Fijian Pearls goal shooting ace Maria Lutua will be joining Sunshine Coast Lighting in Australia as they prepare for this year’s Suncorp Super Netball League.

The Nakama native from Macuata told SUNsports that she is looking forward to join the newly-formed franchise club.

“I’m very excited because this is something different and it’s another step forward to my dream of becoming a successful netball player,” Lutua said.

“I’m just amazed on how things are working out for me and I’m thankful to God for this opportunity.”

The veteran goal shooter said she would always be available to play for her country if needed.

“I will always be available for national duties if my service is required but I will always have to work according to what the club has prepared and I’m committed to play.

“For me definitely, I would keep striving and work hard this year, to learn more and gain experience from this professional players who I’ll be playing with.

“Learn from their attitude, their own personal experience because it’s total different from Fiji. To be the first Fijian to be part of this is definitely a blessing and a great opportunity for me and I am really looking forward to this season.’

The Sunshine Coast Lighting Facebook page welcomed Lutua’s inclusion. “Signed, sealed & delivered. Please welcome Maria Lutua to the Club as the fourth and final training partner alongside Dominique, Ashlen and Ash. Maria has represented the Fiji Pearls and is a great addition to the Lightning family.”

Sunshine Coast Lightning was established in 2016. It is one of three foundation clubs established ahead of the brand new Suncorp Super Netball competition which begins in 2017.

The other two foundation clubs are Collingwood Magpies and GWS Giants (Greater Western Sydney). They will join five existing clubs; Queensland Firebirds, New South Wales Swifts, Melbourne Vixens, Adelaide Thunderbirds and West Coast Fever.

Sunshine Coast Lightning is a joint partnership between NRL Club, Melbourne Storm and the University of the Sunshine Coast.

They are the two owners. Sunshine Coast Council is a major contributor as well.

It is the only club in this year’s professional competition based in regional Australia.

The first round of the Super Netball starts on Saturday, February 18, in a Queensland blockbuster against the Firebirds at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

The club have New Zealand international netball player.

Primarily a midcourt player and also was the vice-captain for the New Zealand netball team and Caitlin Bassett who plays goal shooter for the Australian Netball Diamonds.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

Feedback:  paulini.ratulailai@fijisun.com.fj