Netball Super League | Roses stars re-sign for Lightning

England internationals Beth Cobden, Ella Clark, Hannah Joseph and Nat Panagarry have all signed on the dotted line to extend their stays with Loughborough Lightning Netball ahead of the 2018 Vitality Netball Superleague (VNSL) season.

Lightning captain Nat Panagarry was pivotal in ensuring Lightning topped the Superleague table at the end of the regular season in 2017, and she’ll look to ensure the side go one better, lifting the series crown in 2018.

Beth Cobden joined the Loughborough University franchise just last season but has also committed her future to the side in purple. The wing defender was a key player for Lightning in 2017, confirmed by being named in the VNSL All Star VII.

Lightning stalwart Hannah Joseph has also re-signed, the Loughborough University alumna having been a key member of the squad over the last five years.

The final England international who’ll remain with Lightning for the forthcoming season is goal attack Ella Clark, who was a key addition to the squad in 2017. Despite joining the squad later than her teammates, Clark didn’t take long to settle in and made a good impression.

Of re-signing captain Nat Panagarry said:

“I’m delighted to re-signing with Lightning this season. After a successful 2016/17 season I’m excited to get back on the court and train with the squad.

“With so many players re-signing our team and culture is going to be very similar to last year, so hopefully we can push on, having learnt a lot last year, and lift that trophy.”

Cobden added:

“I’m really excited to get back into training with the girls and continue to build on our culture and style of play that worked so well for us last year. It will also be great to have Anna on board and see what extra knowledge and motivation she can bring to the team.”

Of her stint with Lightning Hannah Joseph commented:

“I’m so excited to be starting my sixth season at Loughborough. It’s great to see how much this club has progressed over the years and I think this could be our best year yet.”

Clark, who is currently in a period of rehabilitation following an ACL injury at the back end of the 2017 season concluded:

“I’m very excited to be back at Lightning with such a talented team. My rehab is going great and I’m excited to take to the court in February.”

For all of the latest Loughborough Lightning news, head to their official website.