Yorkshire Jets sign Fiji Pearls vice-captain Maria Lutua
Sunday 6 December 2015 14:26, UK
Yorkshire Jets are further strengthening their squad for the new Vitality Netball Superleague season with the signing of Fiji international shooter Maria Lutua.
Lutua, the vice-captain of her country's team, will join Anna Carter's new-look squad for 2016. The 26-year-old has 52 caps - playing in the last two World Cups after making her international debut in 2009.
She was last in the UK in 2010 when she was part of the Celtic Dragons' training squad.
"This is such an exciting journey knowing that I will be returning to the UK to play in a Superleague team," said Lutua.
"I think Yorkshire Jets is one of the best and most exciting teams to be part of and playing for them in 2016 will be an exciting challenge to adjust and adapt to the Vitality Netball Superleague.
"I am looking forward to be working with Anna Carter and to help the team on its mission during this season.
"I'm also passionate about promoting netball and believe that this could be an opening to allow more girls from Fiji to play at this level in the future. I hope Fijians already in the UK will support me and Yorkshire Jets this season."
Lutua is the latest new addition to the Jets squad ahead of the new season following England World Cup star Stacey Francis and Australian Sophie Halpin.
Head coach Carter said she was looking forward to Lutua's arrival.
"Maria is an outstanding netballer and leader on court and we are delighted to be bringing her to the Vitality Netball Superleague and Yorkshire Jets in 2016," Carter said.
"Her experience as the vice-captain of the Fiji Pearls and playing in two World Cups will be invaluable for Jets as part of a new look squad for the new season."
