From their arrival in Manchester to their departure from London, the tour was packed with professional development, tough competition, and plenty of fun along the way.
The first stop was Manchester, where the group hit the ground running. They played two competitive matches against DNA Netball Club and YWCA Bury Netball Club, gaining valuable insight into the UK netball scene. Their training included a self-led session as well as a professional coaching clinic with Manchester Thunder player Elmerè van der Berg. Off the court, the players enjoyed exploring the vibrant city and indulged in some retail therapy at the iconic Trafford Centre. A major highlight was watching Manchester Thunder take on Leeds Rhinos in a thrilling Super League match, providing inspiration and a deeper understanding of the English style of play.
Before heading to Loughborough, the group made a stop at Alton Towers, one of the UK’s most popular theme parks—a perfect way to unwind and inject some fun into their packed schedule. The team then arrived at the prestigious Loughborough University, staying at the Elite Athlete Centre. Known for its world-class sporting facilities, Loughborough offered a unique opportunity for the players to experience life as elite student-athletes. They participated in a high-level coaching session led by Vic Burgess, Head Coach of Super League champions Loughborough Lightning, and took part in a Performance Lifestyle Workshop. Competitive matches against Loughborough Lightning youth teams further pushed the players’ skills and resilience. The visit concluded with a sweet stop at Cadbury World en route to London—a crowd favourite among the group.
The London leg of the tour was equally packed with exceptional experiences both on and off the court. The team stayed at the Copthorne Tara Hotel in High Street Kensington, where they reunited with the football and hockey teams. Sightseeing highlights included the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and a special Easter Sunday visit to St Abbots Church. A walking tour through the heart of London allowed the students to see Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and culminated with a ride on the London Eye—undoubtedly a highlight for many. Of course, no trip to London would be complete without some shopping, and the students made the most of their time exploring the city’s renowned retail destinations.
On the netball front, the players continued to grow and thrive. They had the opportunity to watch a Super League clash between London Pulse and Manchester Thunder, a fast-paced and inspiring match that ended in victory for London Pulse. A standout training session with former Australian Diamond Karyn Bailey focused on developing defensive techniques and new tactical plays. These newly acquired skills were quickly put to the test in their next game against Kingston High School, where both Dio Tika and Dio Pono teams earned well-deserved victories. Their final game in London, against Bromley Girls High School, showcased some of the highest-level netball of the tour, marking a strong finish to an extraordinary journey.
The UK Netball Tour proved to be an exceptional experience. From competing against talented teams and training with elite coaches to exploring new cities and strengthening team bonds, every moment contributed to the players’ development both on and off the court. It was a tour filled with inspiration, laughter, and lasting memories—shared in some of the world’s most iconic sporting and cultural locations, and with the very best company.
