WITH the 2020 season of the Vitality Netball Superleague now upon us, we take a look at each team heading into a massive year in Superleague netball. The next team in our season preview is Surrey Storm.
Coach: Mikki Austin
2019 finish: 8th (6-12)
Storm really slid under the radar in 2019, finding some form but ultimately unable to bring the consistency they needed to really sink their teeth into the competition. While they were a steady improver, there was no real game-changer in the side who could turn a game on its head, making the side one that did not provide a load of excitement despite the amount of young talent on the court.
2020 predictions:
Surrey Storm will look to go one better this season and really rack up the victories they had the talent to win last season but just were not able to finish off to the standard they wanted often falling away when it counted. But with some handy new inclusions to the side, they will hope to collect a couple more wins and apply a bit more pressure to the higher rungs of the ladder and close up the gap at the middle of the ladder. Mikki Austin had a player-coach role last season and elevated her side’s gameplay with her ability to slot into the lineup, and with plenty of other impact players on the bench the side could be a real contender this season. Former Firebirds defender Leah Middleton will be hoping to get some court time with the Storm while new comer Charlotte Curtis could be that extra spark they needed down back.
Key pick-up: Karyn Bailey GS (Saracens Mavericks)
The Australian goaler has a real way about her under the post. Her cleanliness and accuracy was really valued last season with the Mavericks and she could be a real big listing for the Storm. While she did not get a wealth of court time last season recovering from injury, her ability to create opportunities both in and around the circle is second to none. Bailey is consistent and has a high netball IQ able to vary her game style depending on what is needed whether it be a holding shooter or getting on the move. With experience to boot, she will offer plenty of understanding and guidance in the attacking third for the young up and coming Storm players.
Team list:
Mikki Austin
Yasmin Parsons
Katy Hughes
Niamh Cooper (Kingsway, Northern Ireland)
Yasmin Hodge-England
Emily Gulvin
Sophie Hankin (Saracens Mavericks)
Alima Priest
Lorraine Kowalewska
Karyn Bailey (Saracens Mavericks)
Leah Goss
Nicole Humphrys
Ellie Kelk
Charlotte Curtis (Team Bath)
Leah Middleton (Queensland Firebirds)
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