Trinidadian netball star Samantha Wallace-Joseph will take her talents to England, having signed with the Loughborough Lightning for the 2025 Netball Super League (NSL) season. The move comes after Wallace-Joseph’s departure from the New South Wales Swifts in Australia’s Suncorp Super Netball League earlier this summer, following a mutual agreement to part ways.

The reigning back-to-back NSL champions, Loughborough Lightning, have expressed excitement over the addition of Wallace-Joseph to their roster, recognizing her as a key signing. Wallace-Joseph, who spent seven successful seasons with the NSW Swifts, will now lead the Lightning's shooting circle following the departure of Mary Cholhok to the Queensland Firebirds.

Her signing is seen as a major coup for Loughborough, with Wallace-Joseph bringing a wealth of international experience and talent. She was a standout for the Swifts and a crucial part of their successes, making her one of the most prominent figures in netball.

Joining Wallace-Joseph in Loughborough’s 2025 campaign are other high-profile recruits, including South African defender Shadine Van Der Merwe, former Manchester Thunder shooter Berri Neil, and Jodie Gibson, a 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medallist making her return to the club. These additions complement an already formidable roster that includes returning players like captain Nat Panagarry, Beth Cobden, and Ella Clark.

Loughborough Lightning Head Coach Vic Burgess expressed pride in the squad assembled for the upcoming season, noting the ambition to defend their titles. "As back-to-back defending champions, we’re aware that there will be a target on our back. With this in mind, we’ve recruited exciting players across the court to ensure that we’re in a position to battle for silverware once again," Burgess said.

Wallace-Joseph’s move to Loughborough comes after a challenging period with the Swifts, where she had recently returned from a two-year hiatus due to knee surgery. Despite her stellar track record, the Swifts and Wallace-Joseph decided to part ways following internal issues, marking the end of her time in the Australian league.

Her fresh start in England offers Wallace-Joseph an opportunity to reestablish herself as one of the premier shooters in netball. With Loughborough’s strong squad and the upcoming 2025 season set to begin in March, Wallace-Joseph will look to bring her trademark skill and leadership to the Lightning’s quest for a third consecutive NSL title.

Despite being swept 0-3 by Northern Ireland Warriors in a three-match Paradise Cup series, Barbados Gems head coach Denise Alleyne took heart from her team’s performances, as she believes the experience will serve them well going forward.

For Alleyne, the fact that young players from the 15th-ranked Gems were exposed to rubbing shoulders with more seasoned players was an even bigger highlight of their campaign against 11th ranked Northern Ireland, which ended at the Sir Garfield Sobers Gymnasium on Tuesday.

Northern Ireland won 53-43, 66-39, and 55-45.

“The biggest takeaway from the Northern Ireland Test series for me was the introduction of the new young players, especially ones that came forward from the Under-21, and just having a glimpse of what the future of netball could be,” Alleyne said.

“I was so very proud of their performance, even the ones who only played for a quarter. They went on and gave 100 per cent. So it gave me some hope, because, as you know, the team does have a mix of older and younger players, and then there are some in between who would have been Under-21 nationals just a couple of years ago, so it is a good mix,” she added. 

Alleyne explained that tournaments like these are important to the Barbados’ netball development and that of younger players, in particular, as they displayed grit and commitment throughout, even as the odds were stacked against them in more ways than one.

“I did see a lot of individual improvement, in terms of player development both on and off the court. The girls played with a lot of heart. I knew that it would have been a challenge – I did believe that we could have won at least one of the games, because I don’t think Northern Ireland is 20 or 30 goals better than we are,” Alleyne told Barbados Today.

“But you know, we had circumstances with injuries and stuff, and we also had situations where people had to go to work and then hustle to get there for the game in the evening time. So that too would have played a part in how rested and prepared people were for the game on the night. But it is a circumstance beyond our control,” she noted, adding that she anticipates significant growth over time.

 Jamaican netball star Shanice Beckford has re-signed with West Coast Fever for the 2025 season of the Suncorp Super Netball League, following a standout debut season with the club. Beckford's re-signing solidifies her place in the Fever's roster, where she has quickly become a vital asset, particularly with her strong connection to fellow Jamaican and star shooter Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard.

During the 2024 season, Beckford played in every game, showcasing her skills on the international stage and seamlessly transferring her chemistry with Fowler-Nembhard onto the SSN court. She finished the season with 94 goals, including 26 Super Shots, highlighting her impact as a dynamic and reliable Goal Attack.

