Training Partner Jemma Donoghue has signed with Leeds Rhino Netball for the remainder of the English Netball Super League season.
Donoghue has been a Training Partner with the GIANTS since 2021 and made her Suncorp Super Netball debut in round one last year.
The versatile defender is a member of the Australian U21 side and has represented New South Wales at both U17s and U19s levels.
The 21-year-old has English connections - both her parents are English - and Donoghue herself was born in Chelsea in the United Kingdom.
Donoghue was approached by the Rhinos following the unavailability of two of their South African International players due to injury.
GIANTS Head Coach Julie Fitzgerald said she was excited for Donoghue.
“It’s a bit bittersweet. We’re sad to lose her from our program, but what an exciting opportunity for her,” she said.
“At the end of the day we want everyone within our program to be playing netball at the highest level they possibly can and if that opportunity arises elsewhere or overseas, we’re in full support of our players taking that opportunity up.
“Jemma has the full support and encouragement from everyone at the GIANTS and we look forward to seeing what she can do over in England.
“We’ll get through the opening few rounds of the season before we look into making any decisions regarding replacing her as a training partner.”
Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Liana Leota added:
“For me Jemma is exciting as she can cover all three positions, and is very similar to Vicki Oyesola, with a hunting style and can take out a goal attack or a goal shooter and turn over loads of ball and is also super fit,” she said.
“It's a massive signing for us, especially because she was with the GIANTS and was going to be involved with them this season before we came along with this opportunity. We are very lucky to get her and I’m looking forward to seeing her represent the Rhinos.”
Donoghue has already made the move to the UK and has started training with the Rhinos.
