Hartpury College has secured another national title after its netball team delivered an outstanding performance to win the AoC National Championships for a third consecutive year.
Competing against the best college teams from across the country, Hartpury showcased consistency, skill and determination throughout the tournament, culminating in a 22–19 victory over Exeter College in a closely contested final.
Hartpury set the tone early with a series of commanding performances in the pool stages:
- Wyke – 48-12
- Coleg y Cymoedd – 28-22
- Cardinal Newman – 31-22
- Long Road – 40-15
Carrying that momentum into the knockout rounds, the team secured a convincing 34-18 win over Hartlepool in the semi-final to book their place in the final.
The championship match proved to be a tighter affair, but Hartpury held their nerve to secure the title against Exeter College.
In addition to the team’s on-court success, captain Neve Marsden was given the honour of reading the oath at the opening ceremony on behalf of all competitors, recognition of her leadership and the team’s values.
The championship-winning squad included:
Neve Marsden
Ally Howitt
Grace Thomson
Lottie Lewis
Jess Taylor
Iris Hutchinson
Imogen Baxter
Ella Bloomfield-Bowmaker
Gabby Thomas
Amelie McCormack
Ada Horsman
Molly Robinson
Holly Duerden, Netball Academy Manager at Hartpury University and Hartpury College, said: “I’m incredibly proud of this group of players. To win the AoC National Championships again is a fantastic achievement and reflects the commitment, resilience and professionalism they’ve shown all season.
“They performed consistently across the tournament and showed real composure in a very competitive final. The way they support each other and represent Hartpury makes this success even more special.
“Neve leading the athlete oath at the opening ceremony was also a proud moment for the team and a testament to her leadership.”
This latest victory further strengthens Hartpury’s reputation as a leading provider of performance netball, with its academy programme continuing to develop talented student-athletes who excel both in sport and education. It’s been a successful few days, with college netballer Amber Kinghorn taking time away from the Netball Academy to help the West Midland women’s team win gold in the Endurance Run event, highlighting the diversity of Hartpury student-athletes.
