Bella Baylis joins NIC Leeds Rhinos for 2026 season

NIC Leeds Rhinos Netball have secured the signing of two-time NSL winner Bella Baylis from Loughborough Lightning.

Baylis, began her career with Mavericks and made her NSL debut in 2021 before going on to sign for Lightning and winning consecutive championships with the Club.

The Hertfordshire-born player has been in the England Academy programme and was vice captain for England at the Netball Europe U17 Championship. She has won multiple gold medals in the England Academy programme at U17 and U21 level.

Baylis was called up to the Future Roses programme for both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons. Internationally, she has also represented her country in ski racing and lacrosse.

Speaking about signing for the Rhinos Baylis said: “A franchise that has multiple different sports and competitive teams is something that really excites me to be a part of. I'm a very competitive person myself so being part of a bigger picture and a whole sports family is a very exciting thing.

“I'm really excited to play with Cassie. She's another young talent in England and just been selected for Futures. The last two seasons she's had have been really good, so that mid-court partnership between me and her is going to be exciting.

“I can’t wait for you guys to see a new look Rhinos team. I think we've got some really exciting players coming into the mix with the existing players that have already been here. You are the eighth player, it really does mean a lot when you guys show up for us.”

NIC Rhinos Netball Head Coach, Lauren Palmer, added: “I’m really excited to have Bella Baylis join the Rhinos. She’s a hardworking and exciting young talent with a real hunger to learn and grow. Bella is incredibly receptive to coaching and brings a brilliant mindset to everything she does.

“She’s an engine in the midcourt — a machine with endless energy — and her experience and fresh ideas will give us a real boost in that area. Bella has huge potential, and I’m looking forward to working with her and seeing where she can take her game in our environment.”

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