Today (05/01/21), we celebrate the birthday of Serena Guthrie as the experienced Vitality Rose defender turns 31!
The Vitality Roses co-captain enjoyed a prosperous 2020 despite her break away from domestic netball and made her highly-anticipated return in a red dress.
Serena took a step back from the netball court following the conclusion of the 2019 Vitality Netball World Cup in Liverpool.
Her absence was definitely felt both in England and in the Suncorp Super Netball. This, however, made it all the sweeter when she returned for the Cadbury Netball Series in October 2020.
It was a special series for Serena, who captained her country against the New Zealand Silver Ferns, because of her landmark 100th appearance.
The mid-courter earned her century over the course of 12 years having made her Vitality Roses debut against Malawi in 2008 aged just 18.
Serena received a warm reception in Hamilton from both sets of players and fans, acknowledging her contribution to netball the world over.
Nothing but ❤ for this lot. This group never ceases to amaze me! my family in red 🌹❤. Results didn't go our But we will succeed when the time comes. Of that I have no doubt. Onwards and upwards. #roadto2022 pic.twitter.com/zYsH7aVmEp
— Serena Guthrie (@serenabob) November 1, 2020
The 31-year-old ended her year with the announcement that she would be returning to the Vitality Netball Superleague (VNSL) with Team Bath Netball. Serena remained with the side during her break, acting as an ambassador for the Blue and Gold.
This means that the 2018 Commonwealth Games champion will appear on domestic, UK netball courts for the first time since 2019.
“I’m Team Bath through and through, this is where I started my journey when I was 13 and first stepped through the double doors of the Sports Training Village,” she told Team Bath Netball.
“I am passionate about wanting to contribute and give back as Team Bath has given me a lot. I’m just hoping I can add as much value to Team Bath as Team Bath did to me back at the beginning.
“You come to a point in your career where it’s not just about you any more, it’s about the journey you have been on and the people you have seen and have influenced you. That was quite an inspirational factor in wanting to come back here and be a part of it.”
We can’t wait to see Serena back on court in the VNSL and for the Vitality Roses in the coming months!
Why not wish Serena a happy birthday on her Twitter or Instagram profiles?
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