Men’s and Mixed Netball in the UK: A Game on the Rise (and Even Stormzy is Getting Involved)

The Rise of Men’s and Mixed Netball in the UK

Something really exciting is happening in netball right now—and it’s hard to ignore.

Men’s and Mixed Netball in the UK is growing faster than ever. What used to sit quietly on the sidelines is now stepping firmly into the spotlight, with more players, more teams and more opportunities popping up all over the country.

Whether you’re someone who played years ago, a complete beginner, or a parent watching your child fall in love with the game—there’s a real sense that this is just the beginning.

England Men’s Team Making Their Mark

If you needed proof that things are changing, the England A Men’s team has given it.

Bringing home a silver medal from the Nations Series in Singapore, they showed that England can now compete with netball powerhouses like Australia and New Zealand—countries that have been developing men’s and mixed netball for decades.

It’s not just a good result—it’s a statement.

From 14 Teams to 48: Growth That Feels Real

England’s men’s and mixed netball journey might be relatively new—but it’s moving quickly.

The governing body, EMMNA, was only formed in 2019. Just seven months later, England’s Thorns stepped onto court for their first international match.

Fast forward a few years, and the growth is hard to believe:

That’s not just growth on paper—you can feel it in clubs, in training sessions, and in the energy around the game.

Even Stormzy is Shining a Light on the Game

The buzz isn’t just staying within the netball community anymore.

With Stormzy recently reported to have joined a men’s netball team in London, the sport is reaching new audiences and breaking old stereotypes.

And moments like this matter.

They get people talking. They make others curious. And they help show that netball isn’t “just one thing”—it’s a sport for everyone.

Raising the Standard Across the Game

One of the most exciting parts of this growth is how it’s improving the game as a whole.

England’s men’s squads are now being welcomed into elite women’s training environments. Their speed, strength and unpredictability bring a completely different challenge—one that pushes even the most experienced players to adapt.

It’s competitive, it’s fast, and it’s helping raise standards across the board.

Thinking About Getting Involved? Now’s the Time

If you’ve ever thought about playing (or getting back into it), there’s honestly never been a better moment.

Whether you’re:

There are more opportunities than ever.

The EMMNA website is a great place to start, with Club Search to see what’s happening near you & to find a team

You might be surprised how much is going on just around the corner.

Why We’re So Excited at NetballX

For us, this isn’t just a trend—it’s something we genuinely love seeing.

Men’s and Mixed Netball in the UK is building real momentum. It’s inclusive, it’s evolving, and it’s opening doors for more people to enjoy the game in their own way.

And that’s exactly what netball should be.

At NetballX, we’re proud to be part of that journey—supporting players, families and the wider community as the game continues to grow.