The Adelaide Thunderbirds would like to thank and acknowledge Tayla Williams, a three-time premiership player, for her five successful seasons with the club.
The South Australian midcourter has advised the club that she will be accepting an offer elsewhere for the 2027 season.
Williams became Thunderbird #99 in 2020 when she made her debut as a training partner with the Thunderbirds in the COVID-19 Queensland Hub.
She continued as a training partner in 2021 before earning her first contract for the 2022 season. She played a key role in the side’s premierships in 2023, 2024 and 2026, proving her versatility across C, WA and WD.
A natural leader, Williams joined the side’s leadership group in 2024 and was named vice-captain for the first time in 2026.
Off the court, she’s been recognised by her teammates as the recipient of the club’s Spirit Award for the past three seasons.
Thunderbirds High Performance Manager Pitre Bourdon thanked Williams for everything she has given to the Thunderbirds over the years.
“Tayla has been a big part of this club for many years now and has had a real impact both on and off the court,” Bourdon said.
“She’s grown her game substantially in the Thunderbirds environment and brought strong leadership amongst the group.
“Although we’re sad that Tayla won’t be with us in 2027, we respect her decision and wish her nothing but the best for what’s to come.”
Williams said she extended a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been a part of her journey at the Thunderbirds.
“Thank you to the Pink Army, volunteers, sponsors, staff and players for all your support and making my time with the Tbirds so enjoyable,” Williams said.
“I’ll always be incredibly grateful to Tania, Cathy and the broader Thunderbirds team for giving me an opportunity to play SSN.
“It has been an absolute privilege to wear the pink dress, and I’ll always be incredibly proud of what we’ve been able to achieve.
“I hope there are some more young South Australians out there that now want to play netball for the Thunderbirds.
“I’ll forever be grateful for my time and have a special place in my heart for this club.”
