Surrey Storm will once again make the journey to the London Copper Box Arena on Sunday for the 2018 British Fast5 All-Stars Championship.
The knockout tournament features the top eight placed teams from the 2018 Vitality Netball League, Storm making the cut having secured an 8th place finish last season.
Storm’s new look squad will be looking to show their intent for the season with a strong performance at the tournament.
“There’s a great energy around the team, especially with the arrival of Sharni Layton.” Said Director of Netball, Mikki Austin
“We’re coming off the back of a 6-week training block, and everyone has been working really hard and cementing their bonds together. Energy is high and everyone is ready to compete on Saturday.”
Austin went on to praise Layton and the impact the two time World Cup winner has had on the squad.
“Take away the fact that she is one of the most formidable netball players the world has ever seen, she is an incredible person.
“She is a great athlete to have in and around your training environment, she gives advice, she takes on board instructions, she is always willing to lend a hand.
“She’s a massive confidence booster for the squad, and I know she is just as excited to be competing in Storm colours just as much as we are to be walking out on court alongside her.”
Having struggled at last year’s competition, Austin is keen to succeed this time around in her new Head Coach role.
“I think Fast5s last year was a big learning curve for everyone.” Reflected Austin.
“People being involved last year is definitely going to help this year. Hopefully we can take some of the lessons from last year and use them to our advantage this time around.”
If you want to watch Storm in action, you can still purchase tickets for the event here. Alternatively, all games will be shown live on Sky Sports mix from 1pm.