Alicia Scholes, born May 8, 2001, is emerging as a pivotal figure in England’s netball scene. At just 24, she’s not only making her mark on the court but also helping redefine leadership, fitness, and aspiration in the game. The daughter of Manchester United legend Paul Scholes, Alicia Scholes has crafted her own impressive identity balancing elite performance for London Pulse and the Vitality Roses, while co-managing a high-end gym in Oldham.
Quick Bio Alicia Scholes
| Alicia Scholes | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Alicia Scholes |
| Date of Birth | May 8, 2001 |
| Age | 24 (as of 2025) |
| Height | 1.63 m |
| Playing Position | Centre / Wing Attack (C / WA) |
| Current Club | London Pulse |
| Super League Debut | March 2021 (Manchester Thunder) |
| National Team | Vitality Roses (England) |
| Instagram Handle | @alicia.scholesx |
| Education | Hulme Grammar School |
| First Club | Oldham Netball Club |
| Business Role | Co-owner, Scholes Gym, Oldham |
| Notable Achievement | 2025 Nations Cup Winner with England |
Early Years From Oldham to Elite Netball
Alicia Scholes began playing netball at the age of eight at Oldham Ball Hall. Her early talent shone through during her time at Hulme Grammar School and at Oldham Netball Club, quickly progressing to the premier ranks with YWCA Bury at 15.
She joined the Manchester Thunder pathway, making her Super League debut in March 2021 against Severn Stars. In 2022, she transferred to London Pulse, where she’s become the dynamic centre/wing attack players rely on.
Domestic Career Leadership, Energy & Impact
- Manchester Thunder (2020–2021)
Alicia Scholes early senior years at Thunder were marked by rapid development in a supportive environment learning from seasoned teammates and laying the groundwork for her future heroics.
- London Pulse (2022–Present)
Her move to Pulse has proven transformative for herself and the team. She:
- Grand Finalist in 2023, helping Pulse finish second in the Super League.
- Integral in securing third place in 2024.
- Celebrated a milestone 50th Super League appearance in June 2025 a testament to her consistency and leadership .
Alicia’s intensity was captured by Sky Sports, where she described London Pulse’s “brutal conversations” enabling a culture of high expectations and unyielding passion:
“It is so brutal but we all just take it from each other… we have such high expectations of each other, there is no room to be young or new”.
International Breakthrough Rising Through National Ranks
- England Age-Group Representation
Alicia’s rise began early: representing England at U17, U19, and U21 levels, including a 2019 U17 tour to Australia and the U21 Netball Europe Championship.
- Future Roses & Fast5 Debut
Her selection to the Future Roses programme in 2022 culminated in senior-level exposure at the Fast5 Netball World Series in New Zealand.
- Vitality Roses and Nations Cup Glory
Promoted to the Vitality Roses, Alicia made her senior debut in 2023’s Taini Jamison Trophy against New Zealand. She was also part of England’s historic triumph at the 2025 Netball Nations Cup in Nottingham and London England’s first-ever win in the event.
In May 2025, she earned a coveted spot in the 2025–26 Vitality Roses programme alongside Pulse teammates Halimat Adio and Olivia Tchine signaling her growing influence.
Off-Court Fitness, Family & Role Model
- Scholes Gym Fitness Meets Community
In April 2022, Alicia Scholes, her father Paul, and brother Arron, opened Scholes Gym a £500k investment in a 10,000‑sq‑ft facility in Oldham. As a co-manager, Alicia blends athletic insight with community engagement offering training services and camps that marry professional expertise and grassroots connection.
- Social Media Reach
With over 101K followers on Instagram under @alicia.scholesx, Alicia uses social platforms to inspire fans, promote healthy living, and engage supporters of netball.
Playing Style A “Pocket Rocket” With Big Impact
- Athletic Profile
Alicia stands at 1.63 m, yet her stature belies her influence. As a centre/wing attack, she blends quick footwork, court vision, and high-energy style earning the nickname “pocket rocket” from The Telegraph.
- Tactical Influence
Her ability to direct play is critical for both Pulse and Roses. She brings game intelligence, defensive support, and precision passing skills refined through rigorous training and high-stakes matches.
- Intangibles Culture & Leadership
Alicia’s leadership shines in her push for a competitive yet supportive team culture. Whether in Pulse’s dressing room or England’s training camps, she is known for encouraging honest feedback, demanding excellence, and reinforcing collective accountability .
Impact on English Netball’s Future
- Deepening Squad Quality
Emerging homegrown talents like Alicia help ensure England’s talent pipeline remains robust especially as experienced players retire or step aside .
- Innovating Culture of Excellence
Her “sink-or-swim” approach at Pulse reflects a shift toward cultivating elite-level psychological readiness challenging young players to mature rapidly.
- Inspiring Participation & Visibility
As a female athlete with national and Super League prominence, Alicia Scholes is inspiring grassroots involvement. Her profile encourages young girls especially in the North West to take up netball, while her gym underscores the value of athlete-led community investment.
Looking Ahead Glasgow & Beyond
- Commonwealth Games 2026 & World Cup 2027
With Alicia entering the full-time Vitality Roses programme ahead of Glasgow 2026 and Sydney 2027, she’s a key figure in England’s ambitions for gold on the international stage.
- Club Success in Pulse & Beyond
London Pulse, buoyed by young stars like Alicia Scholes looks poised to capture its first Super League title. Her leadership and consistency may be the catalyst that pushes them over the line.
- Personal Evolution
Off the court, Alicia will continue nurturing her entrepreneurial side balancing high performance with gym management, influence, and future pathways in coaching or sports leadership
Conclusion
Alicia Scholes is more than a rising athlete she’s a catalyst for change. Her rapid ascent from grassroots to global stage illustrates the efficacy of England’s pathways. Her dual roles in sport and community fitness underscore a holistic athlete who leads with action, not just words. Her commitment to excellence, punchy playing style, and cultural leadership have not only positioned her as a Rose to watch, but as a mentor and magnet for the next wave of talent. As England aims for major success in Glasgow (2026) and Sydney (2027), Alicia remains a central figure not just in match squads, but in shaping a modern, resilient and empowered future for netball in England.
