Adelaide Thunderbirds star defender Shamera Sterling-Humphrey will sit out the remainder of the national netball season as she prepares to welcome her first child.
The club confirmed her pregnancy in a statement released on Friday and announced who would fill her spot during her absence. South African player Sanmarie Visser, who initially joined the Thunderbirds during the pre-season as a temporary replacement for shooter Romelda Aiken-George, will now join the main squad. She will travel with the team to Sydney for Saturday’s match against the Giants.
Sterling-Humphrey expressed her joy at entering motherhood, saying, “I’m so excited to be having a little one and to be back with my husband [Andrew] for this special time — I know I’ll be a great mum. I’ll miss being on court this season, but I’ll be cheering the team on as I get ready for our new family member.”
The Jamaican defender, who joined the Thunderbirds from Loughborough Lightning in the UK Super League in 2018, made a powerful debut the following April, recording 10 gains, five intercepts, 12 deflections, and three rebounds. Since then, she has played a pivotal role in the team’s back-to-back premierships, known for her game-changing intercepts and impressive athleticism.
Head coach Tania Obst said the entire team was excited for Sterling-Humphrey and also for Visser, who now steps into a key role. “They’re thrilled for Shamera and Andrew, and also eager to see what Visser can bring. She’s shown great versatility, and we’re excited for her to seize this opportunity,” Obst said.
Thunderbirds general manager of high performance Jace Bode also shared the club’s happiness. “We’re overjoyed for Shamera and Andrew as they grow their family,” he said.
Sterling-Humphrey is expected to return to the squad for the 2026 season.
