Teen to stand tall for Mainland Tactix
Ashburton teenager Kate Lloyd has been called into the Mainland Tactix squad as a short-term injury replacement.
The 1.92m defender has been named to cover for injured captain Jess Moulds when the inaugural ANZ Premiership begins in Hamilton on Sunday.
Moulds, who was named to lead the side for the first time this year, continues her rehabilitation from a knee injury. She ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament last year while captaining New Zealand A in a practice match against England, forcing her to the sidelines for the start of the new six-team league.
Tactix coach Sue Hawkins said it was an exciting opportunity for Lloyd, 19, who was part of the squad which competed at the league’s pre-season tournament at Otaki.
‘‘Kate has been with the team as a training partner and we have seen growth over the last few months. I know Kate will continue to learn from the senior players as the season progresses.’’
The former Ashburton College student was part of the Mainland side which competed in the Beko Netball League last season. She has moved through the Mainland development programmes and is studying at Lincoln University. She was part of the Lincoln University premier club side last season.
The Tactix open their campaign against the Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic at Hamilton’s Claudelands Arena on Sunday as part of a blockbuster Super Sunday featuring all six teams.