Isle of Man Netball has announced the appointment of Paul Jones as its new performance director.

The former FC Isle of Man manager brings experience across professional and community sport, combining athlete development, coaching, physiotherapy, education and performance leadership.

His career has focused on helping people realise their potential through supportive environments that also provide challenge and opportunity.

As head of sports science and medicine at Norwich City Football Club’s Academy, Jones recruited and led staff across physiotherapy, sport science, strength and conditioning, nutrition, psychology and performance analysis, working closely with coaches to support players aged nine to 23.

Previously, as head academy physiotherapist at Rangers, his responsibilities included player care, injury prevention, staff development and safeguarding.

His wider experience includes lecturing in sport and coaching, advising on athlete development pathways and working with sports organisations across the UK and Europe to apply technology to performance and wellbeing.

He currently uses these experiences in his role as sport performance coordinator at Isle of Man Sport and also brings voluntary leadership experience in the key roles played in the creation of Sporting Club Isle of Man and FC Isle of Man, where he later served as team manager.

The appointment also has a personal connection: his mother, Pam Jones, helped establish netball in the island, contributing as a player, coach, umpire and committee member.

As performance director, he will work with players, coaches, officials, volunteers and performance service providers to strengthen opportunities across the performance pathway.

His focus will be on helping players and teams realise their potential and pursue international success while proudly representing the Isle of Man.

Speaking about his new role, Jones said: 'Netball has been part of my life since childhood through my mum’s involvement. I remember how welcome I felt at sessions and events with her, and that sense of community is a big part of why this role means so much to me.

'I’m looking forward to listening to the people involved and working together to build on their commitment.

'We want to give the people involved in netball performance initiatives the support, challenge and opportunities to see how far they can go, and help our teams achieve international success while keeping that sense of community and belonging at the heart of what we do.'

Chris Watterson, chair of Isle of Man Netball, added: 'We are delighted to welcome Paul to the board of Isle of Man Netball as performance director.

'Attracting someone of his calibre, with his breadth of sporting experience, performance expertise and strategic insight, is a significant coup for the organisation.

'This is an exciting chapter for Isle of Man Netball. By bringing together the right people and expertise, we are building a strong foundation for the future of our domestic leagues and international ambitions.

'Paul’s appointment further strengthens our commitment to developing talent, inspiring participation and delivering a clear performance pathway that enables our players and coaches to reach their full potential, while creating a legacy that our island community can be proud of.'