The Hampton Panthers, a remarkable local netball team, have shared more than just victories on the court – they’ve shared over a decade of friendship, growth, and unity. This team of 17-year-olds has played together since childhood, forming an extraordinary bond that extends far beyond the sport itself.

At the heart of their journey were two dedicated coaches, Kerry Starr and her sister-in-law, Emma Starr. Their daughters, Fearne and Ava, are both valued and long-standing team members, growing up side by side with their teammates from the inception of Hampton Panthers. Emma, their beloved mum, aunty and coach, sadly passed away last year (November 2024) after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Her loss deeply affected the team, but her spirit continues to inspire every game they play.

Following Emma’s illness, Kerry stepped away from coaching the team directly, and the team welcomed Catherine Hardiman as their new coach. Catherine – whose sister Charlotte is also part of the team – has brought fresh energy and heartfelt continuity, introducing a new kit that features a star and an orchid in Emma’s memory, symbolising her guidance and favourite flower.

The Panthers’ strength lies not only in their talent but in their resilience. Through heartbreak and transition, they’ve remained a tight-knit group – supporting each other, honouring Emma’s legacy, and embracing the power of team sport to heal and uplift.

The new kit was made possible with support from Funnel Boost, the family business of team member Ellie Karagholi. “Ellie has grown up with these girls. The team has been a constant source of confidence, fun, and friendship. We are incredibly grateful for the years of dedication from the coaches and support staff at Hampton Netball club, without whom, clubs like this would not be available. They really are a life line for young adults!” said Kate Karagholi, Head of Operations at Funnel Boost. “Emma was a dear friend as well as a fantastic coach and mentor to the Panthers team. Supporting the team in this small way felt like the most fitting tribute to her – something lasting, beautiful, and connected to the girls whom she loved so much.”

Kerry Starr, who was pivotal in setting up the team and coaching the girls alongside Emma Starr said “It’s so unusual that these girls have been a solid team for so many years, myself and Emma coaching them from primary school age. They are an amazing bunch of girls and it’s been lovely seeing them grow into the fantastic human beings they are now! Emma loved coaching the girls, always with plenty of banter. She was so proud of them and loved them dearly, as I do. I love that Funnel Boost are sponsoring their new dresses that the girls themselves designed. It’s emotional but fitting that they are designed with a nod to Emma, that she would Love. I know the girls will continue to make Emma and all of us proud.”

As the Panthers step onto the court this season, they carry not just skill and determination — but a legacy of love, friendship, and the memory of a coach who helped shape who they are today.

Selection of Images

  • Hampton Panthers Netball Team Sporting Their New Dresses with coach Catherine Hardiman – April 2025 Age 17

From left to right:
Catherine Hardiman (Coach)
Polly Anderson
Ellie Karagholi
Fearne Starr
Charlotte Hardiman
Amy Walthew
Ava Whitehorn
Simbi Gomba
Sophie Dixon
Nicole Dyirakumunda
Alexandra Lunan

  • Coach Emma Starr with the Hampton Panthers Netball Team – 2024 Age 16.

From left to right:
Ava Whitehorn (Emma’s Daughter)
Simbi Gomba
Fearne Starr (Kerry’s Daughter)
Ellie Karagholi
Emma Starr (Coach)
Charlotte Hardiman
Amy Walthew
Nicole Dyirakumunda
Sophie Dixon
Alexandra Lunan

  • Hampton Panthers Netball Team – 2019 Age 11

From left to right:
Amy Walthew
Polly Anderson
Sophie Dixon
Charlotte Hardiman
Ellie Karagholi
Ava Whitehorn (Emma’s Daughter)
Alexandra Lunan
Fearne Starr (Kerry’s Daughter)

  • Coach Kerry Starr with the Hampton Panthers Netball Team – 2024 Age 16

From left to right:
Nicole Dyirakumunda
Sophie Dixon
Fearne Starr
Polly Anderson
Kerry Starr (Coach)
Charlotte Hardiman
Ellie Karagholi
Ava Whitehorn
Simbi Gomba
Alexandra Lunan

About Funnel Boost

Funnel Boost is an AI digital marketing agency passionate about empowering business growth through technology and AI workflow innovation. As part of the local community, the company is proud to support causes close to the hearts of their team and families.

Contact/Press Enquiries:
Kate Karagholi
Head of Marketing
01733 612712
kate@funnelboost.co.uk

Please visit www.funnelboost.co.uk for further information.

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