Jess Thirlby

Jessica Thirlby is a former England netball international and the current head coach of the England national netball team. As a player, she was a member of the Team Bath squad that won the inaugural 2005–06 Netball Superleague title.

Between 1999 and 2006, Jess played for Team Bath, becoming one of their first full-time players. She participated in all five of Team Bath’s Super Cup campaigns from 2001 to 2005, contributing to their 2004 Super Cup victory.

Notably, she was part of the squad that clinched the inaugural 2005-06 Netball Superleague title. On the international stage, Jess represented England at every level from under-16 to senior, including competing in the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

She has been the Head Coach of the England national netball team since 2019. Under her leadership, the team achieved a historic milestone by reaching their first-ever Netball World Cup final in 2023, securing their first ever silver medal. Jess’s coaching philosophy emphasises teamwork, skill development and a strong work ethic.

Contact Great British Speakers today to book Head Coach for Team England netball Jess Thirlby for your next event.

Type Of Speaker

After Dinner Female Speakers Sport Women's Health

More About Jess Thirlby

Jess Thirlby is the daughter of Chris Garland, who was a former professional football player. She is married to Rob Thirlby, who is a former England rugby sevens international. Her husband also represented England at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

Between 1999 and 2006, Jess played for Team Bath. She was one of Team Bath’s first full-time players. Between 2001 and 2005, she played in all five Team Bath Super Cup campaigns, making 31 appearances. In 2004 she was a member of the Team Bath squad that won the Super Cup. She was also a member of the Team Bath squad that won the inaugural 2005–06 Netball Superleague title.

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Jess Thirlby | Honours

PLAYER

Team Bath
Netball Superleague: Winners: 2005–06:

Super Cup: Winners: 2004:

HEAD COACH

Team Bath

Netball Superleague: Winners: 2008–09, 2009–10, 2013

Jess Thirlby | Transition to Coaching

During the 2006–07 Netball Superleague season, Jess served as head coach of Celtic Dragons.

The following season, she served as an assistant coach to Jan Crabtree at Team Bath. Jess was then appointed Team Bath’s head coach for the 2008–09 Netball Superleague season. She subsequently guided Team Bath to further Netball Superleague titles in 2008–09, 2009–10 and 2013. Between 2015 and 2019, Thirlby served as Team Bath’s director of netball.

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Jess Thirlby | Speaker

Jess is a sought-after speaker, known for her insightful talks on leadership, team dynamics, and women’s health in sports. Her presentations often delve into:

– Transformational Leadership: Sharing strategies on building cohesive teams and fostering a culture of excellence.

– Resilience and Adaptability: Discussing the importance of mental fortitude in high-pressure environments.

– Women’s Health Advocacy: Highlighting the significance of initiatives like NETBALLHer and promoting open conversations about female health in sports.

Jess Thirlby | Recognitions & Awards

– University of Bath Hall of Fame for Sport: In 2024, Jess was inducted into the Hall of Fame, honoring her contributions as both a player and coach.

– UK Coaching Awards: Jess was a finalist in the High Performance Coach of the Year category in 2023, acknowledging her exceptional coaching achievements.

Why Book Jess Thirlby?

With a wealth of experience both on and off the court, Jess brings a unique perspective to discussions on leadership, performance, and the evolving landscape of women’s sports. Her engaging storytelling and practical insights make her an invaluable addition to conferences, workshops, and panel discussions.