Title-winning pair back for Lightning
LOUGHBOROUGH Lightning have received a boost ahead of the 2022 Vitality Netball Superleague season, with champions Hannah Williams and Suzie Liverseidge returning to the squad.
Loughborough University student Liverseidge will once again balance her studies in sports technology with her training programme as she continues to represent England on the international stage at U21 level.
Williams, who also features in England’s U21s side, will balance her training with study at Nottingham Trent University in 2022.
Liverseidge is looking ahead to the new challenge, saying: “I’m really excited to build off last season, both as a team and what I can contribute.
“It’s the perfect place for me to continue to learn from the coaches and players around me, and I love the environment here. The expectations are slightly higher this year but I’m looking forward to seeing what we can put out on court.”
Last season Williams quickly gained opportunities and, through her experience with the England age groups, was often called upon by head coach Sara Francis-Bayman.
“I hugely enjoyed my time last year,” she said. “I really love the environment at Loughborough, the squad and staff have been amazing. I really feel like I’ve grown and learnt so much in my short time here.
“I really want to continue with the standards and highs that we ended on last season, building on our connections as a team and creating new ones. And, of course, we want to be lifting the trophy again!”
Francis-Bayman has often been credited for her ability to rotate the bench during key moments, and with Williams’ and Liverseidge’s impact on court throughout the season they quickly became a key driver in Lightning’s 2021 success.
“Suzie had a breakout year last season, and I can’t wait to see how she builds on that this year,” said Francis-Bayman. “Hannah has shown that she belongs at Superleague level and I’m keen to see her push for more game time this year.
“They are both vital members of our squad and demonstrate how bright the future of this team is.”
Over half the squad has now been confirmed for Lightning’s 2022 title defence campaign.
They are: Ella Clark, Beth Cobden, Alice Harvey, Jess Haynes, Hannah Joseph, Suzie Liverseidge, Nat Panagarry and Hannah Williams.