.

Richard Archibald continued,

“The response to our Digital Learning Hub has been overwhelmingly positive. Our partnership-driven approach ensures that learners at all levels have access to a wide range of development opportunities, equipping the sporting community with the tools it needs to thrive.”

As the project continues to evolve, Sport NI remains committed to expanding its partnership network, developing new digital learning opportunities, and providing valuable resources for individuals dedicated to advancing sports at all levels.

For access to the hub and registration, please visit www.sportlearningni.com

For inquiries, contact digitallearning@sportni.net

👉 ACCESS DIGITAL LEARNING HUB HERE👈

Mike’s Marathon Des Sables, 2024!

Netball NI S&C Coach Mike Bentley is taking on the unimaginable challenge of the Marathon Des Sables, a gruelling 250km journey through the unforgiving Sahara desert.

This race is not for the faint-hearted, with temperatures soaring to 45-50 degrees, treacherous terrain including roads, gravel, rocks, mountains, and sand dunes, and the added challenge of carrying all supplies for the entire event – food, medical, clothes, sleeping bag, you name it. The only luxury is a shared tent and rationed water at the end of each stage. 🌡️💪

He is running to raise awareness and funds for the awesome ‘Hope For Children’ that provides opportunities and supports so many children in need across the world.

If you would like to support Mike, and Hope For Children, you can click here.

We had a chance to catch up with Mike before he heads off on his challenge on Wednesday 10th April, see below what he had to say!

What inspired you to take on the challenge of a 250km race across the Sahara desert?

My inspiration is my family firstly, and all those that have supported me, I want to make them proud. Secondly seeing the work Hope For Children are doing giving children a chance at a childhood inspires me, what those children go through everyday just to survive and keep going is inspirational. I also want to see how far I can push my body, how far I can challenge my self mentally and physically. This is one of the ultimate challenges in the world, in one of the harshest climates and is known as the toughest or one of the toughest races in the world.

Can you describe the preparations you’ve undertaken both physically and mentally for such an extreme endurance event?

I have spent a lot of time running!! My weekly running mileage has been anywhere from 100km a week to 190km a week, I have also managed to keep on track of my gym sessions which have been 2-3 gym sessions a week and on average 2 hot yoga sessions a week. Mentally I have spent a lot of time in my own head good and bad, tried to find ways to cope with difficult situations. I have been fortunate enough to have 2 awesome coaches that I have worked with who have helped me physically and mentally prepare. I have tried to put myself in situations I might find myself in out the in the desert. I think I have turned over every rock to be as prepared as possible. I have spent a lot of time cycling in saunas to try and get acclimatised to the heat and used to sweating a lot. As well as preparing my nutrition so that I know what will suit me when I am out there

What kind of terrain and weather conditions are you expecting to encounter during the race, and how do you plan to navigate through them?

The conditions of the race are pretty extreme, temperatures can be anywhere from 35 to 50+ degrees. The terrains we will be racing over will vary from sand dunes, dried out salt lakes, rocky roads, mountains and gravel. On top of this we have to carry all of our food and a supplies. The only thing provided by the race is rationed water and open air Berber tents. I am expecting it to be hot and uncomfortable. I will lather up in sunscreen try and stay as hydrated as possible with water, electrolytes and loads of salt to help with water absorption and retention.

How do you manage your hydration and nutrition during such a long-distance race in a desert environment?

I plan on having 2 x 750ml bottles one for electrolytes and one for water, aiming to keep my salt levels high and setting a timer on my watch to make sure I am eating and drinking regularly through out each stage

What are some of the biggest challenges you anticipate facing during the race, and how do you plan to overcome them?

The biggest challenge I think is going to be dehydration and foot care. Those are two things that I have pretty strict routines for after each day. And during each day. Make sure I am taking on enough fluids and making sure my feet are well looked after. Some of the pictures and stories from previous competitors tell a gruesome tail lol

Can you share any previous experiences or races that have prepared you for this particular challenge?

I have completed an Ironman and a couple of marathons. But I have never done anything of this scale before!! This is all new to me, a true challenge

How do you stay motivated and focused during the grueling moments of the race, especially considering the vastness and harshness of the desert landscape?

