Key squad changes:
In – Shimona Nelson, Kelsey Browne, Geva Mentor, Nat Medhurst
Out – Erin Bell, Caitlin Thwaites, Sharni Layton
Potential starting 7:
GK – Geva Mentor
GD – April Brandley
WD – Ash Brazill
C – Madi Browne
WA – Kelsey Browne
GA – Nat Medhurst
GS – Shimona Nelson
After a disappointing 2018 season, the Collingwood Magpies came out firing at the Suncorp #TeamGirls Cup, dominating all four games on their way to winning the tournament.
New recruit Shimona Nelson, who joined the Magpies from the Thunderbirds in the off-season, was named the player of the tournament and looked incredibly dangerous in the shooting circle.
If Nelson can bring that hot form into the regular and fellow new recruit Nat Medhurst can settle in to her new surroundings, Magpies fans could be in for an exciting season.
For most teams, losing both Sharni Layton and Erin Bell would be a devastating blow, but the Magpies were able to go out and sign defensive superstar Geva Mentor from the Lightning.
Mentor, who was also named co-captain, will slot straight into the starting line-up alongside April Brandley and Matilda Garrett.
But, despite all the above, it’s the Magpies midcourt that has fans most excited. Kelsey Browne comes across from the Lightning to join her sister, and Magpies co-captain, Madi Browne, Ash Brazill and Kim Ravaillion.
It’s a quick, creative and experienced group who should set the tone for the Magpies all season long.
On paper, Collingwood are stacked and enter the 2019 season as dark horse favourites to win the premiership. They certainly have all the tools needed to win it all, everything just has to come together.
The Magpies kick their 2019 season off at home against the Sunshine Coast Lightning on Saturday April 27 at 5.15PM. This game will be part of a double header, with the Vixens and Firebirds opening the season at 3PM.
For the full 2019 fixture, head here.
