The NSW Swifts are delighted to announce that local junior and training partner Kelly Singleton has been elevated to the senior side for the 2022 Suncorp Super Netball season.
Singleton, who already has two Swifts caps to her name after being part of extended squad for the 2020 Super Netball hub in Queensland, completes the Swifts’ 10-strong roster for their title defence.
The 23-year-old is a product of the Manly Warringah Netball Association and came through the Netball NSW pathway via underage State Teams and the NSW Waratahs (now QBE Swifts Academy).
Head coach Briony Akle, who has coached Singleton at various points along her path, said telling the attacker of her selection was a special moment.
“I have known Kelly for a good while and to see how excited she was at getting this opportunity was a real joy,” Akle said.
“Often in coaching you have to make tough calls but there are times when you see someone’s dreams come true and this was one of those moments.
“Kelly has been in our environment for a number of years also got a taste of Super Netball last year up against some pretty impressive defenders like Shamera Sterling and Geva Mentor, but she held her own.
“She grew up watching the Swifts and is aware of what the club stands for, its legacy and hunger to keep adding it.
“Kelly has worked diligently on her game and fitness over the past number of years and has really earnt this chance to show what she can do at the top level and we are backing her to shine.”
Singleton said getting the call from Akle had put her on Cloud Nine.
“This is honestly a childhood dream that’s become a reality for me,” she said.
“Getting to take the court last year in a Swifts dress was special but to earn my first full-time contract is another level and I am so honoured and thankful to all the people, from junior netball to Super Netball, who’ve helped me get to this point.
“I am having a few days to enjoy the news but then I’m turning my focus to next season and how I can play a role for the team and perform to my best.
“With two titles in three years this team is a group of winners and I want to add my name to the list of Swifts Premiership champions. I’ve got the opportunity and I’m ready for the challenge.”
With the Swifts' 2022 roster now complete, the team will turn its attention to the signing of training partners next month. Training partners cannot be signed until after October 8, which is the final day of the Super Netball trade period.
2022 NSW Swifts Roster
Maddy Proud, Paige Hadley, Sarah Klau, Maddy Turner, Helen Housby, Sam Wallace, Tayla Fraser, Teigan O’Shannassy, Allie Smith, Kelly Singleton.
Head coach: Briony Akle. Assistant coach: Bec Bulley.