 Fever General Manager Sue Gaudion expressed her excitement about Beckford's return, emphasizing the significant role she plays within the team. “We are really excited to have Shanice Beckford back in Green for 2025 and we cannot wait to see her take her game to the next level as she becomes more familiar with the Fever environment and system," Gaudion said. "Shanice has shown she has what it takes to compete, and her blistering start to her SSN career in 2024 is a prime example of what she can deliver."

 Gaudion also highlighted Beckford's transition into a full-time, professional environment for the first time in her career, noting the positive impact it has had on her development. "This year saw Shanice step into a full-time, professional environment for the first time in her career, and we know she will continue to thrive as she benefits from the experiences she has at West Coast Fever. Her team-first attitude, drive to improve, and her strong connection with Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard make her a vital component of our contracted 10 for 2025.”

 Beckford, equally thrilled to be returning to the Fever, reflected on her incredible debut experience and her eagerness for the upcoming season. “I had the most incredible debut experience in the Suncorp Super Netball League with West Coast Fever," Beckford said. "Being part of the West Coast Fever environment was truly amazing. I had a fantastic time building long-lasting relationships with my teammates and the coaching staff, while simultaneously learning and growing in my netball skills."

 She added, "The whole experience of being in Western Australia has been absolutely extraordinary. I am eagerly anticipating the upcoming 2025 season and can't wait to see what it has in store, especially playing alongside my teammates in front of the passionate and supportive Green Army. I am genuinely thrilled to be back and looking forward to the exciting journey ahead.”

 Beckford's re-signing completes West Coast Fever’s contracted 10 for the 2025 season, which includes key players such as Jess Anstiss (Captain), Ruth Aryang, Sunday Aryang, Jordan Cransberg, Kadie-Ann Dehaney, Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard, Alice Teague-Neeld, Olivia Wilkinson, and Fran Williams.

As Beckford prepares to take her game to new heights in 2025, fans of West Coast Fever and the Green Army can look forward to another thrilling season with their star Goal Attack leading the charge.

The Adelaide Thunderbirds have secured a powerhouse for their 2025 campaign, re-signing four-time national premiership winner Romelda Aiken-George for a second season in pink. The Jamaican superstar, renowned for her towering presence under the post, will return to the Suncorp Super Netball League as one of the most formidable goal shooters in the game.

Aiken-George, entering her 16th season in the national league, delivered an extraordinary performance in 2024. She racked up a staggering 736 Nissan Net Points, netted 517 goals, and pulled down 69 rebounds. Her impact was undeniable, culminating in a Player of the Match performance during the Grand Final, where she amassed 57.5 NNP, 42 goals, and 10 rebounds to lead the Thunderbirds to victory.

Her debut in Round 1 against the Queensland Firebirds was nothing short of spectacular, scoring 48 goals and officially becoming Thunderbird #108. With 230 games to her name, Aiken-George's experience and skill set make her an irreplaceable asset for the Thunderbirds' attack end.

Thunderbirds General Manager of High Performance, Jace Bode, expressed his excitement about Aiken-George's return. "Romelda was a dominant target for us under the post in 2024 and once again showed why she is one of the best shooters the sport has ever seen," Bode remarked. "Her competitiveness on court and ability to take ball in the air and convert to goal was second to none. She added invaluable experience to our attack line and built strong connections with the players around her. We look forward to welcoming her back in 2025."

Aiken-George's re-signing is more than just a continuation of her journey; it's a statement of intent from the Thunderbirds. With her at the helm of their attack, the team is poised to defend their title and continue their reign as the league's top team.

Fans can expect nothing less than brilliance from Aiken-George as she dons the pink once more, ready to lead the Thunderbirds to further glory in 2025.

In a thrilling and fiercely competitive 2024 Suncorp Super Netball League season, Jamaican players stood out as dominant forces, leading their teams to the top of the league standings and excelling in numerous individual statistical categories. As the season concluded, two teams featuring prominent Jamaican talent were locked in a tie for points, a testament to the significant impact of these athletes on the league.

The West Coast Fever, led by the indomitable Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard, had a stellar season, thanks in large part to Fowler-Nembhard's all-around brilliance. Over 16 games, she amassed an astonishing 1,782.5 Nissan Net Points, making her the top player of the tournament. Fowler-Nembhard's capability was instrumental in the Fever's success, earning her recognition as one of the league's most valuable players.

