We continue our preview to Team Maccabi GB’s Maccabiah squad by this week looking at the Open netball team, who are looking for success both on and off the court.
April 16, 2025 07:00
Natalie Kenton will once again be taking hold of the managerial reigns, and speaking of the squad at her disposal says: “It was selected after high-standard trials which showcased the exceptional talent of the participants. We began training last September and although we unfortunately lost a few players due to injuries and work commitments, the resilience and dedication of the team have kept our spirits high.
“The Union of Jewish Student’s (UJS) annual netball tournament for university JSoc netball teams has been instrumental in discovering potential Maccabiah players, the tournament allowed us to identify and recruit talent from all over the country.”
Bringing together a mixture of players from across north and south London, Kenton says: “Their commitment and teamwork is remarkable, and they bring a diverse set of skills and experiences to the team, making us confident and excited about our prospects for the Maccabiah.”
Nearly three quarters of the squad have experience of playing netball at previous Maccabi tournaments, amassing two gold and seven silver medals at Maccabiah and Pan American Games between them. The others were spotted at the aforementioned JSoc netball tournaments, held at Nottingham University over the past two years.
Preparations for this summer’s event has seen the squad train every two weeks since September, though the pace will pick up after Pesach. The squad will also be playing in two summer leagues in the run up to the Maccabiah to give them, what Kenton says, will be ‘some much-needed match play alongside their regular training sessions.’
Speaking as to how much the players are looking forward to taking part in Israel, Kenton says: “They’re incredibly excited to take to the court together and truly come together as a cohesive squad. The anticipation of meeting other athletes from across the globe, particularly fellow netballers, adds to the excitement. This event provides a unique opportunity to build connections, share experiences, and understand how normalcy can vary in different parts of the world.
“Being in Israel during this time is especially significant. It offers a chance to show our support in a time of need, and this experience promises to be both enlightening and humbling for all involved. Representing our country on an international stage, while also being a part of something larger than ourselves, is an honour that our players do not take lightly. We hope they return with not only medals but also with a deeper appreciation for the diverse and vibrant global Jewish community.”
The role of head coach is nothing new for Kenton, having held the same role at previous Games. “I feel a profound responsibility to deliver on all fronts and ensure that we perform to the best of our abilities”, she says. “I’m excited at the prospect of doing justice to our great players and showcasing their talents on an international stage. This role allows me to be a part of something greater and contribute to the legacy of netball at the Maccabiah Games.”
As to what her hopes and expectations are for the summer, she says: “They are multi-faceted. Of course, we aim to win and bring home medals, as this would be a tremendous achievement reflecting the hard work and dedication of our players. But beyond the competitive aspect, the social side of the event is equally important. Taking part in the Games provides our players with the unique opportunity to build friendships, share experiences, and compete against fellow Jewish athletes from around the world.
“This experience will broaden their horizons, allowing them to appreciate the diversity and richness of the global Jewish community. It's not just about the medals; it's about the journey, the camaraderie, and the once-in-a-lifetime chance to represent our country. I hope our players return with unforgettable memories, strengthened bonds, and a deeper understanding of their identity and the broader Jewish community.”
Manager: Natalie Kenton
Coach: Helen Haralambous
Team: Isabella Barber, Shira Benjamin, Isabella Bodnar, Charlotte Colton, Daniella Elias, Jessica Nathan, Portia Nicholas-Jago, Hannah Parish, Talia Rich, Rachel Sonn