Lightning secure three new players for Superleague
LOUGHBOROUGH Lightning Netball have further bolstered their squad for the 2018 Vitality Netball Superleague by securing the signing of three England U21 internationals.
After helping Lightning to a successful 2017 campaign Rebekah Airey has put pen to paper to extend her stay in the East Midlands, and will be joined by Brittany Coleman, who unfortunately had to sit out the 2017 season after injury in a preseason friendly.
Airey was a key part of the Lightning defence as they romped the regular season, topping the VNSL table. Since then she has captained the England U21 side to Netball Europe U21 Championship glory and played a key role in the Lightning’s Fast5 triumph.
On extending her stay in the East Midlands she said: “I’m so happy to be back for my fourth season at Lightning and I’m just really looking forward to cracking on with the team. Bring on the season now!”
For Coleman, it will be a case of making up for lost time after a nasty knee injury forced her out of action in 2017. Showing maturity beyond her years the 19-year-old worked tirelessly on her rehab, whilst also supporting her teammates from the bench all season.
On her progress and donning the purple dress again, Coleman said: “I’m gutted to have missed out last season due to injury, but I’ve put that behind me now, pushed on, and worked harder than ever to come back stronger.
“I’m so excited to see what we can do as a team this season and it’ll be great to get back on court with the girls.”
The new addition that Lightning fans will be eager to see take to the court is Anya Wood, who plays at goal defence or goalkeeper. Wood has been part of the England setup at U17, U19 and U21 level, playing her part in the Red Roses Netball Europe U21 success.
On joining Lightning Wood said: “I’m so excited to have been given this opportunity to play with such an amazing bunch of girls and can’t wait for the 2018 season to get started now. Bring it on!”
Of her latest signings new Head Coach Anna Carter said: “I’m delighted to have these girls in the squad this season; Bekah has been a part of Lightning for a while now and is keen to keep pushing herself for improvements. Britt is on her comeback from injury and determined to make her mark this year in the Superleague.
“As for Anya, I’m very excited to be working with her this season. She’s a talented young defender who I’m sure will grow in this Lighting environment.”
Lightning take to the court for the first time under the guidance of Carter on Saturday (December 9) when they host Team Northumbria in a preseason friendly.