Premiers regain star defender

Maddy Stewart (Shawn Smits)

Tara Murray

One of the Bendigo Netball League’s best ever players will be back on court this year for Gisborne.

After a year off travelling, Maddy Stewart returns to the Bulldogs as they look to defend their premiership title.

Stewart, a two-time Betty Thompson medallist, is a big in for the Bulldogs and their defensive end. It will help cover the loss of Zoe Davies, who has moved to England to play in the English Netball Super League.

As well as returning to the A-grade side, Stewart will coach the A-reserve side.

The signing of Stewart adds to the core of last season’s premiership team which has put pen to paper.

Torie Skrijel, Tiana Newman, Charlee Kemp, Emerson Lakey, Kirby Elliott and Claudia Mawson have all re-signed with the club.