SEVERN Stars have signed two further players as they build towards their first season in Vitality Netball Superleague.
Becky Oatley and Sophie Carter have joined the Worcester-based club from Celtic Dragons and Superleague semi-finalists Hertfordshire Mavericks respectively.
Thirty-one-year-old Oatley, who has three caps for Wales, said: “I'm delighted to be joining Severn Stars.
“The coaching set-up, environment and ethos they are creating is really exciting.
“I'm really proud and humbled to be a part of it.”
Mid-court player Carter, who has played for England under-19s, said she was keen to be part of the new franchise, set up by the Universities of Worcester and Gloucestershire.
“I think the prospect of being a part of something brand new is really exciting as we can establish our culture and environment from the start,” the 20-year-old said.
“I have confidence that the coaching line up will be able to help build a really strong team as well as personally helping me to develop as a player.
“I know I’ll learn a lot from the players around me and I cannot wait for pre-season to get started.”
The double swoop follows the recent signings of England trio Eleanor Cardwell, Jodie Gibson and Laura Malcolm.
Joint director of netball Pamela Cookey, said: “I'm very excited with how the team is shaping up. Sophie is a young, intelligent mid-courter itching to show what she can do.
“Becky was sharp with good game sense at Dragons last season.”
Head coach Mo'onia Gerrard added: “Rebecca, having experienced the Superleague competition with the Dragons, will give the team an edge and I like that she is a ‘gutsy’ player.
“Sophie is also a strong player who has huge potential to continue to develop.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here