South Australian emerging shooter Lucy Austin has earnt her first Suncorp Super Netball contract after signing with the Adelaide Thunderbirds for 2023.
Following two years as a training partner with the club, the 20-year-old from Matrics Netball Club joins the list of contracted 10 for next season.
Austin made a name for herself in her three SSN appearances in 2022 after debuting in Round 6 against the Melbourne Vixens and picking up the fan-voted MVP award.
She shined in Round 11 against the Collingwood Magpies, shooting 49/53 at 92.5%.
Thunderbirds’ High Performance Manager Pitre Bourdon said Austin had proven she deserved a contract.
“Lucy has worked very hard over the past two years as a training partner with the club and has done everything we’ve asked of her to bring her game to the level it’s at today,” Bourdon said.
“She made the most of her opportunities at SSN level in 2022 and it’s very special for us to now be able to offer her a contract as part of our 10.
“Developing and rewarding our South Australian talent has been important to us and we’re proud to help Lucy take that next step.
“She is a much-loved member of our team, and we look forward to working with her even closer in 2023.”
Austin said she was excited and grateful for the opportunity to represent the club she loves.
“I’ve been working hard for this for many years now and my dream has finally come true,” Austin said.
“To play alongside some of the world’s best netballers and to work with someone like Eleanor Cardwell, I’m going to learn so much and I can’t wait to get started.
“We have such a dedicated and passionate group at the Thunderbirds and I’m so excited for us to take it to a whole new level next year.”
Austin joins already contracted Thunderbirds Matilda Garrett, Georgie Horjus, Maisie Nankivell, Hannah Petty, Shamera Sterling, and Latanya Wilson on the club’s list for 2023, as well as recently announced recruit Eleanor Cardwell.
