Panthers Unveil NXT Gen Squad
Birmingham Panthers are excited to announce their U23 NXT Gen squad and home fixtures for the upcoming 2025 season.
This new league, officially named the NXT Gen League, will provide a platform for the most promising young netball players to showcase their talent, helping them transition from the development stage to the professional level.
The competition, which begins in February 2025, is part of the Netball Super League’s (NSL) wider strategy to create a strong pipeline of elite players for the future.
The NXT Gen League was introduced to nurture the next generation of netball stars and bridge the gap between youth competitions and the senior NSL.
The league will feature nine teams and follow a home-and-away format. Teams will face each other twice across the season, offering young players ample opportunity to gain valuable match experience. Each squad can also include up to four players over the age of 23, providing mentorship and leadership to the younger athletes while maintaining a high standard of play. These experienced players are often returning from injury, pregnancy, or have previously been part of NSL teams, helping elevate the competition.
Birmingham Panthers U23 NXT Gen Squad:
The Birmingham Panthers’ squad for the NXT Gen League features a blend of talented U23 athletes and experienced overage players, creating a dynamic and competitive team:
Emma Barrie (GS)
Issy Eaton (GS/GA)
Sarie Watkins (GS/GA)
Clara Miles (GA/GS)
Chloe Essam (GA/WA)
Pippa Dixon (WA/GA)
Indya Masser (WA/C)
Effie Robinson (WA/C)
Niamh Kilgallen (C/WD)
Ellen Withington (C/WD)
Sophie Shipway (C/WD)
Makeda Thomas (WD/GD)
Millie Carter (GD/GK)
Holly Gaiger (GD/WD)
Dumebi Onichabor (GK/GD)
Eve Abbott (GK/GD)
Alyssa Rose (GK/GD)
Caitlin O’Sullivan (GK/GD).
The squad brings together a wealth of talent, with young players like Issy Eaton and Dumebi Onichabor expected to make a significant impact throughout the season.
Birmingham Panthers 2025 Home Fixtures:
Panthers’ fans can look forward to an exciting series of home fixtures during the 2025 season.
8 February – vs. Leeds Rhinos
1 March – vs. Manchester Thunder
13 April – vs. London Pulse
19 April – vs. Nottingham Forest
4 May – vs. Team Bath
9 May – vs. Cardiff Dragons
1 June – vs. London Mavericks
14 June – vs. Loughborough Lightning
The Panthers will kick off their season at home against Leeds Rhinos on 8 February 2025, and the season will culminate with a thrilling clash against Loughborough Lightning on 14 June. Full details of all venues will be announced in the coming weeks.
The NXT Gen League is a crucial step in developing future NSL stars, and the Birmingham Panthers are looking forward to watching their young talents thrive.
