University signs partnership deal with Netball Super League team

The University of Wolverhampton has signed a three-year partnership deal with the Birmingham Panthers to become the official training base for the Netball Super League team.  

The University will also become a supporting partner of the team with the first home game set to take place on 21 March against Manchester Thunder.  

As part of the agreement, the Birmingham Panthers will have access to High-Performance Suites, court space and a range of performance services throughout the season(s) at the University’s Walsall Campus.  

The Panthers will also supply University placements every academic year in areas such as Strength and Conditioning, Sport Therapy and Performance Analysis as well as expanding across the university academic portfolio. 

Reflecting on the partnership, James Dale, Head of the School of Sport at the University, said: “I am really pleased that we can announce this partnership that provide industry placements and opportunities for our current and future students at the University.  

“This partnership has been in the making since January 2024 and has finally come to fruition with students already undertaking internships across the School of Sport portfolio.  

“It is really pleasing to see students gaining experience, knowledge and an understanding of working in a performance environment while utilising it to complement their academic studies. 

“I would like to personally thank Jo Trip (Birmingham Panthers Head Coach) and the wider sport team for all their efforts in making this partnership a reality. I have no doubt that it will go from strength to strength and bring far reaching benefits to the University of Wolverhampton.”  

Jo Trip, Head Coach of Birmingham Panthers, said: “This partnership is about much more than just facilities; it’s about creating a world-class performance environment while empowering the next generation of talent. By combining the Panthers’ vision with the University’s academic excellence, we’re building a foundation for the future of netball and the ongoing empowerment of women and girls in sport.” 

One student who will be on placement at the Panthers is Ben Andrews, currently studying Sports Science and in his second year.  

Looking ahead to his placement, Ben said: “The University of Wolverhampton's renowned excellence in sport science teaching, competitive sports programmes, and strong staff-student relationships drew me to study here, where the University's industry connections led to my internship with Birmingham Panthers netball. 

“This invaluable opportunity will allow me to apply theoretical knowledge in an elite sporting environment, providing hands-on experience that enhances my professional development and creates a strong foundation for future career growth.”  

Anyone interested in studying for courses at the School of Sport at the University of Wolverhampton should register for one of our forthcoming Open Days.         

Image caption:

(left to right): Sharon Arkell, Dean of the Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing at the University, Jo Trip, Head Coach of Birmingham Panthers, Alison Kay, Co-Founder, CEO and Chair of the Board at Birmingham Panthers, Simon Tranter, Director of Regeneration and Economy at Walsall Council and Professor Gill Knight, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic Leadership and Student Experience).