Wear It Pink is one of Breast Cancer Now’s biggest fundraising events, where individuals, schools, workplaces, and now our netball club, will wear pink and raise money for life-changing research and support.

With two of our members having been affected by Breast Cancer since we formed our club, this is an important cause we wanted to champion the following action amongst our membership:

• Raise awareness of the importance of Touch, Look, Check for early detection of breast cancer.

• Fundraise for Breast Cancer Now through 'Wear It Pink', their flagship campaign.

• Unite and empower our club community with pride, purpose, and positive action to champion conversations and signpost to tools through Breast Cancer Now and England Netball's NETBALLHer to promote Body Curiosity and understanding.

Inspirational Member Stories

Anne – Finding Strength on Court

Anne was diagnosed with breast cancer on 15th October 2012. Within weeks she faced surgery and six rounds of chemotherapy over 24 weeks.

As a teacher, she had to take time off work due to infection risks, but she stayed active with the Hawks Netball Club. Between chemo sessions, Anne played league matches, describing netball as her “lifeline” a source of diversion, normality, team spirit, and unwavering support.

Even when her hair fell out, she never felt embarrassed. Teammates, opposing players, and umpires treated her with warmth and normality, making her feel valued and strong.

Today, Anne wants to give back, urging everyone to Touch, Look, Check and get any concerns checked early. She believes in Breast Cancer Now’s goal that by 2050, everyone who develops breast cancer will live and live well.

“Seeing our club united in pink, supporting something bigger, makes me feel very proud. Cancer can affect anyone—awareness and early action save lives.”

Imo – The Power of Positivity and Community

On 4th October 2024, Imo was diagnosed with breast cancer. She chose to take a year away from playing netball to focus on her treatment and precious time with her family.

Yet, she remained an active part of the Hawks Netball Club, initiating Feel Good Friday walks, learning new skills like painting, and staying in close contact through regular messages with teammates. Whenever possible, she coached, planned sessions or communicated with parents, supported by fellow coaches, and toured as Team Manager alongside a clubmate returning from injury.

Imo also organised a coffee morning and sponsored 100 mile walk, with the club rallying behind her to raise vital funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and Breast Cancer Now.

Her resilience and commitment were recognised when she won the Cheshire Netball Chris Brien Inspiration Award in June 2025. Imo now uses her story to inspire others, championing regular self-checks (Breast Cancer Now), body curiosity through NETBALLHer, and the life-changing power of a caring community.

“When I think about seeing Hawks united in pink, I’m reminded that we’re more than a club, we’re a family who stands together, fights together, and lifts each other higher.”

A bit about Hawks NC

We were founded in 2009 by two adult social netball teams joining forces to become one new club, affiliated with England Netball. We’re based in Crewe, Cheshire with members from all over Cheshire, North Staffordshire, and Manchester and we play wherever and whenever we can.

We have grown to have 15 teams, comprised from 56 adult and 149 junior members (which continues to grow each week!), we also provide Netball Now sessions to encourage new and social players 16+.

Our growing club is professionally run by a 10-strong Management Group of volunteers; 8 of which are voted in by members at our AGM. Our club complies with England Netball guidelines, and as such includes a Safeguarding Lead and a Vice Chair responsible for Compliance.

#WeareHawks #WeloveNetball #Encourage #Empower #Inspire