Share Loughborough Lightning have revealed that fan favourite Lauren Nicholls will return to the side in 2020. Nicholls – also known as ‘steaders’ – took time out in 2019 to have a baby and is now preparing for a new challenge juggling motherhood and training. Having previously combined her performance schedule with university studies, football and more recently her full-time role as Head of Netball at Oakham School, Nicholls is eager to get back on court with the side she calls her second family. “The last few months for me have been crazy, amazing and tiring, but it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me, our little girl Maya is amazing,” she said. “Although she is my priority and I will now always put her first, I’m excited to get back on court with the girls and get back to being myself and doing what I love.” When asked about the challenges she may face coming back to elite sport after giving birth, Nicholls showed no qualms: “I’ve rehabbed before from an ACL injury in 2016, so I know I can be patient with getting back to fitness and know that it’s possible to get back to full strength. The support team at Loughborough has also been great in helping me and understanding my needs to get there.” A firm fan favourite amongst the local crowds, Lauren is excited to make her return: “I’m looking forward to getting back out in front of the home crowd. I’ve been around Loughborough for a long time now and have a lot of family and friends who always come out to support. The crowd is amazing at Lightning, whether you’re on court or in the stands with them, they’re always behind you. I still remember the noise in the arena when I stepped back on court after injury, it was definitely a career highlight.” Head Coach Sara Bayman shared the importance of having experienced players like Lauren in the squad: “It’s great to have Lauren back in Lightning colours. She has a wealth of experience in this league, and within Lightning, and will contribute hugely on and off the court.” Lauren is the latest addition to the 2020 side with more players set to be announced in the coming days. Keep your eyes peeled to find out the final line up for Lightning’s upcoming campaign. Loughborough Lightning 2020 squad so far: Nat Panagarry Sam May Ella Clark Hannah Joseph Jasmin Odeogberin Lucy Parize Annabel Roddy Suzie Liverseidge Alice Harvey Beth Gabriel Lauren Nicholls To stay up to date with the Vitality Netball Superleague, including player movements, tickets and the latest news make sure you sign up to the Vitality Netball Superleague mailing list, you can sign up here. Related news post 10 hours ago Where to Watch: Round 10 Reading: 6 mins Cardiff Dragons London Pulse Loughborough Lightning Manchester Thunder Saracens Mavericks Severn Stars Strathclyde Sirens Surrey Storm Team Bath Related players: Lauren Nicholls Tags: VNSL 2020 Previous Story Stembridge adds attacking threat with Creak signing Next Story Tash Pavelin relishing return to Team Bath More News 10 hours ago News Where to Watch: Round 10 Reading: 6 mins 1 day ago News Non-stop Ellie Ervine relishing role at Team Bath Reading: 4 mins 1 day ago News Vote for your favourite players: Win tickets to the NSL Grand Final 2024! Reading: 1 min 16th Apr 2024 News Nicola Smith already at home in Loughborough Reading: 4 mins 16th Apr 2024 News Round 9: Pulse earn thrilling win over Mavericks Reading: 5 mins More Google Ad – MPU – Right Column