BIRDIES NETBALL
ELEVATE YOUR GAME
about us
At Birdies Netball Club, we pride ourselves on being a friendly, inclusive, and competitive club that welcomes players of all abilities, aged 7 to 19. Whether you’re picking up a netball for the first time or striving to compete at regional levels, Birdies NC offers a supportive and inspiring environment where you can grow, thrive, and have fun.
Our goal is simple: to help young players develop skills, build confidence, and create lifelong friendships both on and off the court.
Guided by our team of experienced and passionate coaches, every member is encouraged to set personal goals, work hard and grow in a positive team culture.
What We Offer…
- Ages: 7–19 years
- All Skill Levels: Beginners to advanced players
- Pathways to Progress: Club, county, and regional competition opportunities
- Regular Matches: Participation in local leagues and tournaments
Join us at Birdies NC – where every player has the chance to learn, compete and shine.
The Committee
Tardieu
Hardy
Miller
Data Protection Lead
Evans
Bowen
Covid Officer
Brown
Website Admin
Benson
Recruitment
Bowles
Feander
Our Coaches
I’ve been playing netball for over 30 years, and my passion for the game has only grown stronger with time. From County to Regional level, I’ve had the privilege of playing across Shropshire, Gloucestershire, and Bedfordshire—experiences that have shaped not just my skills, but my love for the sport.
Recently, I achieved my Level 1 netball coaching qualification, and I couldn’t be more excited to give back. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to learn from some amazing coaches over the years, and now it’s my turn to pass that knowledge on. With the experience I’ve gained and the enthusiasm I bring, I’m looking forward to inspiring the next generation of players.
Coaching the Year 6s during the 2025/26 season is a challenge I’m truly excited about. I hope to help each player grow in confidence, skill, and love for the game—just as netball has done for me. Let’s make this season one to remember!
Cobb
I joined Birdies in 2016 as a player, and it’s been one of the most empowering experiences of my life. Netball has always been a passion of mine, and thanks to the incredible support and opportunities at Birdies, I’ve been able to play at both county and regional level—something I never imagined possible when I first started.
Over the past three years, I’ve grown not just as a player but also as a coach. Earning my Level 1 coaching award has allowed me to help others develop their skills, build confidence, and fall in love with the game just like I did. I’ve also achieved my Into Officiating and C Umpiring awards, which means I can now share my knowledge of the rules and help players sharpen their game sense.
Birdies has given me the platform to grow, lead, and inspire—and I’m proud to be part of a club that champions development, teamwork, and passion for netball.
Bowen
I’ve lived and breathed netball since junior school in South Wales, reaching Welsh trial standard in my teens. After having my daughter, I kept playing—because let’s be honest, “just for fun” still means fiercely competitive!
After moving to Bedfordshire in my late 20s, I stepped in to help at my daughter’s netball session and instantly caught the coaching bug. I gave up playing, completed my qualifications and threw myself into coaching at every level—from grassroots to County, Regional, and even junior Super League with Mavericks. It’s been a whirlwind of court time, team talks, and unforgettable moments.
But my heart is firmly rooted in grassroots netball, and specifically in Birdies NC. As Head Coach, I’m committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space where girls can grow their skills, build confidence, and form lifelong friendships.
Netball has given me so much, and I’m here to give it back—one session, one smile, one game at a time.
Yirrell
My netball coaching journey has just begun with Birdies, and I’m thrilled to be part of such a passionate and supportive club.
With 14 years as a qualified PE teacher, I’ve coached school teams to local league wins and county-level tournaments. As a player, I competed at county level from U13 to U18, earned a spot in my university’s first team as a fresher, and was proud to be voted club captain in my final year. We even reached the premier division, facing top teams like Bath and Loughborough.
I also played for Wyvern Grangers, a regional and national development club, where I had the incredible opportunity to train and play warm-up matches with Super League team Mavericks.
Netball has always been more than a sport to me—it’s about speed, strategy, and the amazing camaraderie on and off the court. Birdies offers a grassroots environment I wish I’d had growing up, and I’m excited to help build a positive, empowering space for our young players to thrive.
Benson
I fell in love with netball at school and 36 years later, I’m still on court! In my 20s, I reached regional level, but after having my children, netball took a brief pause—until I couldn’t stay away any longer. I joined local adult leagues in Milton Keynes and Hemel Hempstead, and I’m still playing today.
Three and a half years ago, my daughters joined Birdies, and I found myself back on the sidelines—supporting, cheering, and eventually stepping in to help. Last year, I officially joined the coaching team and haven’t looked back!
I’m currently completing my Level 1 coaching qualification and can’t wait to bring my experience, energy, and love for the game to the next generation of Birdies. Netball has always been my passion—and now, it’s my purpose.
Tardieu
I fell in love with netball at junior school and was lucky to attend a senior school where passionate PE teachers helped that love grow. Starting as a Goal Attack, I went on to represent my school, local club, and Bucks County. Later, I found my natural position at Centre—where energy, speed, and leadership came together.
After stepping back to have my daughter, I was thrilled when she discovered her own passion for netball. That brought me back to the game as a coach. I began as a team manager, completed my IO umpiring course, earned my Level 1 and, more recently, my Level 2 coaching qualification.
Always eager to learn, I joined fellow Birdies coaches at the Elite Training Academy—supporting players and gaining fresh coaching insights. My coaching philosophy is simple: “You get out what you put in. Work hard, give 100%, and enjoy the game.” I focus on developing individuals while instilling teamwork, confidence, and resilience.
Though coaching is my passion, I’ll admit—I’m getting itchy feet. If my body allows, you might just see me back on court!
Fun Fact: I once trekked and canoed through the Amazon rainforest to raise money for the National Deaf Children’s Society.
Our Teams
We’re proud to field a fantastic lineup of netball teams across all year groups. Each team is supported by dedicated coaches who help our players grow in skill, teamwork, and confidence on and off the court.
NIPPERS
YEAR 3 & 4
Our youngest netballers, full of energy and enthusiasm, learning the foundations of the game while having plenty of fun.
PINK & NAVY
Year 5 & 6
A hardworking squad building strong team spirit and game awareness as they step up their skills.
Purple
Year 7
A vibrant team developing their competitive edge while staying true to their love of the sport.
White & GREEN
Year 8
A determined group honing their techniques and teamwork under supportive guidance
Red & BLUE
Year 9
Two dynamic teams full of talent and drive, always ready to take on a challenge.
ORANGE & PINK
Year 10-11
Strong, spirited teams that play with resilience and passion, representing their year group with pride.
BLACK
year 12
Our most senior players, leading by example on the court and showcasing the best of our club’s values.
What We Offer Our Members
Competitive
Play
County Trials
& PDP Opportunities
Junior Umpiring &
Coaching Opportunities
WHAT OUR MEMBERS SAY
Club Shop
See the picture below for information about our kit shop. You can visit our AGame shop by clicking here.
Birdies Bowtique
See the picture below for information about our Birdies Bowtique shop. You can purchase your hair bow by clicking here.