Langman returns to Lightning
Sunshine Coast Lightning player #3 Laura Langman is returning to the fold in a mentoring role for season 2027.
The former Lightning and Silver Ferns captain will re-join the fold on the Sunshine Coast as a mentor working closely with the midcourt, leadership group and coaching staff, Langman will join the club on a part-time basis from the commencement of pre-season.
In a move designed to provide additional support to head coach Belinda Reynolds and the high-performance team, Langman said she was excited to be back a part of the Lightning set up.
“This is a really exciting role and I’m looking forward to being back around the club again,” she said.
“Being in an elite sporting environment is the ultimate role.
“I’m keen to learn from the best about what it takes to be a modern-day athlete and sprinkle some old school in there from time to time. Grateful.”
A storied playing career, the 165-cap New Zealand international is a two-time Commonwealth games champion in 2006 and 2010, along with captaining the side during their triumphant 2019 World Cup win.
Joining Lightning in 2017 after a one-year stint with the NSW Swifts where she became the first New Zealand player to play in the Australian competition.
Following a year off in 2018, Langman rejoined the Lightning where she captained the side for two seasons before announcing her retirement.
Lightning Owner and Chief Executive, Justin Pascoe said the Langman’s appointment would benefit the club both on and off the court.
“We as an organisation are really excited by having Laura back around the club,” he said.
“As a player, Laura was renowned for her high work rate and energy levels and off the court, she was the ultimate professional, qualities we know she’ll bring to this role.
“Working closely with the leaders of this group, we hope that Laura will be able to provide the guidance and wisdom to help elevate our club to where we know we can be.”
In her mentoring role, Langman will work closely with head coach Reynolds and newly appointed assistant, Madi Browne on a consultancy basis both during the pre-season and the 2027 Super Netball season.