Manchester Thunder target home Grand Final glory at Co-op Live
Karen Greig says “it’s written in the stars” ahead of Netball Super League showpiece
AO Manchester Thunder are aiming to turn home advantage into Grand Final glory as Manchester's Co Op Live prepares to host a sporting event for the first time.
It's also the first time the Netball Super League’s Soft & Gentle Grand Final has taken place in Manchester.
The biggest netball event of the year so far will take place on Saturday 20th June 2026, with the UK’s top two teams battling it out to be crowned champions in front of a packed arena crowd.
Four-time NSL champions AO Manchester Thunder have already secured their place in the Soft & Gentle Play-Offs and are now pushing for a coveted spot in the final on home soil.
Head Coach Karen Greig said: “Hopefully it’s written in the stars. To have a final in Manchester, for us it would just be unbelievable if we’re able to get there.
“The girls were really buzzing when they found out that it was going to be at Co-op Live, it was just a real lift around the group.
“We’ve got some work to do the next few rounds and obviously in the semi-finals but hopefully it’s written in the stars, we’re going to do all that we can to be there and hopefully we’ll be able to pack out the arena.”
Vitality Rose and AO Manchester Thunder star Eleanor Cardwell said playing in Manchester would provide extra motivation for the team.
She added: “Being in the top four is incredible. AO Manchester Thunder is such a strong team and the fact that we can get into that top four each and every year is incredible.
“The fact that the Grand Final is in Manchester gives us that extra bit of motivation to get to that final, having that home crowd would be unbelievable!”
Rivals battle for Grand Final spot
AO Manchester Thunder will face fierce competition from rivals Loughborough Lightning and reigning champions London Pulse, who have also secured Play-Off spots.
Teams are not only competing for the Netball Super League title, but players are also hoping to impress selectors ahead of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games later this summer.
The Grand Final follows a record-breaking NSL season that has seen growing live attendances and broadcast audiences.
Fan zones and live entertainment planned
Organisers say the event will combine elite sport with music, fashion and entertainment to create a full-day experience for fans.
Two family fan zones will open on the Etihad Campus from midday, featuring live DJs, entertainment stages, opportunities to meet players from all eight NSL teams, games, activations, food and drink stalls and netball activities.
Inside Co-op Live, fans can also expect an extended half-time show inspired by Manchester’s musical heritage.
The Netball Super League relaunched in 2025 as part of a 10-year plan to professionalise the sport and grow the league’s audience across the UK.