Gilbert Netball has been at the centre of elite netball for more than two decades, evolving from a strategic brand extension into one of the most recognised names in global netball performance equipment.
From early international tournaments to World Cup stages and Commonwealth Games appearances, Gilbert has played a defining role in shaping the modern game.
Founder and CEO of Gray’s International, Richard Gray, reflects on the journey in his own words:
“Gilbert made its first foray into the world of netball in the 1990s when we were actively looking for new and logical opportunities to extend the Gilbert brand.”
The Origins of Gilbert Netball
Gilbert’s entry into netball began in the 1990s, when the brand explored opportunities to expand its sporting footprint through existing channels and manufacturing partners.
A key breakthrough came with the development of a new Gilbert netball, built using proven technology from the Barbarian rugby ball.
“The new Gilbert ball, utilising successful technology from the Barbarian rugby ball, was chosen as the official netball of the 1995 World Championships in Birmingham.”
This marked a major turning point for the brand, establishing Gilbert on the international stage almost immediately.
England, Canada, and Wales were among the first nations to adopt Gilbert balls and apparel, followed by Northern Ireland and Scotland.
“By this time, England, Canada and Wales had also chosen Gilbert balls and clothing, and later Northern Ireland and Scotland followed.”
Momentum continued to build as Gilbert expanded into netball footwear, launching its first shoe range shortly after its early tournament success.
Further recognition followed with selection for the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur, and the 1999 Netball World Cup in Christchurch, New Zealand.
A New Era Under Gray’s Ownership
In 2002, Gilbert was acquired by Gray’s of Cambridge, marking a new strategic phase for the business and a stronger focus on netball as a growth sport.
“Grays immediately saw the potential that netball offered.”
One of the earliest activations under new ownership came at the 2003 Netball World Cup in Auckland, where Gilbert hosted its first venue store, bringing the brand directly into the heart of elite competition.
By 2005, netball had been formally identified as a strategic growth opportunity.
“We identified netball as a strategic growth opportunity for the business.”
This led to the development of the Xact 7 grip pattern, designed to improve handling, grip, and shooting accuracy, adapted from rugby sevens technology.
The innovation was quickly adopted by leading netball nations including Australia, New Zealand, and Jamaica.
To support the sport more effectively, Gilbert also introduced its first dedicated Netball Brand Manager and launched its first netball-specific brochure.
“We wanted to ensure that netball received the focus it deserved.”
Building a Global Netball Presence
Gilbert’s growth has been closely tied to its presence at the sport’s biggest international moments.
From World Cups to Commonwealth Games tournaments, the brand has become a consistent presence at elite level netball, helping to shape the sport’s professional era.
These partnerships and appearances established Gilbert as a trusted name in elite netball equipment, used at the highest level of competition worldwide.
The Defining Moment: 2011 Netball World Cup
A major turning point came during the 2011 Netball World Cup in Singapore, which marked a new era of global visibility for Gilbert.
“Probably the 2011 World Cup in Singapore was a defining moment for Gilbert Netball.”
For the first time, Gilbert introduced a full clothing range on the international stage alongside its official match ball, as well as a new footwear collection.
Teams including Jamaica, Wales, Botswana, Malawi, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and Singapore all competed in Gilbert kit.
“The event saw Jamaica, Wales, Botswana, Malawi, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Singapore teams all using Gilbert kit.”
At the same time, Gilbert’s presence in domestic elite netball had expanded significantly, sponsoring seven of nine Netball Superleague teams, increasing visibility through televised matches.
“This gave the brand unrivalled exposure.”
The next phase of growth saw Gilbert collaborate with elite players to co-create signature products, strengthening its connection with athletes and the performance game.
In 2015, England Netball joined the Gilbert family, cementing the brand’s position at the top level of the sport.
Legacy and the Future of Gilbert Netball
Looking back, Richard Gray reflects on Gilbert’s long-standing role in the development of the sport.
“We are so proud of the progress that netball as a sport has made over the last 24 years that we have been involved, and the part we have played in its development at every level of the game, wherever it is played around the world.”
Today, Gilbert continues to focus on growth, performance innovation, and global participation across all levels of netball.
“We see a bright future for netball and Gilbert as the one-stop shop for the netball family.”
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