UWWNC: A Year of Performance, Purpose, and Pride

The University of Warwick Women’s Netball Club (UWWNC) has long been a community of talent, friendship and team spirit, and this year the club has gone above and beyond both on and off the court. With standout performances, meaningful charity work, and a deepened commitment to inclusivity, 2024-25 has been a defining year for the club.

On the competitive front, UWWNC’s Performance Squad delivered an impressive season, finishing 4th in the Midlands Tier 2A league – an achievement made even more remarkable given that eight of last year’s 10 players graduated. Led by new Performance Captain Tori Fisher, the team is embracing a dynamic ‘work hard, play hard’ approach, creating a culture that prioritises both excellence and enjoyment. With the club trialling high-level regional coaches and completing performance applications, UWWNC is clearly setting its sights on promotion.

As a sports club of successful women in higher education, we understand the importance of acknowledging our privilege, as well as highlighting issues that resonate with us specifically

Maisie Renshaw Club President

It wasn’t just the Performance Squad that impressed. The BUCS threes Team achieved 1st place in the Midlands Tier 5A league, a reward for their determination and resilience throughout the season. Meanwhile, the Development squad won six out of nine competitive university matches, showcasing talent and consistency. The club has also continued to foster campus-wide participation through its Saturday League, now featuring 20 different society teams, providing opportunities for players of all levels to get involved.

But UWWNC’s impact extends far beyond match results. The club has made charity and community outreach a cornerstone of its identity. In the words of the new Club President Maisie Renshaw: “As a sports club of successful women in higher education, we understand the importance of acknowledging our privilege, as well as highlighting issues that resonate with us specifically.”

UWWNC hosted a body image discussion panel alongside other women’s sport clubs – opening space for an honest conversation about the image-pressured world of sport

That awareness has translated into action. UWWNC raised over £660 for Helping Hands through its Annual Charity Tournament, sent 14 shoeboxes to children through the Samaritans Shoebox Appeal, and organised pink training sessions for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. During Purple Week, they raised over £400 for PAPYRUS, a suicide prevention charity. And in the middle of exam season, eight committed members laced up their trainers for the Pretty Muddy 5k, raising money for Cancer Research UK.

The club’s charitable initiatives also intersect with its strong push for diversity and inclusion. UWWNC hosted a body image discussion panel alongside other women’s sport clubs – opening space for an honest conversation about the image-pressured world of sport. They also introduced eight sober socials, including sip-and-paint and tote bag decorating sessions, a 200% increase from the previous year.

With new leadership in place and a vibrant, inclusive culture already flourishing, the future of the club looks brighter than ever

Looking ahead, UWWNC has exciting plans to celebrate Pride Month, including educational content on being an ally and LGBTQ+ history, alongside a mystery fundraising event. These initiatives reflect the club’s commitment to building not just strong athletes, but strong communities.

As the academic year draws to a close, it’s clear UWWNC has had a season to be proud of. With new leadership in place and a vibrant, inclusive culture already flourishing, the future of the club looks brighter than ever. As a member of the club, it’s been a fantastic year to be involved. With the passion and vision of the new exec team, next year promises to be even better!