South Australian rising star Georgie Horjus will officially become an Adelaide Thunderbird next season after signing with the club for 2021.
The 18-year-old was a training partner with the Thunderbirds in 2020 and burst onto the Suncorp Super Netball scene after being elevated to the extended squad of 12.
The Kangaroo Island talent made her mark in both goal attack and wing attack, proving her invaluable versatility in the pink dress.
“Georgie was a real shining light for us in 2020 and impressed us week-in, week-out as she adapted to SSN level,” Adelaide Thunderbirds High Performance Manager Pitre Bourdon said.
“To play in the best netball competition in the world, you have to be versatile and Georgie has that in spades.
“She is an incredibly mature and talented 18-year-old, and we cannot wait to see what she brings to the team in 2021.”
Horjus said she was thrilled to officially become a Thunderbird, realising a childhood dream.
“Coming through the Netball SA Pathways, being a Thunderbird has been a dream of mine for a long time and although I did not expect it this early, I’m just so excited for what’s to come,” Horjus said.
“Playing for the Tbirds in 2020 was the best experience, it was such an honour to pull on the pink dress and I absolutely loved it.
“Making my debut was a massive highlight of my year, but I also cherished the opportunity to play with and against the best netballers in the world - I was very star struck and always will be."
Horjus started her netball career with Parndana Netball Club on Kangaroo Island. Her talent was quickly identified as she came through the Netball SA Academy pathways and eventually joined Contax Netball Club in the Netball SA Premier League.
She has also spent the past two years with the South Australian Sports Institute, receiving technical on court support and physical development supported by the SASI Gym and Strength and Conditioning staff.
In 2019, she represented South Australia at the National Netball Championships, playing a key role in the victorious U17s side.
“All the love and support I’ve received from not just back home on Kangaroo Island but all of South Australia and the Pink Army has meant the world to me," Horjus said.
“I’m just so keen to get back on court for pre-season and continue to build connections with the girls and get to know each other’s game styles even better.”
