Playing Netball for France: Interview with Year 10 Erin
By Priya B, Year 10 Journalist Lead
In October, Erin L in Year 10 joined the junior French national U17 netball squad to represent France in international competitions, including a European Netball U19 Event in Edinburgh in December. I interviewed her on her experiences as an international netball player.
How does French netball training differ from English netball training?
French netball really focuses on team building. Training camps take place for 2 days monthly which include hotel stays and sharing rooms with teammates, which helps create trust, strong relationships and better teamwork on court.
What advice would you give to others at the school about netball?
Go for every opportunity and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Hard work, commitment and believing in yourself really do pay off.
What has been the highlight of your time on the French team?
Representing France at international level and being part of such a close, supportive team has been an amazing experience and something I’m very proud of.
What motivates you?
My love for netball and the desire to keep improving motivates me. My teammates and coaches also push me to be my best.
What has been the hardest match you’ve had to play in your time on the French team?
The hardest match was at the U19 Netball Europe event in Edinburgh in December 2025 against Wales because of how physical they were. I was chosen for the game because the coaches believed I could make a difference, and I worked hard to prove them right. Although we were a much younger team, we put up a great fight and gave them a real challenge, which made the experience incredibly rewarding.
What sacrifices have you made to make it to where you are now?
I’ve sacrificed free time, weekends, and social activities to train, travel, and balance netball with schoolwork.
What is your biggest netball goal right now?
My biggest goal is to keep developing as a player and compete consistently at a higher level while continuing my education. One day I’d love to play netball at the Olympics if it becomes an Olympic sport!
