Jess Thirlby: Coaching, Courage and Creating Change

The Game Changers

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13d ago 55:19

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"I hate mediocrity. As soon as it feels like we’re sitting in the status quo, I feel like I’m failing."

In this brilliant episode of The Game Changers, Sue Anstiss is joined by Jess Thirlby, Head Coach of the Vitality Roses and one of the most respected leaders in world netball.

From growing up in a deeply sporting family in the South West to representing England at the Commonwealth Games and ultimately leading the national side, Jess shares an extraordinary journey through sport.

Jess’s warmth and candour are apparent as she reflects on:

Finding her love for netball in a primary school playground
Playing alongside legends during the pioneering years at Team Bath
Making history as England’s first full-time netballer and how it reshaped her view of the sport
Stepping into the Roses Head Coach role after their historic 2018 Commonwealth Gold — and the pressure and privilege of leading a team with the nation’s hopes on their shoulders
Her bold, collaborative coaching style and relentless pursuit of excellence
Her ambition to lead the team to World Cup Gold in 2027
Balancing high-performance leadership with family life and the realities of motherhood in elite sport

Jess speaks powerfully about the evolution of netball, her hopes for Super League 2.0, and why the sport must remain unapologetically female-first while building a more inclusive and sustainable future.

A compelling conversation that highlights what it takes to lead with integrity in the spotlight, inspire the next generation and stay grounded — even when chasing that elusive World Cup Gold.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.
Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media
A Fearless Women production

Chapters

1. Introduction to Jess Thirlby (00:00:00)

2. Sporting Beginnings and Family Influence (00:01:50)

3. Pioneering Full-time Netball at Team Bath (00:05:18)

4. Commonwealth Games and International Career (00:09:01)

5. Transition from Player to Coach (00:12:50)

6. England Head Coach After Historic Gold (00:18:38)

7. Coaching Style and Leadership (00:31:47)

8. Netball Super League 2.0 Development (00:34:48)

9. Men's Netball and Gender Inclusion (00:44:55)

10. Balancing Coaching with Family Life (00:47:10)

11. Future Ambitions and Next World Cup (00:53:20)

228 episodes

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