England Korfball are today delighted to confirm the appointment of Mike Hopkinson as the Performance Programme Lead following an open recruitment process.

Mike brings a wealth of coaching and pedagogical experience to this role, with a PhD in Sport Performance Analysis, MSc in Sport & Exercise Science and being a lead lecturer in Sport Performance at Leeds Beckett University. He is the founder and head coach of Leeds Hurricanes Korfball Club and the founder of the Northern Development Hub. As such he brings a fresh set of eyes, specific skills and experience to the role. Mike has also previously worked within the programme last season as a coach.

On the appointment Sam Wells, EK Interim Chair says “We are delighted with the appointment of Mike following the recent recruitment process. He impressed at interview with his collaborative approach, and we are excited with the ideas that he has for the short, medium and long term to take the programme to the next level.”

Mike said upon accepting the appointment “I’m excited to take on the role of England Korfball Performance Lead. I’m deeply motivated to elevate our international standing by investing in quality, consistency, and values-driven development across all pathway groups. That journey starts with collaboration — and I’m looking forward to engaging with players, coaches, and stakeholders to shape a pathway we can all be proud of.”

We hope that everyone from with the community will join us in welcoming Mike to the role.