Sophie Garbin, who joined the Swifts in 2018, informed her club today that she will be taking-up a contract elsewhere for next season’s Suncorp Super Netball competition.
Garbin played 49 games for the Swifts, after making her debut in 2018, and was a key member of the Swifts’ Premiership successes in 2019 and 2021.
The 24-year-old stated that she would forever cherish the years with her now former team.
“It has been an honour to play for a club as prestigious and successful as the Swifts and I will be forever grateful for the experiences and opportunities I’ve had since joining four years ago,” Garbin said.
“I have made many friends for life and a part of me will always belong to this club.
“A lot of players don’t get the chance to win a Premiership and I’ve been lucky enough to win two in my time at the Swifts. That wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my Swifts teammates, coaches, club staff and members and fans; all of whom I will be eternally thankful for.
“The decision to leave has been one of the hardest I’ve ever had to make but I would like to thank everyone at the club, its supporters and Netball NSW for an amazing four years.”
Head coach of the Swifts — Briony Akle, wished Garbin all the best for the next chapter in her playing career.
“Sophie has been a pleasure to work with and while we are sad to see her go, we understand her decision,” Akle said.
“The nature of professional sport means that players always come and go, but Sophie leaves us with two titles and will always be known as a double-Premiership champion of the Swifts.
“This season was perhaps the hardest we’ve ever had in National League history but Sophie, as ever, was a consummate professional throughout and a wonderful person to have in the Swifts environment.
“On behalf of the club I would like to wish her all the best for what’s next and look forward to a great match-up next season.”
Garbin was named in the 2021/22 Origin Australian Diamonds squad after scoring 152 goals on 88% shooting accuracy this season.
It is yet to be announced which club Garbin will be moving to for season 2022.