There are going to be some really really tough moments. The biggest thing will be to remember my “why”…. My why is my family and all the people that have supported me, that will keep me going, the charity I am running for and all the children the money I have raised will help. Those are big motivators for me and I know when it gets tough I can lean into those things.

Are there any specific strategies or techniques you employ to pace yourself throughout the race and ensure you have enough energy to finish strong?

My race strategy at the moment is to combine running and walking, trying to run for 20mins walk for 10mins, eat every 20 mins, and take it one check point at a time. I am also carrying with me about 3000 cals a day which should be just about enough to refuel me for the next stage, I hope!

Given the extreme nature of this challenge, are there any safety measures or precautions you’ve put in place to mitigate risks along the way?

Not really any specific measures, I will hopefully recover well each day and spend time after each stage recovering and trying to get my body back to neutral to hopefully minimise injury risk. Keep hydrated and keep the food coming in so that I can compete.

For those who are inspired by your journey and wish to support your cause or contribute to your efforts, how can they donate or offer their support?

I am raising money for Hope For Children who are a fantastic charity that provide so many wonderful opportunities for children who have nothing to succeed and have a childhood. I am fortunate to have had a wonderful childhood with many opportunities given to me by my family, being a dad I am able to hopefully do the same for my children but unfortunately not all children get to have a childhood and that’s what Hope for children is doing. Offering hope to so many children that may not have hope, if people or companies would like to make a donation or contribution I would be hugely grateful, they can find my page below.

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Mike-Bentley5

You can also track me live:

https://www.marathondessables.com/en

Any messages of support are always welcome and can find me at instagram @mikebentleysc

Now Recruiting: Here If You Need Officer

Netball NI is seeking to increase our delivery staff team by recruiting a Here if You Need Officer to support the increasing demand for coaching our sport across NI. The delivery focused role, will work closely with our development team to provide professional, engaging, and sustainable netball provision to the wider netball community, helping increase our footprint, develop our relationships and build the profile of the business.

The successful candidate will be required to attend a range of daytime, evening and occasional weekend events across Northern Ireland.

HIYN Job Advert

HIYN Job Description & Personal Specification

CV and covering letter detailing how you meet the essential criteria should be emailed to admin@netballni.org

Closing date for applications is Monday 18th March 4pm

Netball Northern Ireland is an equal opportunity employer.

Netball NI Awards 2024: Back To The Galgorm For An Unforgettable Night!

Link for Tickets: https://forms.office.com/e/v8xgknnfLm

Link for NNI Individual award nominations – https://forms.office.com/e/VtzBKv1gvg

Link for NNI Club and Team Award Nominations – https://forms.office.com/e/xEhHUAC74V

Link for Moya McVeigh Hall of Fame Award Nominations – https://forms.office.com/e/aRgQRVG9Ke

BUS ENQUIRY: email Rachel on admin@netballni.org by 10th May.

Prepare for an evening of celebration, honouring individuals and beautiful locale as Netball Northern Ireland’s prestigious Awards Night returns to the illustrious setting of Galgorm Resort and Spa. After the resounding success of last year’s event, we are gearing up to honour the outstanding achievements of our netball stars, league victors, and trailblazers who continue to shape netball’s landscape in Northern Ireland.

The Netball NI Awards Night will pay tribute to League winners and the excellence within our sport.  It will honour remarkable individuals who volunteer so much of their time to keep our club and school netball going as well as embrace our legacy following the unveiling of the esteemed Moya McVeigh Hall of Fame last year. We will once again pay tribute to those whose indelible mark on netball in Northern Ireland will forever be etched in history.

Netball NI invites you to be a part of this extraordinary celebration, an event that not only honours the achievements of our netball stars but also ignites the flame of inspiration in the hearts of future generations. Together, let’s celebrate excellence, embrace legacy, and pave the way for a future where netball continues to thrive and inspire.

We are Netball NI, and we really are #strongesttogether

BUS ENQUIRY: email Rachel on admin@netballni.org by 10th May.

Link for Tickets: https://forms.office.com/e/v8xgknnfLm

Link for NNI Individual award nominations – https://forms.office.com/e/VtzBKv1gvg

Link for NNI Club and Team Award Nominations – https://forms.office.com/e/xEhHUAC74V

Link for Moya McVeigh Hall of Fame Award Nominations – https://forms.office.com/e/aRgQRVG9Ke

League Season Heating up!

