Manchester Thunder’s defensive duo of Emma Dovey and Rebekah Airey are returning to the Superleague Champions for 2020.
Dovey, who has been Thunder Captain for the past three years and will continue in the role for the new season, has played her entire senior career with Thunder and is a hugely influential part of the team both on and off court.
Airey, who joined Thunder last season, is one of the full-time athletes on England Netball’s Vitality Roses programme. She will also play for England at the Netball Europe Open next weekend in Belfast.
The pair take to nine the number of players confirmed for Thunder’s title defence campaign, which begins in February.
Thunder’s Director of Netball Karen Greig said:
“It’s great to have our Captain back. Emma has been solid for us over the past 11 years and brings that experience to our defensive unit. She will be looking to develop a partnership with our new signing Lauren, and continue to build the partnership with Rebekah.
“Rebekah brings us great energy both on and off court. We saw massive growth in her play last season and she will be key for us as she can cover all three defensive positions.
“Our defence unit is looking exciting and I can’t wait to see them working together.”
Thunder Captain Emma Dovey added:
“I’m delighted to be back with Thunder and back as Captain. It’s an honour to be able to lead my teammates on court and, after an incredible season just gone, we want to go on and do the double by winning the 2020 title too, cheered on by the amazing crowd at Belle Vue week-in, week-out.”