Introduction
After an incredible 13-year stint in Australia, Geva Mentor, the legendary England netball player, is making her highly anticipated return to the Netball Super League. Mentor’s decision to come back to her roots has sparked excitement among netball enthusiasts, who are eager to witness her exceptional skills back on English soil. In this article, we delve into Mentor’s journey, her motivations behind the move, and the impact she hopes to make on her new team, the Leeds Rhinos.
A Glittering Career in Australia
Mentor’s return to the Netball Super League marks the end of an era in Australian netball. Having played for the Melbourne Vixens, Sunshine Coast Lightning, and Collingwood Magpies over the last 13 seasons, Mentor has achieved remarkable success down under. Her contributions to the sport have been nothing short of extraordinary, and she has solidified her status as one of the most respected and accomplished netball players in the world.
Retirement from International Duty
After retiring from international netball, Mentor found herself reflecting on her future in the sport. The pay dispute in Australia and her desire to reconnect with her netball beginnings led her to explore the possibility of returning to the Super League. Mentor’s decision to leave international netball behind was a significant move, allowing her to focus on her next chapter and contribute to the growth of the sport in England.
The Perfect Fit: Leeds Rhinos
Image: Geva Mentor in action for Leeds Rhinos
When considering her options for the Netball Super League, Mentor sought a team where she could truly make a difference. It was during discussions with Leeds Rhinos coach Liana Leota that Mentor’s path became clear. The vision and ambition of the Leeds Rhinos, combined with the opportunity to bring stability to the team, resonated with Mentor. The decision to join the Rhinos was an easy one, and she is eager to contribute her wealth of experience to the team’s success.
Embracing Nostalgia and New Beginnings
For Mentor, the return to the Netball Super League is a nostalgic experience. Playing on English soil and reconnecting with familiar faces and new talent fills her with excitement. Leeds, with its vibrant atmosphere, offers an ideal backdrop for Mentor’s comeback. She looks forward to embracing the unknown and leading the team with her calm and level-headed approach.
Empowering and Inspiring
Mentor’s stature in the netball world brings a depth of wisdom and experience that few can match. As she joins the Leeds Rhinos, she hopes to empower and inspire her teammates, while also building a strong foundation for the club. Mentor understands the importance of community and aims to reach every part of Leeds, ensuring the sport is accessible to all. The wide geographic area covered by the Leeds Rhinos provides an opportunity to touch many lives and make a lasting impact.
The Future Beyond Netball
Image: Geva Mentor contemplating her future
With a career spanning several decades, Mentor is often asked about her plans for the future. As she transitions away from the domestic netball stage, she envisions contributing to the growth of professional netball in England. Additionally, Mentor contemplates starting a family, a prospect that excites her. While she remains open to various possibilities, Mentor’s dedication to the sport and her desire to give back to netball in the coming years is unwavering.
Catch the Action on Sky Sports
The return of Geva Mentor to the Netball Super League is a momentous occasion for netball enthusiasts. Sky Sports will provide live coverage throughout the season, allowing fans to witness Mentor’s exceptional skills and leadership firsthand. The opening match between the Seven Stars and Leeds Rhinos Netball promises to be a thrilling start to the season, broadcasting on Sky Sports Arena and the Sky Sports YouTube channel.
