England netball coach Jess Thirlby is stepping down. Photo / Getty Images
Jess Thirlby has stepped down as England netball head coach months before the Commonwealth Games, citing the need to process the death of her father.
Thirlby’s father died before the 2023 Netball World Cup but she still travelled to South Africa for the tournament. She led England to a silver medal before taking charge of the subsequent series in New Zealand a year later.
With just four months until the Commonwealth Games begin, the 46-year-old says she believes now is the right time to take a step back and support her family.
“No matter how much we love what we do, we are all still human,” Thirlby said in a statement. “This is not a decision I had ever thought I would have to make but I need to turn my attention onto supporting my incredible family.
“On reflection, I was mistaken to not prioritise and process the loss of my father at the time of his death, instead, and without regret, travelling with the team for the World Cup and the subsequent series in New Zealand. Everything I have done since has been to prioritise the England Roses and with this in mind, I feel that stepping down as head coach now is best for me and my family.”
Assistant coach Anna Stembridge will take over as head coach throughout the Commonwealth Games, which take place in Glasgow from July 25 to August 2.
Stembridge was previously head coach from 2011-15 and led the team to a historic first series win over Australia in 2013 and England’s first world-stage gold medal at the World Netball Series in 2011.
“Looking ahead to the Commonwealth Games, I am proud of the foundations we have built together,” Thirlby added. “The systems, structures and culture of excellence we have developed have created a strong and resilient team, capable of competing with the best on the international stage. The work put in by the players and staff has been exceptional, and I know the group will approach the Games with commitment and belief.
“I feel confident that the team is in a good place and well prepared for the next phase of their journey.”
England Netball chief executive Fran Connolly said: “I want to thank Jess for her time as Vitality Roses head coach and for the dedication and commitment she has shown to the programme and the wider game over the past six-and-a-half years.
“We are grateful for the leadership and professionalism Jess has shown throughout her time as head coach, and for the significant contribution she has made to the continued growth and development of the Roses programme. We wish Jess and her family the very best for the future.
“We now look ahead to building on these strong foundations as the Vitality Roses enter the next phase of their journey.”