THE 2024 Netball Super League (NSL) season may not have finished yet, but one of its newest sides is already looking ahead to 2025 with the appointment of their inaugural coach.

The Birmingham Panthers have announced former Silver Fern and Severn Stars head coach Jo Trip as their maiden mentor heading into the next NSL campaign.

Trip’s career has been long and illustrious, starting in New Zealand and culminating in taking the Severn Stars to the finals for the first time in 2024.

There is no word yet on whether it’s a playing-coaching role or a straight head coaching role for Trip at the Panthers, but she is sure to create plenty more history either way.

Now that the Stars have finished up as a franchise, Trip can now turn her attention to forming the playing list for the new franchise.

The Panthers are one of two new teams entering the Netball Super League competition in 2025, as the competition moves into a new, more professionalised era.

Speaking on the announcement, Director of Netball at the Birmingham Panthers Alison Akinrinlola said the club is “thrilled” to welcome Trip.

“Jo’s track record speaks for itself, and we believe her vision and leadership will be instrumental in ensuring we are ready to compete at the top of the Netball Super League in 2025,” Akinrinlola said. “Her experience and passion for the game make her the perfect fit for our organisation.”

The incumbent coach also chimed in on her appointment.

“I am hugely excited by the vision the Birmingham Panthers have for netball across the West Midlands, both on the court and in the community,” Trip said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to help build the team from the ground up and I am looking forward to bringing my experience to the Panthers and helping the team achieve their goals.”