The Melbourne Mavericks are excited to welcome Kristiana Manu’a to netball’s newest team, as the New Zealand-born defender signs on as a permanent replacement player for the injured Lauren Moore.
Manu'a was an inaugural member of the GIANTS in Suncorp Super Netball, where she served as a Vice Captain during her five-year, 75-game tenure with the team. She departed the GIANTS at the end of the 2021 season to join the Wellington-based Central Pulse in New Zealand's ANZ Premiership, helping lead the team to the league title in 2022.
Manu'a, a strong and tenacious defender, brings a fierce and uncompromising style of play to the Mavericks' defensive end. Her versatility and ability to excel in both the goal defence and goalkeeper positions will add depth and flexibility to the team's defensive end.
"It is really exciting to welcome Kristiana to the Mavericks.” said Mavericks Head Coach Tracey Neville. “Her wealth of experience at both the international level and in Suncorp Super Netball is invaluable, especially as we navigate the challenges posed by two key injuries. Kristiana's signing couldn't have come at a better time for us.”
"In just two weeks of training with us, Kristiana has already made a significant impact. Her leadership, communication, and energy have already made an impact on the defensive end. We are excited to see her continue to grow with the team and make her mark on the court this season".
"I am thrilled and grateful to join the Melbourne Mavericks for the rest of the 2024 season.” said Kristiana Manu’a. “After returning from New Zealand, I didn't expect to play in the SSN again, so I'm thankful to the Mavericks for making it possible.
“The team environment has been fantastic, and I believe this squad has immense potential. It's a privilege to reunite with former teammates and learn from new faces.
“While the circumstances surrounding my signing are bittersweet with Lauren's injury, I hope to honour her by making the most of this opportunity.”
Mavericks fans will get their first glimpse of Manu'a in action this weekend, as she has been named in the squad for the team's upcoming away game against the Sunshine Coast Lightning.
__ROUND 4 TEAM:__
- Eleanor Cardwell (VC)
- Tayla Fraser
- Kim Jenner
- Shimona Jok
- Molly Jovic
- Olivia Lewis
- Kristiana Manu’a
- Maisie Nankivell
- Amy Parmenter (C)
- Gabby Sinclair
__Melbourne Mavericks vs. Sunshine Coast Lightning__
- 5:00pm AEST, Saturday, 4 May 2024
- UniSC Arena, Sippy Downs, Queensland
- Live on Kayo Freebies and Foxtel
