Suzy Drane, who has featured as a Celtic Dragons player since the franchise’s birth back in 2005, has announced that she will be stepping away from Superleague netball.
The former captain has played across the midcourt for the franchise for 14 years – serving as captain for 8 – and has achieved huge success both on and off the court throughout her career with the franchise. She was part of the 2013 Grand Finalist squad and was instrumental in Celtic Dragons’ uplifting season earlier this year where the franchise qualified for Fast5 All-Stars for the first time in its history.
Announcing her retirement, Drane said: “This hasn’t been an easy decision for me, however, I have other aspirations and desires in my life that I would like to explore and now feels like the right time to pursue these.
“I have so many amazing memories from the past 14 years and would not be the person or netball player I am today without the experiences I have had at Celtic Dragons.”
Drane thanked her family and friends for the support that she had received from them over the years as well as the many coaches and management teams she had been involved with over her time at the franchise.
She also left the door open for future involvement in the franchise, saying: “I hope at some point in the future I can be involved in other capacities, but for now I wish the franchise and all those involved the best of luck for the seasons ahead.”
Drane will continue to play netball, becoming involved in the English Premier League with Bath Toucans and she will continue to aspire to compete in international netball.
Sarah Jones, Welsh Netball CEO reflected on Drane’s contributions to franchise netball in Wales over the last 14 years.
She said: “Whilst I am sad that Suzy will no longer be playing for Celtic Dragons, I know that this has been a very difficult decision for her. The impact she has had on the game in Wales, and beyond, through our franchise cannot be measured. She epitomises the never-say-die spirit of the ‘Green Army’ and I thank her for all she has done for Celtic Dragons. I wish her all the very best in her next steps.”
Tania Hoffman, Celtic Dragons head coach said: “Suzy has been an inspiration for many players, both young and experienced and has been very welcoming to myself and the new players who arrived last season. I wish you well in your new ventures!”