Hawks surveyed their 50+ members and found that 70% of ladies were ready to return to safe, socially distanced training. Although virtual training online had been offered for a couple of months, players wanted to increase their motivation and participation with physical training in groups. In line with England Netball's guidance, small groups of 6 can train together outdoors to begin preparing players for a return to the netball game. Although actual games are not yet allowed, players can work with a Level 2 Coach to work on netball drills for movement, ball skills and agility/fitness.

In the first week, Hawks put on 5 'bubbles' across Leicestershire to provide sessions for over half of the club's players. All feedback has been hugely positive, with everyone enjoying being part of the team and the social interaction - as well as enjoying the feel of a netball again!

All bubbles are strictly governed, with players ensuring they are socially distanced at all times. Every attendee gets their own hand sanitizer and any shared equipment is thoroughly wiped down to ensure everyone's safety. Aware of the rules (all players can only attend if they are fit and well and must ensure their contact details are all correct and recorded in the event of track and trace being necessary) everyone was extremely content with being back to netball again.

Hawks will continue to offer these sessions weekly until our return to 'proper' club training, but for now it looks like 'bubbles' are the way to go!