We have assembled a strong squad this season, including five returning players, so the depth of the squad will be the main advantage against other Super League Basketball Women teams from what I have seen so far.

There doesn’t seem to be the same strength in squad in the Oaklands Wolves or Caledonia Gladiators in comparison to last year; however, the Essex Rebels are looking stronger, having already beaten Oaklands in the Betty Codona Trophy.

Regardless, I expect it will be the same clubs competing for the top 4-5 positions in the table, and as the season progresses, some teams will become more effective in playing together (the Newcastle Eagles being one of these teams!), and some match-ups will no doubt produce one or two upsets along the way.

I hope that we can stay healthy and focused, with particular success in the Betty Codona Trophy, as this is one that has alluded us since my mother (Trophy namesake) died in 2022.  I am sure both Vanessa [Ellis] and Georgia [Gayle] are also keen to ensure that this special Trophy and all it means to us comes back to Sheffield this year!

I wish success for the league and really hope that, on the whole match ups are competitive and well promoted by the home club.  For the Hatters, it’s not just about running an SLB team; it’s about the club; we all need to develop our fanbase and boost interest in the women’s and girls’ game if it is to grow stronger and survive.