Wimborne's Lily-May Catling named Team Bath Super League captain

Catling started her career at Bournemouth Junior Netball Club, before joining Bath as a teenager.

The versatile defender then moved to Australia, before returning to the senior Super League set-up ahead of the 2022 season.

The decision followed an innovative selection process that involved written applications, interviews and a vote from the Super League squad.

"To be voted in as captain by my team-mates is pretty special,” said Catling.

“This group of women has such a blend of experience and youthful vitality, and for them to look at me and think I can represent them well is a huge privilege and honour.

"I have never been through a process like this before but it was a really good exercise, a chance to think about my leadership approach and reflect on what I can bring to the squad.

"My love for Team Bath, this group and the programme we are putting together is probably my biggest strength.

"I live and breathe the culture we are building, so I hope I can lead by example.”

Head coach Asha Francis invited everyone in the squad to put themselves forward for the captaincy and Catling was encouraged to apply by 2022 skipper Imogen Allison, who has decided to take a step back this year due to her international commitments with England.

“Imo has been incredibly supportive throughout,” said Catling.

“She is one of the many natural leaders in this squad whose experience I can call on and they will make my job an easy one.”

Francis, a former Team Bath captain herself, added: “Lily-May has some excellent qualities and is enthusiastically supportive of everything we are trying to do.

"She’s approachable, caring and close to everyone in the group, she’s here to nurture and push everyone forward.”

Team Bath get their Super League campaign underway against Loughborough Lightning at Nottingham's Motorpoint Arena on Saturday, February 11.

Many games from the tournament are screened live on Sky Sports.