THE Northern Stars have a good mix of experience and youth making them a team to watch come the start of the 2019 season. The Stars failed to feature in the finals after only managing to win four games last season and will be looking to stamp their authority on the competition this season. They were plagued with plenty of injuries in 2018 with the likes of Kayla Cullen going down with a knee injury and midcourter, Fa’amu Ioane rupturing her ACL. But after a disappointing season in 2018 the Stars have recruited some key players to help both in the attacking and defensive end with veteran, Leana De Bruin returning home and young gun, Charlee Hodges snared from the Adelaide Thunderbirds.

There is plenty of excitement around the Northern Stars with the likes of Silver Ferns shooter, Maia Wilson set to take the court once again. Her height and general netball sense will pay dividends in the front end for the Stars and paired with the experience of Ellen Halpenny they could become a formidable duo. Former Adelaide Thunderbirds goal attack, Hodges will also be a player to watch with her impressive timing, smooth movement in the circle and ability to hit the scoreboard big features of her game.

Defensively, Northern Stars will be spurred on by captain De Bruin, and Cullen who are both renowned for their defensive pressure and hunt for the ball. Meanwhile the injury hampered Storm Purvis has made the move from the Mystics to try her hand with the Stars. The defender offers plenty of talent and athleticism which will be a great complement to the likes of Cullen and De Bruin. While the team is filled with plenty of defensive experience, keep an eye out for young gun, Kate Burley who starred in the defensive end for the Stars and could easily dominate once again if given the chance. Burley proved that she can win the ball back for her side and is strong aerially which makes her a real asset for the Stars.

The Stars adopted an unusual approach with assistant coach, Temepara Bailey suiting up for the first time in four years. The midcourter has plenty to offer, credited to her elite fitness, class with ball in hand and impressive netball smarts. The new look team could pose a real threat if it all goes to plan in season 2019.