The Birmingham Panthers have announced the appointment of former Jamaica netballer and Sunshine Girls coach Connie Francis as their new Director of Netball. This strategic addition brings Francis’s renowned expertise to the Panthers’ leadership, where she will work closely with Head Coach Jo Trip to drive the team’s competitive edge in the Netball Super League (NSL).

 Francis, an accomplished coach with a legacy of international success, has previously led Jamaica to impressive achievements, including a silver medal at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games and bronze medals at both the 2007 and 2023 Netball World Cups. Her career, marked by nearly two decades of contributions to netball as both an elite player and a seasoned coach, is built on a commitment to tactical innovation and excellence.

 Together, Francis and Trip aim to bolster the Panthers' on-court performance and team culture, emphasizing resilience, respect, and unity. This approach aligns seamlessly with the Panthers' mission to establish themselves as a powerful force within the NSL while representing the passion and diversity of Birmingham and the West Midlands.

 Beyond her role on the court, Francis will serve as a community ambassador, focusing on raising the profile of netball throughout the region. Her vision includes connecting with schools and underserved communities, a key element of the Panthers’ strategy to create pathways for young players to progress from grassroots development to elite competition. This outreach aims to cultivate future netball talent and inspire a new generation of fans.

 Commenting on her appointment, Francis shared, “I am thrilled to be here in England and to join the Birmingham Panthers franchise at such an exciting moment in the league’s development. I look forward to embracing the challenges of this role and to collaborating closely with the athletes, stakeholders, and everyone involved.”

 Head Coach Jo Trip also expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Connie’s experience at every level of the game and her dedication to athlete development will be invaluable. With Connie on board, we look forward to a season of growth, development, and success.”

 With Francis and Trip at the helm, the Birmingham Panthers are set to make a lasting impact both in the NSL and within the local community, embodying a vision of sporting excellence and engagement that promises to shape the future of netball in Birmingham.