Netball Super League | Thunder sign young defender Airey

Manchester Thunder have signed young England defender Rebekah Airey from Loughborough Lightning.

The versatile 22-year-old, who can play at goal keeper, goal defence and wing defence, joins the Black and Yellows as the club aims to bolster their defensive unit.

Airey, who is part of the England Roses Futures programme, joins Thunder following a spell at Loughborough Lightning.

Manchester Thunder managing director Debbie Hallas said: “It’s great to have Rebekah on board to add more depth to our already experienced defensive end.

“She’s keen and eager to get going in training and is up for the challenge for fighting for a starting place.

“Bekah is hungry for success and Thunder is the right place for her to be for that.”

Check out what Rebekah had to say about joining Thunder when we fired some questions over to her…

You’re moving from Lightning to Thunder, what was the main reason behind the switch?

RA: I had a great time at Lightning but it was time for me to move back home. I want to develop and push myself further than I ever have before and be the best I can possibly be. Being at Manchester Thunder and being coached by Karen Greg will definitely help me do that.

What are you most looking forward to, playing at Thunder?

RA: Being surrounded by some of the best players and coaches in the league and being cheered on by the best fans in the league!

You’re going to be working with two of the most experienced defenders in the league in Emma Dovey and Kerry Almond, are you looking forward to that challenge?

RA: Absolutely, I’ll be soaking up the netball knowledge from Kerry and Emma as much as possible and am really looking forward to getting stuck in and challenging them for a position on court.

What are your personal goals for the upcoming season and what can you bring to the squad as a player?

RA: My personal goal for this season is to become a better player all round, faster, quicker and to read the game better so I can get as many intercepts and disruptions as possible- Basically be the biggest hassle to whoever I play against!

I’ll be bringing a strong work ethic and a bubbly personality that no one can pop.

There have been plenty of big name signings in the Superleague in the off-season. How do you think it will affect the league?

RA: It’ll be interesting to see how the league develops but at the end of the day we’re just gonna focus on us and our game and that’ll get us to the finals.