Getting to know Beth Durant
Beth Durant has joined Elite Netball Academy as Operations Assistant and Performance Coach
Let’s get to know Beth:
With a playing career shaped by elite-level netball and international experience, Beth begins a new, exciting chapter with Elite. We caught up with her to find out more about her journey, her proudest moments and what she’s looking forward to the most.
How did you get into netball, and who inspired you growing up?
“My mum played netball and she took me along to a local club, Parkside, where I fell in love with the sport.”
For Beth, one player in particular stood out.
“I remember watching a game live and seeing Jade Clarke fly for an intercept and thinking she was amazing. To grow up and play alongside her was pretty cool! She was a fantastic leader who I looked up to throughout my career.”
From watching Jade as a young player to sharing the court with her at the highest level of the sport, it’s a great example of how the players we admire growing up can influence our own journeys.
What is your proudest netball achievement?
The 2018 Commonwealth Games remains one of the most memorable moments in English netball and for Beth it was always stand out. “Winning the Commonwealth Games in 2018. It was incredible to be part of such an iconic moment in England Netball’s history!”
What has netball taught you that you carry into everyday life?
“Netball has given me a lot of confidence in myself and my ability to deal with setbacks. I have learned that people want the best for you and to use your support network as much as you can.”
Why did you want to join Elite netball Academy?
“I have done some coaching in the past for Elite at Residential Camps and on one-day netball camps and always enjoyed the vibe and what they’re trying to achieve. Anna was my coach at Loughborough, so we had a strong relationship already. Her work ethic, drive and aspirations for Elite are something I wanted to be a part of.”
What excites you most about your new role at Elite?
“Learning new skills away from the court but still in the sport I love is exciting and understanding how the business runs.” I’m looking forward to getting to know the team and building relationships with coaches, parents and partners.”
What key strengths will you bring to elite netball?
“I have a hard work ethic and will give my all to the job. Being a professional athlete for the past ten years has taught me a lot about elite sporting environments, so can bring some of my learnings into this set up to help it to continue to grow.”
What advice would you give to a young player hoping to progress in netball?
“Feedback is there to help you improve, it is not an insult. Think about what you have been told and try to implement it. It goes a long way with the coaches!”
And finally… what is one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
“I love nature. I recently visited the Galapagos to see the sea lions, giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies!”
Welcome to Elite Netball Academy Beth!
About the author:
Beth Durant (née Cobden) won Commonwealth Gold with England in 2018 and achieved 51 caps for England. Throughout her career Beth won five Super League titles with two NSL teams: AO Thunder and Loughborough Lightning. She also had a spell in Australia with the Adelaide Thunderbirds.
- Getting to know Beth Durant
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