Swifts could boast more international talent if they stick together

SWIFTS coach Briony Akle says her side could boast more Diamonds players than any other in the league in the near future if they opt to stay and play together in Super Netball.

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SWIFTS coach Briony Akle says her side could boast more Diamonds players than any other in the league in the near future if they opt to stay and play together in Super Netball.

Akle is in charge of the youngest side in the competition and one being closely monitored by Australian selectors for the future.

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Defender Sarah Klau made the Australian netball squad named on Sunday with Akle confident she has multiple players on her current roster with Diamonds potential.

“If they stay together for a few years I believe we could have almost a team of young Diamonds,” Akle said as player negotiations start for next season.

Briony Akle believes the Swifts’ talent will bloom if they stick together. Pic: AAP

“The Vixens have six (in the Diamonds squad). I think they are very like us.

“I tell the players they are an example of what happens when a team stays together.”

Since last week clubs have had the exclusive right to renegotiate and sign any of their own players, replacement players or training partners on a single or multi-year contract up to the end of 2021.

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On August 27, the Monday after the Super Netball grand final, a free market begins.

Sarah Klau was named in the Diamonds’ squad this week. Pic: AAP

Until then no club can approach or negotiate with a rival teams players.

Final team lists for next season will then be revealed in late September.

Akle believes the majority, if not all, of her roster will stick with the Swifts after the clubs breakout season saw them beat the likes of 2018 title contenders the Giants and the Queensland Firebirds along with defending Super Netball champions, Lightning.

Vixens have six Diamonds, including Liz Watson. Pic: Josie Hayden

And Tegan Phillip. Pic: Getty Images

“We have had heaps of firsts in the way they played and who we have beaten,” she said.

“If I can keep the majority together it will set us up for the next few years. Pretty much I would like them all.”