On the defensive end, Shamera Sterling-Humphrey of the Adelaide Thunderbirds showcased her prowess, finishing third in Nissan Net Points with 1,481.5 points. Her ability to anchor the Thunderbirds' defense was pivotal to their impressive season, where her consistent performances proved critical in securing key victories and back-to-back titles.

Romelda Aiken-George, also representing the Adelaide Thunderbirds, dominated the league in offensive rebounds, securing 69 crucial second-chance opportunities. Her tenacity on the boards was a significant factor in the Thunderbirds' relentless offensive pressure, making her a cornerstone of their strategy.

Fowler-Nembhard also made her presence felt in the offensive rebounding category, finishing fifth with 42 offensive rebounds, further emphasizing her well-rounded contributions to the Fever’s campaign. Sterling-Humphrey continued her defensive dominance by leading the league with 36 defensive rebounds. Her ability to disrupt opponents' offenses and control the boards was unmatched, reinforcing her status as a defensive stalwart.

In terms of goal-scoring, Fowler-Nembhard once again proved why she is considered one of the best, netting a league-leading 813 goals. Her precision and commanding presence in the goal circle were crucial in the Fever’s ascent to the top ranks. Aiken-George also delivered an outstanding performance, ranking third with 517 goals, further highlighting the strength of Jamaican shooters in the league.

Fowler-Nembhard's influence extended beyond just scoring, as she led the league in goal attempts with 846, showcasing her ability to create and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Aiken-George followed closely behind, ranking third with 593 attempts, cementing her role as a vital offensive weapon for the Thunderbirds.

Defensively, Sterling-Humphrey continued to excel, leading the league with 96 deflections. Latanya Wilson, another Jamaican standout with the Thunderbirds, was second with 82 deflections, while Kadie-Ann Dehaney of the West Coast Fever secured fifth place with 56 deflections.

Sterling-Humphrey's knack for timely interceptions also saw her top the league with 44, consistently turning defense into offense with her sharp instincts. Wilson, with 42 interceptions, was right on her heels, underscoring the depth of Jamaican defensive talent in the league.

As the dust settled on the 2024 season, the Adelaide Thunderbirds, Melbourne Vixens, and West Coast Fever were all tied at the top with 44 points. This remarkable finish was a testament to the extraordinary contributions of Jamaican players, whose skills, leadership, and determination not only shaped the outcomes of individual games but also defined the season as a whole. Whether it was Fowler-Nembhard's goal-scoring prowess, Sterling-Humphrey's defensive mastery, or Aiken-George's consistency, the Jamaican stars left an indelible mark on the Suncorp Super Netball League, ensuring that their teams remained in the hunt for the championship until the very end.

Sixteen seasons, seven Grand Finals, and four Premierships. 

Romelda Aiken-George’s CV borders on unrivalled in Australian netball circles, making it even more incredible that she has been one of the final players signed over the past two Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) League seasons.

The Jamaican superstar played every game of the 2023 season for the NSW Swifts as a replacement player, including a losing Grand Final against the Thunderbirds, but was informed she would not be offered a Swifts contract ahead of the 2024 campaign. 

“At the end of last season, I knew my role in the Swifts environment,” Aiken-George said. 

Fortunately for Aiken-George, the Adelaide Thunderbirds, which also boast her Jamaican compatriots Shamera Sterling-Humphrey and Latanya Wilson, were in the market for an experienced goal shooter. 

“Tania made it clear, 'you’re coming to play your role. You’re not filling in for anyone; you’re just coming in to do your thing'. I knew I still had so much more to give,” Aiken-George explained. 

Since joining the Thunderbirds, Aiken-George has flourished under the tutelage of Obst.

The Sunshine Girl veteran played every game of the Thunderbirds premiership campaign, as she tallied more than 500 goals and led the league in offensive rebounds. 

Aiken-George cut a cool and composed figure in the goal circle for the Thunderbirds all season, offering a consistent out ball for those up court. 

She saved her best until last, though, with the champion shooter named the 2024 Grand Final Player of the Match with 42 goals and 10 offensive rebounds. 

Reflecting on the campaign, the 35-year-old said the Thunderbirds environment has allowed the best version of herself to flourish. 

“This environment I’m in, everyone is always having a hand in what I do, making sure when I rock up to training, I’m in the best mental headspace. When I look back at when I first came here, I was very closed off, but just being here, I feel like everyone helps me to bring out my weapon and to be comfortable,” Aiken-George shared.

