In a story of remarkable sporting ascent, a Loughborough teacher has been chosen to wear the England shirt in international competition. Tom Halfhide, a PE teacher at Loughborough Schools Foundation, has earned selection for the England men's netball squad ahead of the 2025 Men's Netball Nations Series in Singapore.
From Novice to National Player in Two Years
What makes Halfhide's achievement extraordinary is his rapid journey in the sport. He first picked up a netball just over two years ago, entering a mixed charity tournament with his fiancée. His selection is built on a foundation of natural athleticism honed through a diverse sporting background, including representing the Army in basketball, rugby, and other sports.
This multi-sport experience fuelled a meteoric rise. Alongside his fiancée, he founded Stunts netball, a Loughborough-based mixed performance club that made history in 2024 by becoming the first non-London team to win the Mixed National Championships. His development was further supported by training with top-tier clubs Loughborough Lightning and Nottingham Forest Netball in the Netball Super League.
Inspiring the Next Generation in Schools
At Loughborough Schools Foundation, Mr Halfhide teaches PE across the foundation schools, coaches rugby at Loughborough Grammar School, and leads girls' netball coaching at Fairfield Prep School and Loughborough High School. His recent journey from beginner to elite athlete provides a unique and relatable perspective for his pupils.
"Many of our girls have played netball since they were very young. I have recent experience of learning the basics," Halfhide said. "Two years ago, I didn't know the rules. That helps me support pupils who are trying the sport for the first time, just as much as those aiming for elite level."
His influence is set to grow further, as from next year his Stunts netball club will train on the foundation's own courts, giving pupils direct access to observe and learn from adult performance players.
Preparation and Pride Ahead of Singapore 2025
Halfhide's England preparations have already begun in earnest, including a full-day training camp at Loughborough University. This involved a performance match against the world-class Vitality Roses, the England women's national team currently ranked third in the world.
"It's an amazing honour - a once-in-a-lifetime experience," Halfhide stated. "I've competed internationally before with Army basketball, but representing my country in netball is completely different. I can't wait for Singapore and the opportunity to play against some of the world's best."
Jo Hackett, director of sport for Loughborough Schools Foundation, expressed immense community pride. "Tom's passion, humility and meteoric progression are a powerful example to pupils of what can be achieved through dedication and courage. Our young players see in Tom not only an outstanding coach, but an inspirational role model."
Tom Halfhide will travel to Singapore in 2025 to compete for England, marking an incredible chapter for the teacher, coach, and now international athlete from Loughborough.
