In preparing for the next phase of growth, Netball France as an ambitious organisation has set an audacious goal – France at a Netball World Cup within the next two international cycles. The rationale for this stretching goal is simple. Netball France is seeking to build today the best possible Performance structure for future success.
In early 2024, Netball France appointed Geva Mentor as our first ever Performance Director. In her first few months, Geva has spent time understanding Netball France and the French Way of Play, while spending time with Les Bleus to understand how best to grow the squad forward. At the end of Season 23/24, as per Netball France procedure all positions within the Open National Squad Coaching and Management Team opened to applications. After running selections over the summer, while considering how to best create a suitable Performance structure to capitalize on all available resources, the Performance Director in conjunction with the Netball France Board is proud to announce the expanded Coaching and Management Team for Les Bleus’ season 2024/2025.
Asha brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this program, with a strong background in coaching and playing at various levels from club to country. Asha has demonstrated her leadership and strategic planning skills throughout her career with her most recent position as Head Coach and Netball Director of the former NSL Team Bath.
Francesca has transitioned from Head Coach to Assistant Coach of Les Bleus, which reflects her commitment to the sport and her desire to continue contributing to the team’s success. Her rich background in both coaching and playing equips her with a unique perspective, making her a vital part of the coaching staff, in addition to the knowledge she brings from her previous experience in the program. Fran’s dedication to Les Bleus makes her an invaluable asset to this team and Netball France.
Jayne is the secretary for Netball France, and has held the Open National Squad Team Manager role for the last two years. She will continue in this role with the support and opportunity to share the workload alongside newcomer Gaby, whose experience as a Committee Member of her local club Netball Paris and working with the Australian Olympic and Paralympic Delegations will set her up well to step smoothly into the role. Both Team Managers will compliment each other well to deliver a well-coordinated program.
Netball France would also like to take a moment to thank Jodi Thomas, Les Bleus Assistant Coach 2022-2024, for her passion, energy, and expertise applied so beautifully in helping to plan, execute, and evolve the Les Bleus squad in the first two seasons. We understand fully the need to put down the suitcase and be present at home, and we sincerely hope that this pause in extensive travel brings Jodi much deserved rewards.
This new Coaching and Management team represents an expansion and a continuance, both important in the development of this squad. Netball France are building more than a squad for a season – we are building a legacy that will last generations. The achievement of our audacious goal can only be made possible by leveraging the knowledge, passion and expertise of the specialists who broke the ground in the inaugural years of Les Bleus, while attracting external talent to extend and elevate the scope of the team for the years to come. We wish the new team every success in their roles and continued success for the season ahead.