GIANTS Netball have locked in their shooting circle for 2021, today announcing the signing of up-and-coming New South Wales goaler Sophie Dwyer.
Dwyer joined the GIANTS’ program as a training partner for season 2020 and was included in the club’s 13-player squad that spent the 2020 season in the Queensland hub.
The 18-year-old made her elite netball debut in round one of Suncorp Super Netball this season, entering the game to sink two Suncorp Super Shots in the last five minutes of the opening match.
Dwyer graciously admitted that the news of her elevation to the main squad felt quite surreal.
“When Julie called me, I couldn’t believe it and I felt extremely honoured,” she said.
“Coming up through the Netball NSW pathway, playing in the Suncorp Super Netball competition was always the goal, especially for my home state, and now that I’ve signed for next year it’s all really exciting.”
The 183cm goaler took the court on two occasions in season 2020 and says she is grateful for the opportunity to be part of the group.
“Being a part of the extended squad that travelled up to Queensland really made me realise how much I wanted to be a contracted player and how important it is to make the most of any opportunity,” she said.
“The work ethic and professionalism of all the GIANTS players is very high, centred around playing and excelling at the elite level and I’ve experienced first-hand the welcoming vibe and spirit of the GIANTS.”
Dwyer is regarded as one of the most promising goalers in the next generation of Australian talent.
“In 2021 I’m hoping to build on and refine my strength, whilst also adding to my bag of tricks as a player,” she said.
“I’ll be surrounded by so much experience in both the coaches and players, especially with the talent of Jo Harten and Kiera Austin in the shooting end.”
Dwyer adds to a strong cohort of New South Wales athletes within the GIANTS’ squad to date, with eight of the nine contracted athletes having made their way through the Netball NSW Pathway.
Current 2021 Squad:
Keira Austin, Sophie Dwyer, Jo Harten, Maddie Hay, Kristiana Manu’a, Matilda McDonell, Amy Parmenter, Sam Poolman, Jamie-Lee Price.
