Netball has undergone a dramatic transformation since its introduction in the late 19th century. Initially conceived in the Victorian era as a modest pastime to enhance the physical fitness of young ladies and prepare them for marriage and motherhood, the game was played in ankle-length skirts and was devoid of any strenuous physical contact. Early critiques suggested the sport could distract women from domestic duties, while proponents claimed it fostered grace, character, and a positive attitude.
This early iteration, a sedate, no-contact adaptation of basketball, first appeared in the United States and later evolved in England. The blueprint for the modern game was established in 1895 at Madame Ostenburg’s women’s physical institute in West Hampstead before spreading throughout the Commonwealth. Early Australian versions even featured makeshift equipment like broomsticks and washing baskets.
A Modern Powerhouse
Today, elite netball bears little resemblance to its origins. The game is characterized by high-speed, agile athletes engaged in intense competition. With 20 million women and girls playing internationally, netball is the largest female team participation sport globally. The sport is set to take center stage at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, where the Scottish Thistles will compete against top-tier squads including Jamaica, England, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
Despite its global reach, netball is not yet an Olympic sport, making the Commonwealth Games and the Netball World Cup its primary international premier events. Iona Christian, a 28-year-old illustrator and mother of one who plays for the Scottish Thistles, noted the team's resilience, comparing them to their namesake, the thistle, a flower known for thriving in harsh conditions. "When you come up against a Thistle on a netball court it’s never going to be an easy battle," she stated.
The Commonwealth Games represent a significant opportunity for netball, providing a platform to showcase the sport's skill, speed, and athleticism to a global audience. Dr. Tina Karaitana, President of Netball New Zealand, described the Games as an essential "pinnacle event" for high-performance teams, emphasizing its importance for the sport's sustainability and legacy.
Balancing Elite Sport and Life
Elite netballers often balance demanding careers and family life with their athletic commitments. Christian, for example, juggles her sport with her career as an illustrator and raising her two-year-old son, with support from her family. The Scottish Thistles team comprises individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, including undergraduates, lawyers, doctors, and accountants.
Captain Emily Nicholl anticipates an emotional experience participating in the opening ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, with the home crowd expected to provide a strong atmosphere. "There is no better crowd than the Scots and the roof will be coming off the Hydro with the roar of them," Nicholl said.
Evolution of Men's Netball
While netball has traditionally been a women's sport, men have competed since the 1980s, although it remains relatively niche. Male and mixed netball leagues are growing in countries like Australia, England, South Africa, and Scotland, though male teams are not currently included in the Commonwealth Games.
To prepare for major tournaments, teams like the Scottish Thistles often train against male players, who can offer a different physical challenge due to potential advantages in size and strength. However, elite female netballers are known for their strength and agility, with some able to lift up to 100kg. Nicholl commented on these training sessions, stating, "A lot of the men are really big so that’s great practice for us. I love playing them and we can match up against them. More often than not it’s the men who end up falling on the floor rather than us."
The selection of Glasgow to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games, after Victoria, Australia withdrew, has provided a significant boost, with netball designated as one of the event's marquee sports. Tickets for the netball events at the Hydro arena are available for purchase.