Manchester Thunder’s netball stars are hoping a surge in excitement levels among fans will help break a record for the UK’s highest-attended domestic match.
On Thursday, players took to the city’s streets to hold a children’s coaching session in celebration of their highly-anticipated clash against Yorkshire Jets.
Denton and Oldham netball clubs were treated to the session just days before Thunder engage in their season-ending battle of the roses clash at Manchester Arena.
“It’s great to see so many kids down here, having fun and getting excited about Netball Manchester Live,” said Australian-born Thunder coach Dan Ryan.
“They’ve got one of the biggest netball matches of the season happening right here at Manchester Arena, in the heart of the city.”
Monday’s game is aiming to break the record for the highest attended domestic netball match ever held in the UK – a record of 6,033, currently held by Netball London Live.
Thunder have enjoyed an outstanding season so far and currently sit second in the table, level on points with leaders Hertfordshire Mavericks on 30.
A win on Monday will see them reach the play-offs and take one step nearer to becoming 2016 Vitality Netball Superleague Champions – a remarkable feat for coach Ryan who has only held the post since last year.
Arch rivals Yorkshire Jets will be looking to upset the apple cart though in what has been a tough season for them.
The Jets are bottom of the league and have failed to win a game, or even achieve a point all season.
“This is really about getting the message out to the people of Manchester to get out and support Netball Manchester Live,” said England international and Thunder captain Sara Bayman.
“Everyone knows we are a city of sport and Netball Manchester Live is a real celebration of that.
“We also want to encourage more women and girls to get involved with netball, whether it’s watching or playing.”
Tickets are selling fast for Netball Manchester Live but some are still available via: https://www.ticketline.co.uk/order/tickets/13312994/manchester-thunder-vs-yorkshire-jets-manchester-arena-2016-04-18-19-45-00-1
Image courtesy of Surrey Storm Netball, via YouTube, with thanks.
