Global Dominance, Local Heritage: JESS Dubai and Dubai College Lead Gulf Charge at the World Schools Netball Cup in Loughborough
The world’s most prestigious showcase of youth netball has once again delivered a masterclass in high-stakes competition. The sixth edition of the World Schools Netball Cup, proudly backed by headline sponsor Twedex, took over the world-renowned sports facilities at Loughborough University last month.
With Unite Teamwear serving as the official merchandise provider, the event took on a truly global flavor. Over 350 elite players representing 26 schools from seven countries and four continents converged on the UK. Under the bright lights of the Sir David Wallace and Netball Centres—home to Netball Super League heavyweights Loughborough Lightning—the weekend was defined by high-intensity tactical battles and a massive step forward for Middle Eastern netball programs.
Middle East Powerhouses Trade Blows with the Best
While the tournament welcomed powerhouse newcomers from as far as Australia and Namibia, it was the UAE contingent that repeatedly forced their way into the elite global spotlight.
The U13 Division was a spectacular showcase of Gulf excellence. JESS Dubai put on a masterclass of clinical passing and defensive coordination throughout the tournament, storming all the way to the Grand Cup Final. In a classic, nail-biting encounter against England’s Hulme Grammar School, JESS jumped to a commanding early lead before ultimately taking home a heroic global Silver Medal.
Right behind the elite tier contenders, Dubai College showcased their exceptional squad depth and resilience to triumphantly lift the U13 Plate Championship trophy.
In the U15 Division, JESS Dubai proved their consistency on the international stage once more. Displaying outstanding transition play and clinical shooting under immense defensive pressure, the Dubai-based school fought off top international academy fields to capture a thoroughly deserved global Bronze Medal.
The Global All-Star Spectacle
Before the main tournament brackets commenced, the tournament celebrated its massive international footprint with the fan-favorite WSG Netball All-Star Matches.
In front of packed bleachers, players from across the continents united to represent Team Rest of the World against Team UK across the U13, U15, and Senior brackets. The exhibition served as a fantastic reminder of the tournament’s core ethos: bringing the youth sporting community together at a world-class level.
The WSG Netball 2026 Roll of Honour
U13 Category
- 🥇 Gold (Cup Champions): Hulme Grammar School (England)
- 🥈 Silver (Cup Runners-Up): JESS Dubai (UAE) 🇦🇪
- 🥉 Bronze (Cup Third Place): Guildford High School (England)
- 🍽️ Plate Champions: Dubai College (UAE) 🇦🇪
U15 Category
- 🥇 Gold (Cup Champions): Scarisbrick Hall School (England)
- 🥈 Silver (Cup Runners-Up): Felsted School (England)
- 🥉 Bronze (Cup Third Place): JESS Dubai (UAE) 🇦🇪
U17 Category
- 🥇 Gold (Cup Champions): All Saints Anglican School (Australia)
- 🥈 Silver (Cup Runners-Up): Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School (England)
- 🥉 Bronze (Cup Third Place): Solihull School (England)
U19 / Senior Categories
- 🥇 Gold (Cup Champions): Gordon’s School (England)
- 🥈 Silver (Cup Runners-Up): Windhoek Gymnasium (Namibia)
- 🥉 Bronze (Cup Third Place): Our Lady of Fatima DCS (South Africa)
Loughborough 2027: Lock in the Dates!
The memories of a sensational 2026 campaign are locked in, but the planning for next year’s global showcase is already underway.
We are absolutely delighted to confirm that The World Schools Netball Cup will return to Loughborough University between 22-25th June 2027. With the bar raised higher than ever, the race to see who will represent the Middle East on the world stage has officially begun.