Netbal Nederland Announced as Full Member of Europe Netball

Historic milestone recognises over a decade of growth and development of netball in the Netherlands 

Amsterdam, Netherlands – 8 July 2026 – Netbal Nederland is proud to announce that it has been approved for Full Membership of Europe Netball, marking a historic milestone in the development of netball in the Netherlands and recognising more than ten years of commitment to building the sport across the country.

The approval reflects the sustained efforts of clubs, volunteers, coaches, officials and players who have worked together to establish strong foundations for netball in the Netherlands. Since the sport's introduction and expansion across the Netherlands, the focus has remained firmly on building a connected national netball community and developing a strong domestic competition that brings clubs together from across the country.

This collaborative approach has resulted in the establishment of a thriving national league and a network of clubs committed to growing and developing the sport collectively.

As the sport enters its next phase of development, Netbal Nederland has also launched its National Team Training Programme in 2026, creating a pathway for elite athlete development and future international representation. The programme represents a significant step forward in strengthening performance standards and preparing Dutch athletes to compete on the European and world stage.

"Becoming a Full Member of Europe Netball is a monumental step forward for Netbal Nederland. This milestone comes at a time when the sport is growing globally, and we are so excited to join the broader Europe Netball family. We look forward to harnessing this momentum to accelerate our training pathways, deepen our support for clubs, and elevate competition domestically as we enter Nederland onto the world stage. We are incredibly grateful to our own netball family; our dedicated players, volunteers and clubs, whose tireless work has brought Netbal Nederland to this next chapter," said Delle Benton, Director of Netball Nederland

Welcoming the announcement, Europe Netball Chair Catherine Lewis said:

"Europe Netball are delighted to announce that Netball Netherlands has officially become a Full Member of Europe Netball. This milestone reflects the dedication, growth, and commitment of the Dutch netball community, and marks an important step in the continued development of our sport across the region. We look forward to working closely with Netball Netherlands as they continue to strengthen and expand opportunities for players, coaches, officials, and volunteers throughout the country. Please join us in congratulating Netball Netherlands on this fantastic achievement and welcoming them as a Full Member of the Europe Netball family."

Full Membership provides Netball Nederland with enhanced opportunities for participation within the European netball community, including access to development programmes, competitions, governance initiatives and collaborative opportunities that will support the continued growth of the sport.

Looking ahead, Netball Nederland remains committed to expanding participation, strengthening clubs, developing officials and coaches, and creating clear pathways for athletes from grassroots to international competition.

About Netbal Nederland

Netbal Nederland is the national governing body for netball in the Netherlands. Established in 2020 following more than a decade of grassroots development, the organisation is responsible for the governance, promotion and development of netball throughout the country. Netbal Nederland works with clubs, athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers to grow participation and create opportunities for excellence at all levels of the sport.

Contact

info@netbalnederland.nl