"I really want to push on, make the final and win the whole thing this year."
Thursday 7 November 2019 11:22, UK
Shooting-sensation Kathryn Turner will be looking to continue her Manchester Thunder legacy alongside up-and-coming mid-courter Amy Carter, after the pair were confirmed as the franchise's latest recruits for 2019.
On Tuesday, Thunder confirmed that Turner will be back in black and yellow, joining Ellie Cardwell in the shooting circle, who also rose through the youth ranks.
Turner has been named in the Superleague All-Star team of the Season for the last two years, yet shortly after the end of the 2018 season, she wrote about how she almost quit netball following a spell on the sidelines for a few years.
Nonetheless, 2019 will mark a decade at Belle Vue for the shooter, who shot at 87 per cent last year, and has had a colourful career in the Thunder dress.
"I'm really looking forward to my tenth season at Thunder and seeing all the fans at Belle Vue. Let's make it another great year."
Thunder made it two signings in two days on Wednesday with the news that Carter is the latest recruit for the the new season, penning a two-year contract after a breakthrough season last year.
The 19-year-old put in a number of player-of-the-match performances for the senior side and was also named U21 Coaches' Player the Year, capping off a successful season, with a call-up to the England Roses Fast5 squad.
"I'm really pleased to sign for the next two seasons with Thunder. I really want to push on, make the final and win the whole thing this year," she said.
Manchester Thunder managing director, Debbie Hallas, is pleased to have another youngster commit her future to Thunder as the club continue their tradition of bringing through top talent.
"Amy Carter has already been with the club for a number of years and we have watched her develop into a fine young player... We are looking forward to seeing her game improve even further and it's a testament to her ability and character to see her get the call-up to the international squad."
Hallas also commented on Turner re-signing saying: "It's so vital to have someone of Kathryn's quality in the squad, she is one of our most consistent performers season after season. It's amazing to think this will be her tenth season with us, and she keeps on getting better every year."
A frenzy of signings during the off-season has seen Thunder recruit defender Laura Malcolm, who returns to the franchise from Severn Stars, along with shooter Cardwell.
Plus, Northern Ireland international Caroline O'Hanlon has confirmed she will be battling it out again in 2019 with the Thunder. The addition of Turner and Carter confirm five solid signings for the black and yellows.
