Cobden has been part of the English Roses full-time program since 2016 and played a pivotal role in England’s gold medal win at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
For the past three Vitality Netball Superleague (VNSL) seasons Cobden has lined up for Loughborough Lightning. This past season she was nominated for the Superleague Player of the Season and was named in the VNSL All Star VII at wing defence in 2017 and 2018.
Cobden said “Playing in the SSN has been a dream of mine and I am so excited to become a Thunderbird. I am ready for the challenge and cannot wait to get out on the court and experience the intensity and standard of the league.”
“Over the past season I was really happy with how I developed as a player and felt I was learning so much on the international stage and at Loughborough Lightning. I think my vision of the game, the use of my arms and voice, and identifying where I can win ball have all improved. However, I know I have much more to give so I am looking forward to continuing to push myself to become a better athlete in the SSN.”
Cobden’s signing with the Adelaide Thunderbirds sees her join her 2018 Loughborough Lightning teammate and international Jamaican defender Shamera Sterling, who was the first player announced for the Thunderbirds 2019 roster.
She also joins fellow Rose midcourter Chelsea Pitman, and Adelaide Thunderbirds Head Coach Tania Obst, who is England’s assistant coach.
Obst said “Beth is an elite, athletic, specialist wing defence who also covers the centre position. Her ability to deny and restrict her opponent is a highlight of her game.”
“She has flourished on the international stage for the past two years and was an integral member of England’s Commonwealth Games gold medal win.”
Cobden is currently in rehabilitation following a knee injury sustained in the 2018 VNSL Grand Final.
Obst said the Adelaide Thunderbirds will continue to work closely the English Roses medical staff.
“We are confident Beth will return quickly given she is a diligent athlete currently participating full-time in the English Roses’ comprehensive rehabilitation program,” she said.
The Adelaide Thunderbirds will provide updates on Cobden’s rehabilitation in due course.
Cobden’s signing brings up the total number of players announced for the Adelaide Thunderbirds 2019 roster to eight. The club’s final two signings will be announced following the Quad Series.
Beth Cobden
Age: 25 (date of birth 3/2/1993)
Height: 178cm
Positions: WD, C
Previous clubs: Loughborough Lightning (2016-2018), Manchester Thunder (2011-2015)
Achievements: 2018 Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist, 2017 Fast5 World Series Gold Medallist, 2017 and 2018 VNSL All Star VII (named WD), Superleague Champions 2012, 2014
