Tackling sport's 64% teen dropout: London Mavericks introduce inclusive netball kit

Harriet Millard

With 64% of girls dropping out of sport before the age of 16 (Women in Sport 2024), the question of how to keep teenage girls engaged remains one of the most pressing issues facing the sector.

Credit: London Mavericks

London Mavericks have responded by launching a new Choice Kit throughout their ecosystem, offering players a variety of options designed to improve comfort, confidence, and a sense of belonging. The move is grounded in research showing that 58% of girls want more PE uniform choices (Youth Sport Trust 2024) - a clear signal that kit can be a barrier to participation.

The Mavericks’ initiative adds real momentum to a conversation that has been growing within elite netball. In 2023, the Adelaide Thunderbirds trialled an inclusive uniform during the pre season Team Girls Cup, offering players alternatives to the dress, such as singlets, leggings or shorts. That early step helped show how uniform choices can affect comfort and participation, paving the way for wider adoption across the sport.

The London Mavericks' initiative applies kit choice at scale, from U15s through to the senior NSL team. Developed with Nike and KitQueen, their range includes leggings, skorts, shorts in multiple lengths, longer vests, and the familiar dress. The aim is not to replace tradition but to give athletes options that reflect different body types, comfort levels, and personal preferences.

The move sparked a thoughtful discussion on the Replayed Podcast, where the hosts praised the initiative and explored the implications of kit flexibility. They considered its practical benefits for players and also discussed how it might look visually within the league.

London Mavericks’ approach recognises that meaningful change often starts with practical steps. By removing one known barrier, they are contributing to a broader effort to keep more girls engaged in sport at every level.