Casey Kopua, Grace Rasmussen, Sam Sinclair, Kelly Jury and Monica Falkner have signed on with the Cold Power Magic for the 2017 ANZ Netball Elite League.
These are the first signings announced by the Magic, who will be led by newly-appointed coach and former Silver Ferns great, Margaret Forsyth.
Forsyth
said she was delighted with the first group of signings.
"This is wonderful news for the Cold Power Magic. These players have been part of the Magic family for a number of years and have developed in our environment under former coach Julie Fitzgerald," Forsyth said.
"They will form the back bone of a strong team - something that the club has become renowned for and that we are determined to continue."
The signatures of Silver Ferns Kopua and Rasmussen are seen as a coup for the club, with Kopua to make her return following the birth of her first child.
"It is great to have Casey and Grace back with the Magic as both are very influential players and people within our environment," Forsyth said.
"Casey is one of world netball's most experienced internationals and Grace is one of New Zealand's more influential players and they will be the soul of the team.
"They are both excellent with the younger players and great role models for netballers in our region."
Forsyth was also excited about the return of former John Paul College student Sinclair and Jury, both who have Hillary Scholarships and are studying at Waikato University.
"Sam and Kelly are young players who show so much potential, as shown by their inclusion in the NZA team and we are delighted that they are keen to continue their careers with the Magic."
Shooter Monica Falkner was a member of the Waikato Bay of Plenty Beko Netball League team and was included in the recent Silver Fern trials and ultimately selected in the NZA team.
Born in Opotiki and schooled in Whakatane (Trident High School), Falkner has recently returned from Canberra where she played for the NZ U21 team at the 20/U International Tournament. She is also studying at Waikato University.
"I am looking forward to working with Monica as she has real potential. It is the role of the Magic to nurture and develop that talent in a way that is best for Monica."
