Team Bath dropped from list of 2025 Netball League franchises
They have issued a statement to fans
Last updated 30th May 2024
Team Bath has confirmed it will not be competing in the Netball Super League in 2025, when the new league launches.
They have written a statement to fans over the decision which has been taken by England Netball, despite the squad saying they have done 'everything we can' to try and secure their future in the league.
It comes amid an update to the requirements, set out by England Netball, who say Team Bath do not meet all of the expected operating standards for the relaunched league.
The squad do say, though, that they remain in talks with the body over the future of the performance pathway in the South West, adding their commitment to building a lasting legacy up and down the region.
'A huge shock'
In a statement on their website, bosses said: "We know that this news will be a huge shock and it’s hard to put into words how heartbroken we are – not just for our players, coaches and staff, but for our fans and the netball community across the southwest.
"As a franchise which is steeped in the history of the league, Team Bath has become synonymous with pushing the boundaries of elite netball. We have enjoyed incredible success over the years, remaining the most successful franchise in the NSL with five Super League titles, and have been the foundation for countless netball careers. Hundreds of players have worn the Blue & Gold dress, with countless individuals having gone on to become legends of the game. Just recently, some of you joined us at the event for the University of Bath’s Hall of Fame for Sport for the induction of Jess Thirlby and Anna Stembridge, joining fellow inductees Lyn Gunson, Pamela Cookey, Stacey Francis and Serena Guthrie.
"As well as producing incredible role models, we also pride ourselves on creating incredible memories and leaving a lasting positive impact on those we interact with. We are blessed to have been able to share special moments with our fans week in and week out, and through our community engagement work we’ve been able to help inspire people of all ages using the power of our sport.
"There are many emotions which we know you may be feeling now: shock, disappointment, sadness, frustration, and we share these with you.
"The players and the staff want to say a huge thank you to you, our fans. The Blue & Gold fans are simply the best in the league. You have shown us your unwavering support over two decades. You have been there to cheer us on, to support us through the highs and through the lows. You’ve shared in the sporting moments which have made Team Bath what it is today, and which have cemented our place in NSL history. You are truly the stars of our Team Bath Netball journey. The indescribable excitement and the incredible atmosphere which welcomes our players week after week into the Team Bath Arena on those ‘Fearless Fridays’ is thanks to you.
"Team Bath Netball is more than a franchise. It is a community; it is its people – players, coaches, partners, sponsors and volunteers; it is its fans."
There are still a number of matches to be played for Team Bath this season - including tomorrow (31 May) over at the Team Bath Arena - when they take on Strathclyde Sirens.
The club say they are also planning a special event in June in the Team Bath Arena.
You can find out more about the tendering process here.