Severn Stars will show what netball is all about, says former Worcester Reds captain Rachel Sweet

The former Worcester Reds captain, who joined the city’s new professional club in October, believes they can help change people’s perception of the sport.

Stars, who will play their home games at the University of Worcester Arena, are gearing up for their first ever league match on Saturday when they travel to Surrey Storm in Guildford (7pm).

Sweet said they were all looking forward to getting the campaign under way after an intense pre-season which started four months ago.

And the 31-year-old hopes her side can make an impression on the people of Worcester as they aim to build a fan-base.

“When you think about netball you think about pleated skirts, big bibs and the old school one-two-catch,” she said.

“But it is a lot faster than that and hopefully people can come, see what netball is all about and get behind us.

“We are obviously a new franchise so it is about building relationships but we are out there to make an impact and get into that top four.”

Sweet got her first taste of Superleague action last season when she played for Loughborough Lightning.

But the Bromsgrove-based player admitted she jumped at the chance of playing for Stars who secured a place in the televised league following a joint bid by the Worcester and Gloucestershire universities.

“I was excited straight away and knew I wanted to trial for the team,” Sweet said.

“I played for Lightning last year so I am hoping to build on that experience and get some good court time this season.

“It was good at Loughborough but it was difficult because of the commute so this year is a lot easier and nicer to play for a local team.”

The goalkeeper-goal defence has represented Worcester Reds along with her twin sister Rebecca Sweet for more than a decade “Netball has grown over the last few years so to have a franchise within our region is so good for the youngsters coming through,” she said.

Head coach Mo’onia Gerrard has spoken of her lofty ambitions for Stars who have signed England internationals Jodie Gibson, Laura Malcolm and Eleanor Cardwell.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Afeisha Noel and Australia’s Josie Janz-Dawson have also strengthened the squad.

“Pre-season has been long and intense but it has been really enjoyable,” Sweet added.

“There is great talent all the way through the team so hopefully you will see some strong netball being played.

“It is nice to be able to start something from the beginning.

“It has been slow building but it is really good to put our own identity onto it.”