LexisNexis Risk Solutions Dragons today announced the appointment of Nia Jones as Head Coach of its NXT Gen programme, marking an exciting new chapter for the Performance System that develops the next generation of elite netball talent.
A familiar face within the Dragons family, Nia returns to the team following a distinguished playing career which included representing both the Dragons and the national team, the Welsh Feathers. A former Dragons captain, Nia represented Wales at three Commonwealth Games and captained her country at the 2023 Netball World Cup in Cape Town. Nia was also recently inducted into the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame, recognising her contribution to Welsh sport through netball and football and her achievements throughout her playing career.
Her appointment reflects the programme’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent under the guidance of coaches who understand the standards, values and ambitions of performance netball in Wales.
Originally from the small village of Llanfynydd in North East Wales, Nia first discovered netball through school and local club opportunities, before progressing through the Wales Netball pathway and joining what was then known as the Junior Dragons Programme while studying at Cardiff Metropolitan University. Alongside her playing career, she has built extensive coaching experience across schools, universities and community netball, including leadership roles with Cardiff University, The Cathedral School, Llandaff, and Howell’s School.
In her new role, Nia will lead the LexisNexis Dragons NXT Gen squad, working closely with athletes to support their development on and off the court and helping prepare them for future opportunities within the Performance System.
Nia said: “I’m incredibly proud to be returning to the LexisNexis Risk Solutions Dragons in this new role. The club has played a significant part in my own netball journey, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to support the next generation of players as they develop their skills, confidence and ambition.
“The NXT Gen programme is a fantastic platform for young athletes and I’m looking forward to helping create an environment where players can thrive, challenge themselves and reach their potential.”
LexisNexis Risk Solutions Dragons, Wales’ only Netball Super League team, is managed by Wales Netball and plays a vital role in the nation’s elite sporting landscape. The LexisNexis Dragons NXT Gen programme supports talented athletes’ development, helping bridge the gap between age-group competition and the senior performance environment.
Linzi Plant, Franchise Director for LexisNexis Risk Solutions Dragons, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Nia into this important leadership role within the Dragons environment. Having played at the highest level as both a Super League player and an international captain, she brings valuable insight, credibility, and a genuine passion for player development.
“Alongside programmes such as our Dragons Hubs, NXT Gen helps create a connected development environment that supports player progression at every stage and contributes to the long-term strength of the franchise.”
The Dragons are also pleased to confirm that Ridge Crest Cleaning, the official sponsor of the club’s Netball Super League Head Coach, will extend its support to the NXT Gen programme as the official NXT Gen Head Coach sponsor.
Their continued partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting coaching and player development across the Dragons pathway.
This week, LexisNexis Risk Solutions Dragons also confirmed the players selected for the 2026/27 NXT Gen squad, a group of talented young athletes identified as part of the Performance System designed to support the next generation of netball talent.
The 2026/27 NXT Gen squad comprises:
Ebony Ham
Sarie Watkins
Katherine Mansfield
Caitlin Blanks
Mia Hall
Maddi Lovett
Nansi Kuti
Liv Selby
Zoe Matthewman
Caris Morgan
Lowri Broughton
Efa Mair Thomas
Thea Rhodes
Georgia Hellerman
Fearne Maine
The LexisNexis Risk Solutions Dragons are continuing preparations for the 2027 Netball Super League season. Fixtures have been announced, and season tickets are already on sale. Individual matchday ticket information and further squad announcements will follow in the coming weeks.
Fans can follow the Dragons’ journey and learn more through the club’s official digital channels.
Follow and support the Dragons on socials @lexisnexis_dragons
Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/lexisnexis-dragons-tickets/artist/5497624
