Nottingham Forest Netball is set to make a historic debut in the Netball Super League (NSL), marking a significant milestone in UK sports. As the first Premier League football club to affiliate with a netball team, Forest is poised to create a new legacy in the sport under the guidance of head coach Chelsea Pitman.

The Road to Professionalisation

The revamped NSL, starting with the Netball Super Cup on 8th March, introduces new rules and two new franchises, including Nottingham Forest. The league is taking steps toward professionalisation, aiming to make netball a viable career path for players. Despite the challenges, Pitman is committed to bringing insights from her experience in Australia’s Super Netball League to the UK.

Building a Multi-Sport Franchise

Forest’s entry into the NSL is part of a broader vision to develop a multi-sport model. While the netball team benefits from the club’s professional infrastructure, Pitman emphasizes the importance of carving out a unique identity for the netball side. Defender Tash Pavelin highlights the supportive environment, stating, "We really feel like they're invested in us."

Challenges and Opportunities

Although the league is moving towards professionalisation, many players still juggle jobs or studies due to salary caps. Captain Naimh Cooper, who works part-time as a doctor, expressed her desire for full-time netball opportunities. Meanwhile, Pavelin, who has paused her accounting career, reflects on the sacrifices made by her family to support her journey.

A New Audience for Netball

Forest’s involvement brings netball to a broader audience, with players engaging with football fans through social media and public appearances. Pitman’s half-time pitch talk during a Premier League match exemplifies this crossover, aiming to attract new supporters to the netball team.

As Nottingham Forest Netball prepares to take the court, the team is focused on building a legacy that transcends the boundaries of traditional sports franchises.