When Nat Metcalf fell pregnant, her sporting goal was to make it to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Now the wing attack is ready to live out that dream with her daughter Miller watching on.

Metcalf gave birth in May 2025 and just over a year later was included in Anna Stembridge’s squad of 12, confirming her inclusion at a third successive Commonwealth Games.

It is the culmination of the most challenging year of her career, but one that will be made worth it by being able to take to court in Glasgow.

“There were definitely times when I wondered whether I'd get back out on court and be doing what I love again,” she said. “I questioned whether my body could do it and whether my mind was ready.

“I'm really fortunate and grateful that all of that hard work has paid off and that I'm here getting ready to go again.

“My husband reminds me all the time to look at what I've done and how far I've come. I have to remember where I was a year ago compared to now.

“The support I've had from the Roses to get back out there and do what I love has been amazing. It's been a whirlwind, but a really rewarding one.

“Now the next goal is standing on that podium with the girls, winning that gold medal and making the country proud.”


Metcalf heads to Glasgow 2026 off the back of a title-winning season with AO Manchester Thunder.

While the season ended on a high, the wing attack admitted it took some time for her to find form as she made her return to court, but is now raring to go for her country.

She added: “I was desperate to get back out there and play netball, but after having time away from the game at this level, it takes time to find your form again and work your way through the gears.

“At times I battled with that and found it difficult, but at the same time I was learning how to manage being a new mum. That was all completely new to me.

“It was challenging at times, but it's been incredible to ride that wave and learn so much about myself along the way.

“As I got into the second half of the season, I started feeling much more like myself again.”

Metcalf is the only member of the current squad who was part of the side that won gold in 2018, with her role transformed from one of the least to the most experienced member of the group.

It is a mantle she is embracing, as she seeks to relive those experiences at Glasgow 2026.

“One thing I've learned as I've got further into my career is that I love getting around the younger players,” she said.

“When I think back to 2018 and the experienced players who got around me, I remember how much that helped me as a debutant.

“There's such a freedom in being a debutant at a Commonwealth Games because you've never experienced it before, and everything feels exciting.

“If I can help the girls prepare them for what's coming and share some of that experience, then that's something I really enjoy doing.

“A lot of these girls watched that [2018] team on television, and now they're part of the same environment. I think that's incredible.

“I also love hearing their stories. When they talk about watching 2018 and being inspired by that team, and now finding themselves inside this team, it genuinely gives me goosebumps.

“I absolutely see it as part of my role to pass on knowledge to the next generation.”

Sportsbeat 2026