Loughborough Lightning stalwart Lauren Nicholls has put pen to paper and will return for her sixth season as part of the Loughborough University side.
Head Coach Karen Atkinson has placed an emphasis on consistency in her squad ahead of the 2017 Vitality Netball Superleague season, with Nicholls joining Joseph, Panagarry, Proscovia, Airey and Coleman who all return to the Lightning fold.
A Loughborough alumna, Nicholls is a firm fans favourite, having played for Lightning as Lauren Steadman before her marriage last year. Having completed her PGCE at Loughborough University, the WD will balance her career as a teacher with professional netball, a juggling act she has been used to over the last few seasons.
Nicholls commented: “I’m really excited about playing for Lightning again this year! This is my sixth season here and can’t wait to get back on court with the girls. It’s great to be back and to pick up where we left off and challenge each other to have even more success with each year.
“Lightning is home for me and I’m looking forward to seeing our supporters and the wider lightning family.”
Lightning Head Coach Karen Atkinson added: “Lauren is the longest standing member of the Lightning squad and it is fantastic that she is back for her sixth season. She is East Midlands and Lightning through and through and brings a great deal of loyalty and passion to the franchise.
“I have been impressed with her work ethic and commitment over the summer as she has been making significant gains in the physical facets of her game that will help her to progress further this season. Lauren completes what is an exciting mid-court line up for Lightning, adding even more strength in depth, as well as experience to the squad.”
Report courtesy of Loughborough University
