Netball Players Association Announces Multi-Year adidas Netball Partnership with Specialist Sports to Champion Player Performance

The Netball Players Association (NPA), the independent voice of elite netball players in the UK, is proud to announce a new multi-year partnership with Specialist Sports Limited (SSL), the official UK distributor of adidas netball products. 

The partnership, running until October 2027, represents a shared commitment to supporting players both on and off the court, strengthening access to world-class performance products, professional development opportunities and meaningful engagement across the netball pathway. 

At the heart of the partnership is a focus on player performance, representation and progression, with adidas becoming the exclusive apparel and footwear partner of the NPA across the UK. The collaboration, beyond product support, is designed to deliver meaningful experiences and development opportunities for player representatives.

Genevieve Gordon-Thomson, Director of Commercial and Legal at the NPA, said: “This partnership reflects the continued professionalisation of women’s netball and the growing commercial interest in the sport. We are delighted to work with Specialist Sports and adidas to deliver tangible benefits for our members, alongside development and mentorship opportunities that support players throughout and beyond their playing careers.” 

As part of the agreement, SSL will also provide annual financial investment and product allocations to support NPA initiatives, representation and marketing activity, reinforcing the visibility of netball players and the work of the Association. 

Richard Mantell, CEO at Specialist Sports, added: “We are proud to partner with the NPA as we work together to support and elevate the game of netball across the UK. As adidas enters the world of netball, we are committed to supporting player development at every level and collaborating closely with NPA members to create high performance, netball specific performance products.”

The NPA will work closely with Specialist Sports and adidas to amplify the partnership across its platforms, delivering authentic, player-led storytelling, product education and engagement opportunities that benefit members and the wider netball community. 

This partnership marks an important step forward in delivering world-leading support for netball players, underpinned by shared values, innovation and a commitment to long-term impact. 

About the Netball Players Association:

The Netball Players Association is the independent voice of elite netball players in the UK. The NPA plays a unifying role in shaping a sustainable and successful future for the sport, delivering world-leading support through its four strategic pillars: Players’ Voice, Players’ Rights, Playing Environment and Organisational Sustainability. 

About Specialist Sports Limited:

Specialist Sports Limited is a leading performance sports distribution and brand marketing agency with over 30 years’ experience. The business provides end-to-end capabilities across brand marketing, product creation, sales strategy, distribution and logistics, supporting global sports brands across multiple markets. Specialist Sports Limited works closely with adidas across numeroussports performance categories and is responsible for adidas netball distribution and marketing across Europe.