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England international Geva Mentor has quit Australia's Super Netball to return home in the wake of the withdrawal of her club Collingwood and ongoing contract turmoil.
- Mentor has lived in Australia for 15 years, playing netball for four different top teams
- Her most recent club, Collingwood, has decided to leave Super Netball for the 2024 season
- Player contract talks are on hold until Netball Australia can find a replacement team
The Magpies announced late in the 2023 season they were handing back their licence, with Netball Australia yet to name a replacement.
Without an eighth team in place, none of the other seven Super Netball clubs can start making signings for next season, with some players looking elsewhere to secure their futures.
Mentor, 38, started her 232-game career with the Adelaide Thunderbirds before stints with Melbourne Vixens, Sunshine Coast Lightning and Collingwood, who she joined in 2019.
The star goalkeeper, who will be part of England's campaign at the upcoming Netball World Cup in South Africa, said the situation with the Magpies had "accelerated" her decision to leave and play in her home country.
She's yet to reveal which of the 10 Netball Super League teams she will link with, but has likely taken a pay cut given that competition is not fully professional.
"After 15 years in Australia living and competing I am super grateful for my experiences, the opportunities and the lifelong friendships I've made along the way," the Collingwood captain posted on Instagram.
"Yes the situation in Australia and in particular with Magpies has accelerated this decision, but don't worry I will return back to Aus when I can, although not likely in a netball dress!
"Not only to support all players where I can, but I'll keep challenging and holding the powers that be accountable as I too want a successful SSN (Australian) league to be able to encourage my fellow imports to come and to keep growing the game."
Netball Australia was due to announce the side to replace Collingwood last week, with another Melbourne outfit expected, but talks are continuing to bed down the newcomer.
AAP
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