Netball Super League | Dragons capture Tyrrell signature

Celtic Dragons v Team Bath - Netball - Saturday 29th February 2020 - Cardiff Archers Arena - Cardiff © www.sportingwales.com- PLEASE CREDIT IAN COOK

Abby Tyrrell has recommitted to Celtic Dragons for a third successive season.

Tyrrell, who hails from Manchester, has risen through the ranks at Celtic Dragons to become an established Superleague starter at the franchise.

Joining the franchise prior to the 2019 season, Tyrrell worked hard to break into the starting seven under Tania Hoffman and was named the franchise’s Most Improved Player at the end of that year. She was also prominent in Dragons’ successful run to the semi-finals of the British Fast5 All-Stars tournament, as well as starting in Dragons’ three 2020 Superleague encounters.

The former England Under 21 player has recently graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University and will this year be continuing her studies at postgraduate level at Cardiff Metropolitan University. This should be a boost to Tyrrell’s training routine, with Cardiff Met playing host to Celtic Dragons as the franchise’s Official Training Home.

Reacting to news of her retention going live, Tyrrell said: “I decided to sign with Dragons again because I love the environment within the team. They have always been a very supportive club from the very first year I joined.

“I think that the Superleague will be different this year, with Leeds [Rhinos] coming in and maybe some movement from players which will be interesting and exciting to see.

“I’m really looking forward to getting back out there with the girls on court and I’m excited to hopefully see our fans again soon.”

Director of Netball, Tania Hoffman was very pleased to have Tyrrell back for another year. She said: “I am delighted that we have Abby back for her third year with us. Abby was a fantastic find for us in 2018, having been through the Manchester Thunder set-up and playing with a strong English Under 21 team. She quickly developed into a solid defender and I am excited about her potential as she continues her development with us.”

“It was a massive shame for the whole franchise, but Abby and our younger players in particular, when the pandemic caused the cancellation of the 2020 season. Abby had made three good appearances in some tough games and was set to take on a leading role in our 2020 campaign. I know that she is hungry for 2021 and ready to hit the ground running early next year.”