“In that final game, Tania said something to me, and I went back out on court, and my shoulders felt as big as a backboard, and I felt like a superwoman,” she added.

With 227 games of national league experience, Aiken-George is well placed to comment on club environments and coaching structures. 

She said the Thunderbirds approach is unique and believes the open lines of communication between Obst and her players were key to their success. 

“This group is just so amazing. Every week we held each other so accountable, and there was a lot of space for learning each week. The way we analyse the game is so different from any other team I’ve been a part of, and by doing that, we pick up on little things I don’t think other teams pick up on,” Aiken-George reasoned.

“The way we look at the game through our own eyes and then chat with Tania, it’s just so great. By having those tough conversations each week, we grew and grew every week. We expect so much from each other, but in a loving way. We’ve got something special over here,” she noted.

Despite missing the 2022 season due to pregnancy, Aiken-George has maintained her lofty standards since her return, but she was quick to point out that the drive to improve still burns deep inside her. 

“I’m still trying to find ways I can make myself better. I’m just one of many women who have had a child and gone back into sports yearning for success, because that’s how we rate how we’ve done. So, I just want to play, and I just love the game,” Aiken-George ended.

Jamaican goal shooter Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard has once again demonstrated her dominance in the Suncorp Super Netball League by winning the prestigious Stacey Marinkovich Medal for the sixth time. The 35-year-old star player, who has been a cornerstone of the West Coast Fever team, secured the award after polling 10 out of 14 votes in a remarkable season.

Fowler-Nembhard, who has won the medal in six of the seven seasons she has played with the Fever, expressed her profound gratitude and joy at receiving the accolade. "Having won the Stacey Marinkovich Medal for the sixth time is an overwhelming feeling. It’s great. I am beyond honoured," she said. "I am happy to know that my performance and my hard work have been paying off and I am grateful to know that it has been recognized."

In the recently concluded season, the Fever narrowly missed out on reaching the final, losing 73-72 to the Melbourne Vixens in a nail-biting Preliminary Final last month. The Vixens went on to lose 59-57 to the Adelaide Thunderbirds, who clinched back-to-back titles. Despite the team's narrow miss, Fowler-Nembhard's individual performance was nothing short of spectacular. She led the scoring for the Fever and league with an impressive 813 goals and accumulated 1571.5 Nissan Net Points.

Reflecting on her achievement, Fowler-Nembhard said, "To be MVP for my club is a great feeling and will definitely be something that I have to look back on after I hang up my boots, knowing that I have put out so much in my career and it has paid off in numerous ways, winning these awards year-in, year-out."

The veteran player also acknowledged the collective effort of her teammates throughout the season. "I am grateful for it. I am over the moon. I am humbled by these awards as well because my teammates have put in a lot of work this season, and anyone could have won this," she noted. "But the fact that I have won gives me great pleasure to know that I am still performing at a very high standard which is what is required when you’re playing at this level, but to be able to maintain this over the years has been really good."

Fowler-Nembhard's consistency and excellence have not only been crucial for the West Coast Fever but have also set a high benchmark in the league. Her sustained performance over the years underscores her dedication, skill, and passion for the sport.

Her latest accolade adds to a storied career that will be remembered long after she decides to retire.

Shanice Beckford’s fairly successful debut season with West Coast Fever in the Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) League has not only rekindled her passion for the sport but also strengthened her resolve to continue representing Jamaica on the international stage.

Simply put, Beckford has found a new lease on life in her career.

Prior to joining West Coast Fever, where the professional environment, high level of competition, and team camaraderie were just what she needed to lift her spirit, Beckford toyed with the idea of retirement. This, as the wear and tear of the sport in a career spanning over a decade, coupled with personal and professional challenges, had taken its toll.

That, along with the fact that Beckford was convinced she had accomplished all she set out to, was among reasons why she was ready to walk away from the sport she first fell in love with as a teenager.

“I was seriously considering hanging up my shoes because, at that point, I was struggling to find the motivation to play netball at all levels. I felt like I had reached a point where I couldn't give it anymore,” Beckford shared.

“But I am now feeling more motivated than before after experiencing the game at a new level. Every week in the SSN felt like a grand final and that reignited my passion for the game, so sometimes it just takes a change of scenery and a competitive atmosphere to get back in the right frame of mind because it definitely reminded me of why I fell in love with netball in the first place,” she told Sportsmax.TV from her base in Perth, Australia.