After an exceptional fifteen season career and four super league titles, it is with a mixture of pride and sadness that Manchester Thunder announces the official retirement of netball legend, Kerry Almond. Although Almond initially announced her retirement in 2019, fortunately, this was short lived as Almond was swiftly drafted due to the late withdrawal of Loreen Ngwira ahead of the 2021 season, and her passion and commitment to Thunder meant we had the privilege of Kerry returning to court, bolstering the defensive unit for a further four seasons.
Despite facing challenges this 2024 season due to injury, Kerry still left her mark on court appearing in the key moments of the 2024 Grand-Final against Loughborough Lightning. The final result was not in Thunder’s favour, however, Kerry made an indelible impact as the team celebrated their victory as the 2024 NSL league winners, ending the season six points clear of second place Lightning.
Manchester Thunder have had the pleasure of Kerry’s talent, wisdom and expertise since the beginning in 2008, when the team were known as ‘Northern Thunder’ and were playing to crowds of less than 50 people. Fast forward to today, and her unwavering commitment and extraordinary talent have been instrumental in the team’s evolution and success.
Kerry’s dedication has been pivotal, winning four Super League titles including the unforgettable 2022 season where the team remained unbeaten. Now playing to record breaking crowds of over 8,000 in the Grand Final, it is a testament to the growth of the sport and Kerry’s influential presence.
Kerry said, “Thunder has played a huge part in my life, since 2008, but it’s time for me to hang up the black and yellow for the final time. It’s been an incredible period in my life, and I cannot thank the club, the volunteers, and the fans enough for everything. I am truly grateful for every single second with this special club and I cannot wait to support the team and whatever awaits them in NSL 2.0 and beyond.”
Former team-mate and current Head Coach, Karen Greig said, “I want to celebrate the extraordinary career of a remarkable athlete whose dedication, passion, and perseverance have set a standard for all who follow. Kerry’s commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, has not only brought success to our team but has also inspired countless others. It’s been an honour to both play alongside as a teammate and coach such a dedicated athlete, and while I will miss Kerry, I am excited to see where her post netball athlete commitments will take her.”
“After a pause for her first retirement in 2019 she came back with a bang and played some of the best netball of her career. She has dedicated over 15 years to our wonderful club and certainly leaves a legacy behind. Saying someone is a club legend may come too easy at times, but Kerry has more than earned that title. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and the lasting impact you’ve made on this club and our great sport.”
Almond’s outstanding contributions will forever be etched in the history of Manchester Thunder. We wish her all the best in her future endeavours within the sport and thank her for the unforgettable memories and achievements.
“There’s only one Kerry Almond, only one Kerry Almond!”
