Defensive midcourter Allie Smith is staying in NSW after recommitting to the Swifts for another two seasons.
A 2020 Premiership player with the Melbourne Vixens, Smith moved north in 2022 and has quickly become a key part of the Swifts’ midcourt and defensive units.
Despite suffering a foot injury in 2023, Smith played a vital role in the Club’s march to the Suncorp Super Netball Minor Premiership, taking out the MVP award in the Swifts’ thrilling Round 6 win over the Vixens at Ken Rosewall Arena.
A versatile athlete, Smith has played most of her Swifts career at wing defence, but also covers goal defence.
Smith said re-signing with the seven-time Premiers was an easy choice to make.
“I have loved my time with the Swifts so far and feel really at home in Sydney,” she said.
“While injury ruled me out for the Finals Series in 2023, I felt I was playing really good netball and that has given me confidence looking ahead.
“My teammates, coaches and the wider staff are all exceptionally supportive and there is a real family vibe at the Club which is pretty infectious when you come here.
“I obviously grew up in Victoria and making the move in 2022 was a little dauting at the time, but the support here has been fantastic and I am really grateful for it.
“Playing in front of packed house at Ken Rosewall Arena is also pretty cool so I’m very happy with where I am just now.
“I cannot wait to bounce back in 2024 and committing to the Swifts for two seasons really helps when it comes to setting performance goals.
“We want to win Premierships together, and I also want to put myself in the frame for higher honours and join my teammates in the international ranks. I believe this environment provides the best opportunity for me to achieve both.”
Swifts head coach Briony Akle praised Smith’s resilience and contribution to the wider team.
“Allie had some injury setbacks in 2023 but that didn’t limit her ability to provide key support to the environment,” she said.
“She was playing brilliant netball before her foot injury and we know that she has the ability to become one of the premier midcourters not just in Australia, but in world netball.
“Her commitment to training and recovery is second to none and her maturity and team-first approach, despite personal disappointment, really impressed us last year so she’s really earned this contract.
“I’ve always said great people make great Swifts and we are delighted to have Allie locked in for the next two years.”
