Netball: Casey Kopua to return for 15th season with the Magic

Magic captain Casey Kopua. Photosport

Former Silver Ferns captain Casey Kopua will return for her 15th season in Magic colours in 2018.

The star defender, who debuted for the Waikato-Bay of Plenty franchise in 2003, is among a handful of signings announced by the Magic today.Kopua will be joined on court by a trio of young talent in Sam Sinclair, Kelly Jury and Monica Falkner, who have all recommitted to the franchise after making an impact in the inaugural 2017 ANZ Premiership. Such was their performances throughout the ANZ Premiership season that all three players have secured themselves places in the Silver Ferns Squad for the 2017/8 season.

Having also played an integral role in the New Zealand team at the Netball World Youth Cup 2017 in Botswana recently, Kelly Jury and Monica Falkner will be back on court for Magic and looking to build momentum.

Magic coach Marg Forsyth said she was extremely happy to secure this group of returning talent, and with their mixture of experience and youth, is excited about the possibilities to bring to the court for the 2018 season.

"Last season was all about building for us and we put out some really strong performances that took a lot of people by surprise. Next year is going to be about building on that and really developing the players both as individuals and as part of a team. I'm excited to see the squad come together and for what I know we can achieve."

The return of Sinclair to the mid-court delivers a mixture of experience and youth. Sinclair made her debut for the Magic in 2014 as an 18 year old youngster. Her performances for the Magic over the following seasons impressed, earning her a call up to the national team and making her debut for the Silver Ferns in 2017 against Australia.

Although retired from international netball Kopua's passion for the game has not dulled, putting in a sterling performance in the ANZ Premiership.

"The impact of having Casey in the team isn't really something that can be measured. She provides valuable leadership and guidance, as well as setting the standards for excellence that we look for both on and off the court," said Forsyth.