The return of key defenders Casey Kopua and Kelly Jury along with a new look shooting circle feature in the Waikato-BOP Magic’s 2019 team.
Both Kopua and Jury return from injury for next year’s ANZ Premiership which starts in February.
Joining the experienced duo is new signing Jenna O’Sullivan who makes the step up from the Beko Netball League. O’Sullivan made a seamless transition into the Premiership when called on to cover injury late in the season.
It will however be a new-look shooting circle for the Magic, with Kelsey McPhee earning promotion to the ANZ Premiership as reward for a stand-out season with Waikato-BOP in the Beko Netball League.
New Zealand-born shooter Abigail Latu-Meafou is another new face in the side having played for the Adelaide Thunderbirds in the 2018 Australian Super League.
Latu-Meafou, was born in Auckland but grew up playing Netball at Western Districts Netball Association. She made her debut for the Mystics in 2016 as a replacement player, before picking up a Super League contract with the Queensland Firebirds in 2017.
Both she and McPhee join Monica Falkner who will suit up for her third season in Waikato-BOP Magic colours.
The mid-court has a settled look to it with Silver Fern star Samantha Sinclair an experience cog through the middle, alongside Ariana Cable-Dixon.
Sydney Fraser returns from an injury-plagued two years while Lisa Mather, who made her Magic debut earlier this year as injury cover, is also included.
New coach Amigene Metcalfe said she was looking forward to working with the mix of experienced players and new signings.
“It’s exciting to have both Casey and Kelly back from injury after what was a tough season, and the experience they will bring to the Magic’s defence is really important to us,” she said.
“There is also the unknown element that Abigail and Kelsey bring to our shooting circle along with the flair and determination that we know come from Sam and Ariana in the mid-court.
“There’s a really good mix for the Magic and we can’t wait to put it all together for the new Premiership season.”
The Magic hosts the opening weekend of the 2019 ANZ Premiership with the first of three Super Sunday events. They meet the Mainland Tactix at Claudelands Arena in Hamilton on February 24.
2019 Waikato-BOP Magic roster:
Defenders – Casey Kopua (captain), Kelly Jury, Jenna O’Sullivan
Mid-court – Samantha Sinclair (vice-captain), Ariana Cable-Dixon, Lisa Mather, Sydney Fraser
Shooters – Monica Falkner, Abigail Latu-Meafou, Kelsey McPhee.
