Netball Super League | Sirens confirm final five players

Strathclyde Sirens have announced the final five names who will complete their squad of 12 for the 2024 Netball Super League season.

The Scottish side have pulled talent from across the country, including clubs such as newly branded Cardiff Dragons and Manchester Thunder.

Hannah Leighton

Hannah Leighton, who was part of the Dragons’ set up last year is one of the first five players to have made the move to Scotland. The 25 year old originally from Walsall is also part of the Scottish national team, the Scottish Thistles, and is hoping her move to the Sirens will strengthen her connections within that squad. The versatile mid-courter made an impression in the 2023 season, making 206 feeds into her shooting circle.

Head coach of Strathclyde Sirens, Lesley MacDonald said: “Everyone would have seen the quality from Hannah last season, She already has built a good connect with Emma Love and Bethan, it will be exciting to see this develop.”

Hannah showed her excitement about joining the team by saying: “It feels so special to be a part of the only Scottish franchise. Their vision for what they want to achieve on and off the court is something I’m looking forward to being a part of. ”

Top 🔟@ScotThistles end their Netball World Cup campaign in 10th place 👏#NWC2023 | @NetballScotland pic.twitter.com/RXPGZxu4XK

— World Netball (@WorldNetball_) August 5, 2023

Sesandile Owethu Ngubane

The next name that Sirens released was Sesandile Owethu Ngubane (Sammy). The South African international star made her debut on the world stage at the 2023 Netball World Cup, proving her talent which will be injected into the 2024 NSL season. The 21 year old shooter is set to make a significant impact to the Sirens squad, adding depth to their attacking unit.

MacDonald said: ““Sammy is such an exciting young talent. She brings a different style and versatility to our shooting circle.”

Ngubane disclosed that she had a tough time starting out in netball, however her love for the sport did not let that hold her back.

“I had a bad start with netball in primary school, but I didn’t let that stop me from trying again. I am proud of where I am now.”

Millie Sanders

22 year old, Manchester born and bred defender, Millie Sanders is hoping to bring more fight and determination to the Sirens defensive unit in 2024. Having three years experience of playing in the NSL under her belt, Sanders is excited to add yet another to her repertoire.

Millie won the NSL title with Manchester Thunder in 2022 and has since progressed in the international sphere, being named in the England Future Roses programme for a second time.

Coach MacDonald expressed her fondness of the defender, saying: “Millie is an exciting young defender, and her ruthless style will complement our defensive line-up.”

Sanders adds, “I’m really excited to play for Sirens in 2024 and develop my game even further. I can’t wait to get started with the girls and coaches, play in front of the amazing home crowd and be part of the Sirens tribe!”

Super excited to get started with this great team🤍 https://t.co/0DGJSJs3ci

— Millie Sanders (@MillieSanders01) September 11, 2023

Hannah Williams

Hannah Williams, formerly of Loughborough Lightning was the next name to be added to the Sirens squad for next year. At 23 years old, Williams made herself known in the netball industry from a young age, working her way up through the pathways and earning her spot in the Super League with Lightning in 2020. Her versatility in mid court and amazing work ethic sets her a good future at Sirens.

Coach Lesley MacDonald stated: “Hannah is a dynamic mid courter; great speed and vision. She can play multiple positions with great understanding of her role therefore will form a great attacking unit. Her exceptional speed and vision are sure to be assets on the court.”

super excited to get started with this team🧜‍♀️ I can’t wait to get out in front of all the sirens fans!! @SirensNetball https://t.co/UTZ8srQVcS

— Hannah Williams (@HanWilliamsx_) September 11, 2023

Iona Christian

The final name added to complete the final 12 for Sirens was newly announced mother to be, Iona Christian. After announcing her pregnancy in August, Christian was unsure whether she would be returning to court in 2024, but Sirens were there to support her at just the right time.

A big name in the netball world, not only from the NSL but the international stage too, Christian stands out from the rest with her determination on and off the court. Set to give birth in the early stages of 2024, Sirens are set to help Christian balance being a mother and full time athlete.

On social media Iona shared: “Wow, this was an opportunity I didn’t expect this season! I’m so thankful to Sirens for the support they’ve shown me as I embark on this next adventure of becoming a mother. A big thank you in particular to Karen and Lesley for keeping the door open for me to potentially get back on court with this Sirens team in 2024! I’m also looking forward to having a slightly different role helping out and learning from the coaching team in the build up to what’s going to be a super exciting season!”

Lesley MacDonald said: “We are obviously delighted to have Iona on board for the 2024 season. She brings a huge wealth of knowledge and experience from the super league and internationally; therefore, she will have a significant contribution to the team throughout the season.”