As we come close to the end of another successful League Season, it’s a time to reflect on the year and look ahead to the promotions and relegations with the Netball NI League structure.

Not sure where your team is currently sitting in your league? Check out the league fixtures here.

Check out the Illustration of promotion/relegation and PLAY OFF details for finish of season 23-24 document below…

NNI CWG 23-24 Season Promo-releg-play offs illustration

Northern Ireland select U21 Squad for 2024

23 athletes have been selected for the U21 squad for the 2024 season, led by newly appointed Head Coach, Sachel Grant, and Assistant Coach, Lisa Bowman. This squad will be working towards World Youth Cup Qualifiers in Cardiff in September 2024.

The squad consists of 10 athletes who currently sit in the Emerging Warriors and Warriors programme, 9 athletes currently on our Pathway (U17-U21), and 4 new athletes.

Northern Ireland U21 Head Coach, Sachel Grant, is delighted with the selected squad

I was impressed with the standard and effort from everyone who attended the selection weekend, as well as the U21 staff group. We cannot wait to get going and be ready to qualify for the World Youth Cup.

Over the coming months, the squad will be together for regular camps and pushing themselves in competition to develop connections on and off the court.

Warriors Head Coach, Sheonah Forbes, commented

I am really excited to see this squad come together, where we have a range of athlete graduating through the pathway. We are committed to developing the provision within our pathway to ensure that we have international athletes ready at the right time.

Keep up to date with the squads journey on our social media.

Name Club/Franchise Court Area
Alex Martin* Concordia Netball Club, NE Phoenix Circle Attack
Alice O’Brien Exeter NC, Exeter University Netball Club Mid Court
Ana Mulholland Crumlin Community Netball Club Circle Defence
Anna Rice Crumlin Community Netball Club Circle Attack
Catelyn Burns NE Phoenix, University Netball Club Mid Court
Erin Watson Belfast Ladies Netball Club Mid Court
Erin Young Belfast Ladies Netball Club Circle Defence
Eva Ramsey Crumlin Community Netball Club Circle Attack
Eva Scott Antrim Ladies Netball Club Circle Defence
Eva Wilson Belfast Ladies Netball Club Circle Attack
Evelyn McCagherty Weston Park Blades NC, Central Warriors Mid Court
Evie McCafferty Clann Eireann Netball Club Circle Defence
Georgia Miller Valley Netball Club Mid Court
Isabella Paas Hatfield Netball Club, University of Leicester Netball Club Circle Defence
Jill Smiley YMCA Magic NC, Leeds University Netball Club Circle Attack
Joy Ebbinghaus Donaghadee Netball Club Circle Attack
Lisa Carlin NE Phoenix, Northumbria University Netball Club Circle Defence
Mia Lanigan YWCA Bury, Leeds Rhinos Mid Court
Mica Quinn Central Warriors Mid Court
Orla McGeough Manchester Thunder, Liverpool University Netball Club Mid Court
Rosa McCloskey Kingsway Netball Club Circle Attack
Tillie Irvine Saracens Mavericks, Hertfordshire University Netball Club Circle Defence
Zoe Maynard  Team Bath, Mavericks Netball Club Mid Court

*subject to fitness

Tracked Athletes who will attend parts of the programme;

Aoibheann Donnelly (Mid Court, Crumlin Community Netball Club)

Annie Elliott (Mid Court, Banbridge Netball Club)

IC Powder Coaters Ltd partner with Netball Northern Ireland U17 Athlete

As we are in the midst of a busy domestic season we are delighted to announce a new supporter of Netball NI and local metal powder coating business IC Powder Coaters Ltd.

A long-standing advocate of Northern Ireland sport IC Powder Coaters Ltd is expanding its portfolio of support, becoming a partner of one of Netball NI’s U17 athletes, Marleigh Coster as she prepares to compete in the U17 European Championships.

IC Powder Coaters Ltd, established in 1985, is a significant Northern Ireland supplier of powder coating services. With a commitment to quality, quick and reliable turnaround times and competitive pricing – made possible by their highly cost-efficient operation, their focus on customer service has ensured a loyal customer base with glowing testimonials.

