Netball Players Association Appoints Three New Non-Executive Directors to Support Growth in the Professional Era

The Netball Players Association (NPA) is pleased to announce the appointment of three new Non-

Executive Directors - Paul Shields, Helen Garrett and Karen Atkinson MBE- strengthening the

organisation’s leadership as the elite game of netball continues to evolve in the professional era.

The appointments reflect the NPA’s commitment to strong governance, strategic growth and enhanced

expertise in elite performance and athlete welfare, benefitting members on and off the court. The directors

brings a wealth of experience across performance, leadership, finance, commercial strategy, governance

and sport, providing valuable insight as the Association continues to advocate for and represent

professional and semi-professional netballers.

Paul Shields brings extensive experience in senior executive leadership and commercial strategy, with a strong track record of guiding organisations through periods of growth and transformation. His knowledge and experience from professional rugby will support the NPA as it navigates the expanding professional

landscape of the sport.

Helen Garrett adds depth of knowledge in governance, stakeholder engagement and organisational development. Her experience will further strengthen the NPA’s focus on best-practice governance and sustainable growth.

Karen Atkinson, a highly respected former elite netballer and leader within the sport, brings unique insight into the athlete experience and high-performance environments. Her understanding of the game and its professional demands will be invaluable in ensuring players’ voices remain central to the Association’s

work.

Chair of the Netball Players Association, Mazena Bogdanowicz, said the appointments mark an important

step forward for the Association;

“As netball continues to grow professionally, it’s vital that the NPA evolves alongside it. Paul, Helen and

Karen bring complementary skills and perspectives that will help guide the Association through its next

phase, while ensuring players remain at the heart of every decision.”

The Netball Players Association looks forward to working with its expanded Board as it continues to

support, protect and progress the interests of netball players in an increasingly professional environment.

Our thanks go to Cat Watson, who has stepped down as a director having made a significant contribution to

the NPA over the last four years.

Liz Bloor, CEO of the NPA said;

“We are very grateful to Cat for being so generous with her time for the

NPA and sharing her expertise in the field of women’s sports rights and commercial partnerships, which

has played a key role in supporting our activity in this area.”