Performance
The purpose of the player pathway is to support the development of athletes. The player development journey is an evolutionary process, individual specific and shaped by experiences.
Meet the PDP Team
We are pleased to introduce....
Player Development Performance Lead - Debbie Hopkinson
Debbie deals with all of the administration that goes with the successful running of a programme – she is the first point of call for all questions relating to the programme and can be contacted by email – performance@derbyshirenetball.co.uk
“I am very much looking forward to the season ahead, meeting our new athletes and building on the hard work that our returning athletes put in last year – after a very successful 2023/2024 season we have to work hard to capitalise on that success – but I have no doubt that the selected athletes will rise to the challenge.”
PDP Lead Coach - Amy Griffiths
As a Player Development Programme (PDP), we are committed to continually developing our coaches to ensure we provide a consistently high-quality experience for our athletes. To strengthen this commitment, we have invested additional time and resources this year through the appointment of Amy Griffiths as Lead Coach.
As Lead Coach for the Derbyshire Netball PDP for the 2025–2026 season, Amy leads on coach recruitment and onboarding, oversees coach management and development, and supports the design, implementation, and review of the Derbyshire PDP Annual Plan. Amy has created and manages a dedicated coaching resource hub to enhance coach education, sourced meaningful and competitive match play opportunities, and provides both operational and strategic support to the PDP Lead.
Throughout the season, Amy has worked collaboratively with PDP coaches to shape and refine the programme, ensuring it delivers a high-quality, relevant, and supportive development experience for coaches — ultimately strengthening the environment we create for our athletes.
Our Coaches 25/26 season
Under 13s Coaches
Ruth Sampson - Head Coach
Ruth currently is Head Coach for the Under 13 squad, she also coaches for Loughborough Lightning U14 and U16 Development Hubs. Ruth is also a player and umpire and Mum to two netballers. Ruth has also had experience coaching the England netball Youth Camps
“I am looking forward to my 11th year with Derbyshire PDP and working to develop our new athletes to Derbyshire U13s. For the previous 2 years, our Derbyshire A team have not lost a regional match, so hoping to continue our winning streak with lots of hard work and determination.”
Lora Turner - Assistant Coach
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Under 15s Coaches
Kelly Hopkinson - Head Coach
Kelly is a Level 2 coach and a teacher of PE. Kelly also coaches for Nottingham Forest Netball at U17 and U19 level.
“I am so excited to embark on my 6th year with Derbyshire PDP. I really do believe in my community and I aim to develop each athlete on an individual basis, both on and off the court. Last year we were regional champions, so we have big shoes to fill. However, this year, trials were the most competitive yet and I believe that we have selected an unbeatable squad. Let’s go DerbADOS”
Madi Baxter - Assistant Coach
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