Tuesday 2 April 2019 17:05, UK
After Cat Tuivaiti announced at the end of March that 'Team Tuivaiti is becoming Three', Wasps Netball's Sophia Candappa has also shared the news that she is expecting her first child in September.
Tuivaiti arrived in Superleague at the start of the season and ignited the competition as part of Strathclyde Sirens with her exceptional flair and skillset. However, with her health first and foremost, the shooter's time on court has been cut short and she has returned home.
"This is one of the happiest times of my life. To finally be able to start a family with my husband is a dream come true," said Tuivaiti at the time of her first announcement.
"But the timing of everything has been the hardest pill to swallow. I didn't think my journey in Scotland would end like this but everyone has been so accommodating and understanding.
"The fans and supporters here at the Strathclyde Sirens are relentless and proud. That's exactly what netball needs.
"I'm so proud to call myself a Siren, even if only for a short period. Thank you for welcoming me into this beautiful country and netballing community, and you will see me again soon (plus one)."
Wasps' vice-captain Candappa will also hang up her dress for the rest of the season but will remain with the side in a leadership role.
The 26-year-old joined the defending champions ahead of their inaugural Vitality Netball Superleague season in 2017 and has been vice-captain from day one.
"Sophia is a fantastic athlete and person and I know will make a wonderful mother. We are delighted for her and are all supporting her through her first pregnancy," said head coach Mel Mansfield.
"Whilst Sophia won't be playing for the rest of the season, she is a leader on and off the court and her continued presence in the squad will be invaluable."
Candappa herself is planning to return to Superleague in the future and is eager to combine motherhood and her sporting career.
"I feel very strongly about returning and being at my best, I've always been very passionate that women in professional sport should be able to return at the top level after pregnancy," said Wasps' vice-captain.
"My team-mates are all really pleased for me but of course there was an element of surprise! It was special to share the moment with them.
"Wasps have been brilliant. It's always a bit daunting announcing something like this but Mel Mansfield, Sarah Taylor and our physio Andrew Holbrook have been really supportive and are pleased for me and Murray."
Watch more Vitality Netball Superleague as Loughborough Lightning host Surrey Storm live on Sky Sports Mix on Monday, April 8 and the match will be streamed live on the Sky Sports YouTube channel. Also, Sky Sports will be showing every game of the Vitality Netball World Cup 2019 in July.
