The Lightning’s vice-captain announced she would be re-committing to the club for a fifth season last night at the club’s awards night, where Pretorius was also named Players’ Player of the Year for the third consecutive season.
“Karla is arguably the best defender in the world but moreover, she is the type of person that is invaluable to have within a team,” Byrne said.
“Being recognised with this award for a third year speaks volumes about Karla as an elite athlete and a person, she works incredibly hard to get the best out of herself but is incredibly gracious and will always put the team first.”
“We are a better team when Karla is out on court and I am on the edge of my seat to see what she can produce in 2021 and beyond.”
A number of other awards were presented throughout the evening:
- Club Person of the Year – Dr Matthew Dwyer
- Community Champion – Laura Scherian
- Downer Team Spirit Award – Maddy McAuliffe
- Hostplus Sustained Performer of the Year – Cara Koenen
- Players’ Player of the Year – Karla Pretorius
- Player of the Year – Karla Pretorius
In signing on, Pretorius is the third player to be confirmed as part of Lightning’s 2021 team, with fellow African nationals Phumza Maweni and Peace Proscovia also re-committing to the club ahead of next season.
The club also announced yesterday that goal keeper Anni Lee-Jones will part way with the Lightning after two seasons.
