THE founder of St Helens Bees Netball Club has won National Pioneer of the Year Award at the England Netball One Awards 2024.

Leanne Hobin, the founder of St Helens Bees Netball Club, has been awarded the prestigious title of ‘Pioneer of the Year’ at the England Netball ‘One Awards’ 2024.

The accolade, presented at a glittering ceremony in Birmingham, recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to growing and developing the sport of netball in their communities.

Leanne, whose passion for netball began at an early age, established St Helens Bees Netball Club in 2021, with the goal of providing opportunities for players from age three upwards to engage in the sport.

Since its founding, the club has grown into one of the region’s most inclusive and community-focused netball clubs, empowering women and girls to participate, develop skills, and foster a love for the game.

This ‘Pioneer of the Year’ award acknowledges Leanne’s dedication to inclusivity, her innovative approach to club development, and her tireless efforts to ensure netball is accessible to all.

Under her leadership, St Helens Bees have launched netball programmes for girls from age three to 10yrs, coaching mentorship for adults, volunteer programmes for teenagers and encouraged those adults who previously played the sport to reignite their love for netball and return to the netball court.

Commenting on her win, Leanne said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. Netball has always been my passion, and seeing how St Helens Bees has grown in just 3 years is incredibly rewarding.

"This recognition from England Netball is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved in the club—our little Bees, our coaches, volunteers and supporters. Together, we’re building something special that has a lasting impact on our community.”

Louise Moss, Merseyside Netball Development Officer, praised Leanne’s leadership, stating: “Leanne exemplifies everything that the ‘Pioneer of the Year’ award stands for.

"Her innovative vision and dedication to creating a positive environment for players at all levels is inspiring. Through her work with St Helens Bees, Leanne is helping to grow the sport and make it more inclusive for all.”

St Helens Bees Netball Club has become a beacon for grassroots sports development, inspiring a new generation of netball players across Merseyside and beyond.

Leanne’s award is a proud moment for the local community, highlighting the vital role of sport in fostering social connections, physical health, and empowerment.

For more information on St Helens Bees Netball Club or to get involved, visit sthelensbees.co.uk or follow @sthelensbeesnetball on Facebook and Instagram.