Manchester Thunder to launch integrated Men’s and Mixed netball teams, setting a new standard for inclusivity, growth and talent development within the sport.
Manchester Thunder, the four-time Netball Super League (NSL) champions, are delighted to announce an agreement with Manchester Spartans netball, that will see the creation of the first fully integrated elite-level Women’s, Men’s and Mixed netball franchise in the world.
Rebranded as Manchester Thunder Men’s and Mixed netball, this agreement represents a landmark moment for the sport of netball, one that recognises the significant strides made by Men’s and Mixed teams both in the UK and globally in advancing the sport’s development, coverage and accessibility.
Founded in 2020, within a short space of time Manchester Spartans has established themselves as one of the country’s leading Men’s and Mixed netball teams, boasting a squad of international players, alongside former England Roses and seasoned NSL professionals. The integration of Manchester Spartans into the Thunder family, provides a foundation for increasing participation, fostering talent and promoting netball as a sport for all.
Gary Young, Commercial Director of Manchester Thunder, said, “I’m so excited to have taken this major step in helping to drive forward the growth of Men’s and Mixed netball. From the second we engaged to explore the potential of combining our respective strengths, it was clear that this was an obvious step to take.”
“I’m really proud that we’re the first elite level franchise to do so and I’m excited to not only see yet another team playing in our famous yellow and black, but to see how we can work to continue growing our amazing sport.”
Caswell Palmer, founder and Head Coach of the new Manchester Thunder Men’s and Mixed netball, expressed his excitement for the future, “Not in my wildest dreams when 4 of my closest netball friends and I decided to start and men’s and mixed netball team, I would have thought that 5 years down the line we would be the first ever franchised men’s and mixed netball team. It just shows you that anything is possible with a lot of hard work and determination.”
“I want to thank Manchester Thunder for taking a chance, investing in this bold move and accepting us into the Thunder family. I’m really looking forward to breaking down even more barriers, making new history and having a lot of fun along the way.”
Finally, Ryan Allan, President of England Men’s and Mixed netball noted, “With the integration into Manchester Thunder, there will be unprecedented training opportunities for the Men’s and Mixed teams alongside the NSL squad, as well as the chance to participate in high-profile Curtain Raiser matches at NSL events. This collaboration will shine a spotlight on the extraordinary sport of netball, showcasing its inclusivity and growth.”
“I’m looking forward to seeing the countless opportunities this partnership will bring, as the members of the combined Manchester Thunder organization works together to elevate the profile of netball in the UK and beyond in the coming years.”