Friday 2 September 2016 12:03, UK
Wasps Netball have signed England international Natalie Haythornthwaite as the new franchise continues its busy summer of recruitment.
The 24-year-old, who was last season's Superleague Player of the Year, is the most recent arrival for Wasps after joining from Manchester Thunder.
Haythornthwaite has also impressed for England and can fill spots at wing attack or goal attack for the Wasps.
Director of Netball Tamsin Greenway has welcomed the signing of Haythornthwaite, who joins fellow new recruits such as Georgina Fisher, Lucy Harris, Samantha May and Sophia Candappa.
"Natalie has become a key part of the national side recently, so we're thrilled to secure the services of a player of her calibre," said Greenway.
The quality and experience we have added to the squad so far shows we are aiming to hit the ground running with positive results.
"We believe Natalie will give us a competitive attacking advantage on court, as she can play in the mid court and shooting circle, she is such a creative player and I have wanted to work with her for a long time.
"The quality and experience we have added to the squad so far shows we are aiming to hit the ground running with positive results.
"We're working hard behind the scenes to put the finishing touches to what is an exciting squad ahead of our first training session in October, and hope to announce further signings soon."
Haythornthwaite was part of the Thunder side that lost to Surrey in last season's Superleague final and is relishing a fresh challenge with Wasps.
"I'm very excited about the new opportunity with Wasps Netball for the 2017 season," said Haythornthwaite.
"It has been a challenging decision for me and I would like to say a huge thank you to all the lovely people who are part of the Thunder franchise for my debut season with them in 2015/16.
"That being said, I am tremendously excited to begin this new opportunity with Wasps Netball. I'm really looking forward to seeing what Tamsin has in store for us all and getting to work with the girls."
