Introducing New Head of Netball, Gemma Crawley

How did you start playing Netball?

I first tried Netball at my primary school when I was 8 years old. I had a fab PE teacher who was really inspiring and I was hooked from day one! My first big competition was playing in the London Youth Games when I was 11 and then I entered the Surrey County pathway and played in BUCS when I attended University. I started coaching at university and have continued all through my life.

What do you like about the game?

The main thing I love about Netball is how I have grown up with it evolving into the fast-paced and physical game it is today. I enjoy the strong emphasis on teamwork and working in units all through the court. Similarly to other team sports, it provides the foundations for new friendships, builds resilience, and aids an active and healthy lifestyle. It's also going through a huge shift currently with the inaugural Netball Super League 2.0, which is launching in 2025.

How do you plan to inspire the students in the game? What do you look for in great Netball players?

I am so excited to be involved in Lingfield Sport and lead the Netball programme. I am already seeing the wide range of sporting talents the girls here have and I am enjoying getting to know them and what makes them tick.

I am pleased to hear so many of the girls are part of CD Phoenix Netball Club, as this was the first club I joined when I moved to Sussex, and I played in their senior regional squad. So, I plan to support and nurture girls already engaged in their Netball journey, as well as introduce the wonderful game to those who maybe haven't had the best early experience—whether girls want to play at the highest level they can or play for fun and enjoyment.

What advice do you have for young netball players?

Netball provision within Surrey, Kent, and Sussex is extensive, so joining a club would be the first step. I can help signpost new players to clubs that cater to their needs. Strength and conditioning, agility work, and sprinting are all important to complement a netball player's development. So much is online for tips and tricks to perform things at home, and of course, attending lunchtime and after-school clubs here at school.

There are plenty of opportunities for players to compete in the Lingfield Co-Curricular Programme.