Panthers Reveal Stunning New Dress Designed by Local Fashion Talent

Birmingham Panthers are gearing up for their debut Netball Super League season in style, unveiling a bold and innovative new dress that combines cutting-edge design with practical performance. Designed by talented Birmingham City University (BCU) Fashion Design students Zoe Bennett and Rohan Scott, the dress captures the spirit of the Panthers—a perfect blend of creativity, strength, and ambition.

A Collaboration of Creativity

The design project for the new on-court dress was overseen by brand consultant Blair Hesson and was the result of months of collaboration between the designers, the Panthers players, and their coaches. Under the expert guidance of BCU Fashion Lecturers Sian Riley and Lucinda Holbrooke-Hase, Zoe and Rohan worked tirelessly to ensure the kit reflects the Panthers’ fierce identity while meeting the rigorous demands of elite netball. From initial sketches to the final product, the design process offered the students invaluable real-world experience in creating professional sportswear.

The dress features a striking fusion of styles: Zoe Bennett’s inspiration from the hidden rosette patterns of panthers is paired with Rohan Scott’s futuristic, neon-contoured design. The result is a standout look that celebrates the team’s identity while breaking new ground in sports fashion.

Debut Home Match at the BP Pulse LIVE Arena

Fans won’t have to wait long to see the new dress in action. The Panthers’ first home page will be against Manchester Thunder on 21 March at the BP Pulse LIVE Arena. Tickets for this historic match are available here.

Excitement from the Team and Designers

Panthers head coach Jo Trip praised the collaboration, stating, “This initiative shows how powerful our young people’s ideas can be. Looking great on court is a massive part of being successful and feeling confident. If you feel good, you play well, and if you play well, you inspire those around you. This is a fantastic example of how sport and style can combine to create something really special.”

Designer Zoe Bennett shared her excitement: “My design was all about being more than what meets the eye! I was inspired by the hidden rosette prints that panthers have. Combining this pattern with Rohan’s electric shapes and colours created a stand-out design that we’re both so proud of. Seeing it on the court will be the real test for us. GO PANTHERS!”

Rohan Scott added, “By far, this project is one of the biggest achievements of my career and education. When I see the kit in action, it’ll be so surreal, but all our hard work will be on the court.”

About the Designers

Zoe Bennett and Rohan Scott are both second-year Fashion Design students at BCU’s School of Fashion & Textiles. This collaboration marks their first foray into professional sportswear design, and they have risen to the challenge with creativity and skill, setting the standard for what’s possible when sport and fashion unite.

Be Part of the Panthers’ Journey

The Birmingham Panthers are ready to make their mark in the Netball Super League, and their new kit symbolises their drive to excel both on and off the court. Don’t miss your chance to witness history in the making.

Let’s go, Panthers!