Metro Jets signs youngest squad player Jemma Kelly for Premier League netball season 2023

A Netball SA Premier League club has signed its youngest squad member ahead of 2023 as it aims to revitalise its troops after missing the finals last season.

One of the youngest players in the Netball SA Premier League has committed to her club ahead of the 2023 season.

Jemma Kelly – who turned 16 in April – has solidified her spot as Metro Jets’ youngest squad member after signalling her intention to remain at the club through season 2023.

An emerging talent in SA, Kelly can play in key positions at both ends of the court, was named in the Australia U15s and the 2022 U17 Development Squad and recently the 2023 state U17s.

“I spoke to a couple of other clubs during the sign on period and it was a very hard decision for me at such a young age,” Kelly said.

“I was really thankful for the opportunity to play with the Jets last season in my Premier League Reserves debut year and I’m excited to see what we can achieve in 2023.”

Jemma Kelly had an exceptional season for SA and Metro Jets in 2022 and has committed to her club for 2023. Picture: St Mark's College

Kelly had a breakout year in 2022, playing for the SA School Girls U15s on top of being named in the All Australian squad and also making her Premier League first team debut towards the end of the season.

She said the experience would help her reach a new level during the coming campaign.

“I was honoured to represent the SA School Girls team and be named in the All Australian U15s and being part of Netball SA’s U17 Development Squad was also a great experience for me and my game.

“I was pleased with my consistent performances last season and I gained feedback from a variety of coaches, which will help my netball going forward.”

Metro Jets champion Alice Gerlach (middle, right) has also re-signed with the club. Picture: Roy VanDerVegt

Along with Kelly’s re-signing, veteran midcourter Alice Gerlach – who has racked up more than 250 Premier League appearances – has also committed to the Jets.

Kelly said she was eager to continue to connect with players like Gerlach on the court.

“One of my main aims is to make playing connections with new and existing teammates,” she said.

“I can bring versatility on the court and I’m excited to be announced alongside Alice – she is a strong leader for our club and sets the standard on and off the court.”

The signing of the pair marks a major coup for the club, which finished outside of the finals picture last season.

Kelly said she was confident of improvement throughout the squad.

“My goal is to continue to challenge for my place in the Premier League side and help the club achieve the aim of finishing top four and in the finals.”