Netball Is Preparing for ‘hollywood Moment’ at 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

Netball’s ‘Hollywood Moment’ at Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

The sport of netball is preparing for a significant milestone in its history, as it prepares to take center stage during the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. This event, described by the players and organizers alike as a ‘Hollywood moment,’ marks an exciting chapter for women’s sports and Scottish representation.

Preparing for the Spotlight

In anticipation of this global spotlight, Netball Scotland has launched The Net Ball campaign, which aims to celebrate the rising stars of netball through a series of high-fashion photoshoots. Inspired by the iconic Hollywood issues of magazines like Vanity Fair, this campaign features seven top Scottish players styled in bespoke couture and photographed by renowned fashion photographer Gerardo Jaconelli.

The selected players include Emily Nicholl, Iona Christian, Jazmine Moore, Emma Barrie, Niamh McCall, Hannah Grant, and Hannah Leighton. This initiative not only aims to elevate the profile of netball but also to inspire a new generation of athletes who embody strength, determination, and professionalism.

Emily Nicholl’s Perspective

In an interview with the publication, Emily Nicholl, captain of the Scottish Thistles, expressed her enthusiasm for this upcoming event. She highlighted that netball is not only high-scoring and fast-paced but also a sport where every player trains and competes like elite athletes, regardless of their professional status.

Nicholl further emphasized the importance of breaking stereotypes surrounding femininity and strength in sports. “The word beast isn’t traditionally feminine, but why shouldn’t it be?” she asked. “I’ve always owned it, and I don’t want girls to shy away from strength.”

Historical Context and Future Prospects

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will feature a total of 144 players from 12 nations competing in netball across 38 matches. This event is set to take place from July 23 to August 2 at Glasgow’s Hydro, where the Scottish team hopes to leave a lasting impression on both local and international audiences.

Nicholl also shared her personal journey, reflecting on how she went from being a student watching the final of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games to potentially competing in the same venue as an athlete. “To have a dream and see it become a possibility is incredibly special,” she said, adding that this home Games would be particularly significant given its potential impact on netball’s visibility and growth.

Netball Scotland’s Vision

Glasgow 2026 aims to showcase the best of women’s sports through the Commonwealth Games. Sarah McCulloch, Glasgow 2026 COO, expressed excitement about netball being one of the standout events at the Games, noting its action-packed and thrilling nature.

She stated, “Netball is always one of the standout events – action-packed and exciting – and we expect a party atmosphere at the Hydro. Whether fans are lifelong supporters or new to the game, they’ll see 12 of the world’s best teams battling it out across nine days of world-class action.” This event serves as both an opportunity for netball to shine on the global stage and a chance for women’s sports to gain wider recognition.

The launch of The Net Ball campaign marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of netball, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable and impactful participation in the 2026 Commonwealth Games. As the players prepare to take on this ‘Hollywood moment,’ they carry with them the hopes and dreams of countless fans eagerly watching from around the world.