photo taken from @ldnmavericksnetball on instagram
The modern dress in netball has been worn as part of the uniform since the early 2000’s but in recent years, there has been a change from the tradition. Players from the very top of the game to the grassroots level are starting to dislike the figure-hugging short design that it tends to have.
In 2022, it was said that in the following year, Netball Australia would change to a new “inclusive” uniform including the option to have a singlet, bodysuit, shirt and skirt, shorts or long pants. This would therefore recognise the personnel preferences, religious beliefs and the different climates but in the Commonwealth games, they all wore dresses and this took a turn.
In a game versus England in the Commonwealth Games is where the malfunction first came apparent with many players pulling them down: “I feel like, as a netballer, I’m always tugging my dress down… Obviously we’ve noticed lots of the comments from other people, but on the court we’re used to dresses coming up and down.” says Australian Sophie Garbin.
Netball Uniform has always been a growing problem, whether that is sports bras or different colour shorts under the dress showing a different colour to the dress itself.
England and Manchester Thunder Shooter Eleanor Cardwell has always been an advocate for change in the sport and the use of sports bras with her saying: “When I’m comfortable in my kit, I perform my best. Why should you wear clothes that don’t fit correctly or feel horrible?”
London Mavericks changed confidence for women in the elite level sport as in 2025 it was announced that they would change the way their kit is designed from 2026 onwards. Dresses are still in, with many still wearing the option but they also included the option of shorts, skorts, leggings and longer vests, including a variety for everyone.
The team believe that it will make the sport more welcoming to the young generations that are scared from the sport year after year because of the way that the dress will suit their body type.
Ex-London Mavericks and England defender Razia Quashie said to the BBC that: “I always train in leggings and that’s what I feel most comfortable in, rather than the traditional dress.”
“To be able to wear this on the court in a match is something that I know will help me feel my best, which can only have a positive impact on performance.”
She also stated that the new choice will help the youngsters stay involved, allowing them to dress in a kit that would suit them best rather than an outfit that might be unflattering or uncomfortable, dragging them away from the sport.
Netball is a rapidly growing sport for females and to continue the growth, the uniform needs to be inclusive for everyone involved.
