THE Vitality Netball Superleague (VNSL) has had a longer break than most heading into 2021, with last year’s COVID-19 interruptions culminating in a cancelled season after just three and a half rounds of action. But a start date for the season was finally announced during the week, with Round 1 set to begin on Friday, February 12, and matches running through to late June, with finals to play on Saturday June 26 and 27.
Heading into its third VNSL season, London Pulse is gearing up for another improved year after showcasing plenty of development in its short 2020 stint, with London Pulse CEO and head coach Sam Bird confirming her team’s readiness for the return of domestic netball.
“Before the premature end to the 2020 season, this squad was able to show the exciting and dynamic style of netball that we can produce,” Bird said in a statement.
“Whilst the off-season has been long, we have used our time together as a squad to build on that determination and develop as a team. We may still be a young team in this league but have no doubt about it – we believe we can be contenders.”
The fixture could still be subject to change given how quickly COVID-19 restrictions can turn, and will be played behind closed doors across two centralised venues with the first nine rounds taking place at Studio 001, Wakefield, before the competition heads to London to Copper Box Arena for the remainder of the season.
A breakthrough broadcast deal with Sky Sports UK will help provide opportunities for netball fans to support their clubs, with all matches streamed or broadcast live across the station’s various channels, including its YouTube channel.
“While we are disappointed to not have our fans courtside this season, we are delighted that we will be bringing netball back to our iconic home, the CopperBox Arena, and that our fans will have access to all matches via Sky Sports, and of course our social media channels,” Bird said.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank every one of our supporters, members, contributors and partners for the part they have played in helping us return to court ready to represent London and show the netball world exactly what we are made of.”
“The entire London Pulse squad is so excited to get back onto court and into league action on the 13th.”
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