Ivor Carter, IC Powdew Coaters Ltd

We are delighted to support Netball Northern Ireland, and in particular the U17’s group, who are working hard to prepare for their European Championships. We are passionate about encouraging girls to be active and healthy, embracing competition and look forward to supporting netballers within this age group as they begin their national representation journey.

Helen Stirling, Chair of Netball Northern Ireland:

We are delighted to bring IC Powder Coating on board as a Netball NI partner. Netball in Northern Ireland is growing in profile and increasing our relationships with new industries will support us as we work hard for further growth and exposure to our sport.

Netball NI welcome Rachel Barr

Netball NI are delighted to announce a new addition to our staff team as we welcome Rachel Barr into the role of Administration and Events Officer. Rachel commenced her role this week and will become a regular contact for our netball family. 

With extensive experience across all areas of administration in Netball, following many years working with England Netball in the North East, Rachel comes to the business not only with an understanding of the needs of the role, but with a fresh view and approach to our work with ideas and processes that can be implemented to strengthen our service delivery for our membership and to attract new participants. 

 Karen Rollo-Stewart, Executive Manager

I’m thrilled to have Rachel on board, her passion for female sport combined with her knowledge and experience in netball, is a huge boost to the offering we can provide as a staff team. We created the new role with a clear remit to provide a more professional user experience for our members and other stakeholders, and to provide further support for our current staff to deliver more effectively in their roles. Rachel’s impactwill be seen across the business and she has already become a friendly face and sounding board within the team.

 Rachel Barr, Admin & Events Officer 

I am delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to this esteemed organisation, at the forefront of advancing women’s sport. I am eager to commence my journey with Netball Northern Ireland, I am hoping to add value to an already exceptional team.

 We wish Rachel the best of luck of her role and know our netball family will make her very welcome. 

Now Recruiting U21 Team Manager

Netball NI are now recruiting for the position of U21 Team Manager.

Check out the job description below for more information on this exciting role.

Deadline to apply is 22 January 2024 at 12 noon.

To apply, please send CV and Covering Letter to Meg Wallace at performancecoordinator@netballni.org

NNI U21 Team Manager Job Description

Under 21 Coaching Team Appointed

Netball Northern Ireland are delighted to announce the appointment of our U21 Coaching Team that will prepare the squad for the upcoming World Youth Cup Qualifiers in September. 

Sachel Grant, will lead the management team as Head Coach, with Lisa Bowman taking up the Assistant Coach role. 

Sachel, will be known to many with her extensive experience at Netball Superleague Franchise, Saracens Mavericks. As Mavericks Pathway Lead for seven years and U21 Head Coach for four years, Sachel brings a wealth of knowledge to the role and an understanding of the programme required to support and develop athletes and teams at this stage in the performance pathway to achieve success and provide longevity and sustainability. 

Lisa, no stranger to anyone in Netball in NI, will be supporting Sachel as Assistant Coach alongside a new role for our performance programme in Northern Ireland, as National Technical Coach. This will include working alongside the Warriors Coaching team as well as across the underage pathway in her specialist capacity.  

The appointments align fully with the Warriors Vision that has been created by our senior squad and management team; 

  • Legacy – To inspire and pave the way for those aspiring to be a Warrior, as well those pioneering to grow the game in NI.  
  • Visibility – Celebrating the success of the Warriors pathway & Netball in NI together, as well as increasing our voice amongst the world’s best. 
  • Warriors – Built with Heart, Play with Grit 

Sachel is an excellent coach and person who I have no doubt will continue to drive the U21 programme forward in 2024. With the World Youth Cup Qualifiers in September this year, Sachel’s experience working in this age group will be paramount to the success of the group.  

I am really excited to develop the Technical Coach role with Lisa who will sit in the vital assistant coach role with the U21 group alongside Sachel, as well as delivering in the Warriors environment. Lisa’s knowledge and continual passion for the development of the Warriors is infectious and I cannot wait to continue to see her grow on the international scene.

I look forward to working with the coaches with the same drive of developing our future senior Warrior athletes.

Sheonah Forbes – Warriors Head Coach

We wish the coaches the best of luck as they begin the new programme and know our Netball Family here in Northern Ireland and beyond, will be behind them.