Swifts ‘nerd’ returns, more Kiwis sign in Super Netball
Sebastian Tan |
Self-confessed NSW Swifts nerd Tayla Fraser is back where she belongs after securing a deal with her childhood netball club.
The Swifts announced the midcourter’s signing on Thursday, bringing to an end Fraser’s stay at the Melbourne Mavericks whom she joined at the end of 2023.
Fraser played in three grand finals for NSW, winning in 2019 and 2021.
“I grew up supporting the Swifts, and getting to wear the dress and win titles in it was the stuff of dreams,” Fraser said.
“When I left the Swifts at the end of 2023, I always felt like I would want to come back someday, and now feels right.
“Many of the players I shared great days with are still there and with some really exciting new faces I cannot wait to see what 2026 brings.
“Those who know me are also aware that I am a self-confessed Swifts nerd and passionate about the history and legacy of the Club.”
The Swifts also confirmed the re-signings of impact substitute Teigan O’Shannassy, after her defence spurred a breakout season for the 26-year-old, and Kiwi Grace Nweke.
Midcourter Allie Smith, however, was not offered a new contract.
Up north, the Queensland Firebirds poached another Silver Fern in Maddy Gordon after New Zealand changed their eligibility rules allowing Kiwi players to feature in Super Netball.
She will join fellow Kiwi Kelly Jackson, who also signed with the Firebirds on Tuesday.
The Adelaide Thunderbirds, meanwhile, have replaced star shooter Romelda Aiken-George with South African international Elmere van der Berg.
The 24-year-old scored the most goals (567) in the UK’s Super Netball League in 2025, making 92 per cent of her shots.
The Thunderbirds also secured the services of Kiwi Commonwealth Games representative Kate Heffernan, who co-captained the Southern Steel in New Zealand’s ANZ Premiership.
In other big deals, West Coast hot-shot Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard re-signed with the Fever after netting the most goals (724) last season.
Among the big-name players yet to finalise their futures are former New Zealand Ferns captain Gina Crampton, Diamond Steph Fretwell and 2020 grand final MVP Mwai Kumwenda as the transfer window continues.
AAP
