Bloxham and Newton win coach and all star gongs at NSL Awards



Rhodri Evans

Reinga Bloxham, head coach of the LexisNexis Risk Solutions Dragons, has been named Netball Super League (NSL) coach of the year for the 2026 season.

The award rewards a standout campaign for Reinga and the Dragons, who finished fifth, their highest league position in over a decade.

Bloxham is not the only Dragon celebrating, as defender Jacqui Newton was named in the All-Star 7, the line-up that recognises the standout player in each of the seven on-court positions across the NSL season, as voted by the league’s clubs.

The Dragons’ fifth-place finish was their highest league position and points tally since 2014, narrowly missing out on a Grand Final play-off place.

Alongside her role with the Dragons, Bloxham will also serve as Team Manager and Specialist Coach for the Welsh Feathers at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

“I was very surprised and truly grateful,” Bloxham said.

“It wasn’t something I expected but it is nice to get that recognition for all the hard work that goes on while no one is watching.

“I have to acknowledge the great support team I have around me that have enabled me to lead this team and coach the way I’ve wanted to.
I’m proud of all that we have achieved as a team and a club this season and looking forward to continuing that growth in our performance culture.”

“Being named in the All-Star 7 is an honour and something I feel super privileged to accept,” Newton added.

“I would like to thank my team mates and my circle of support who help make this possible.”


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