London Mavericks confirm departing players

After announcing the new-look squad for the Netball Super League season, London Mavericks have confirmed the departure of nine players.  

Peace Akinyemi, Britney Clarke, Sophie Egbaran, Jodie Gibson, Georgia Lees, Indya Masser, Ine-Mari Venter, Aliyah Zaranyika, and Anna Fairclough, have all played an integral part in the growth of the Mavericks.   

Jodie Gibson has been a force both on the domestic and international stage since making her debut for the Vitality Roses in 2013, winning gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Jodie joined Mavericks ahead of the 2020 season, establishing herself as one of the best defenders in the league and captaining the Mavericks in her final season with the club.   

NSL veteran Georgia Lees, also won’t be returning to London Mavericks, having announced her decision to retire last season. Georgia spent multiple seasons with the Mavericks, amassing 74 appearances with the club and being named vice-captain in her final campaign. 

Aliyah Zaranyika joined Mavericks at the age of 15 and has been the finest example of an athlete; exploding through every age group and leaving a lasting imprint on the club and her fellow players. Aliyah leaves after 54 appearances in the NSL for the Mavericks, consistently anchoring the defence each time she took the court . We’d like to thank Aliyah for her dedication and wish her every success as she continues her journey. A fellow standout and fan favourite, Britney Clarke leaves, having graduated from the Mavericks pathway. Clarke made an invaluable contribution both on and off the court, consistently posing a goal-scoring threat every time she stepped into the arena.  

South African international Ine-Marí Venter bids farewell to the London Mavericks, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that will be remembered for years to come. Over her incredible four-year tenure, Ine-Marí delivered nearly 2,000 goals, an extraordinary achievement that solidifies her place in Mavericks history. We thank Ine-Marí for her dedication and wish her every success as she continues her journey.   

We also want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to five more incredible players who made an unforgettable impact during their time with the London Mavericks: Peace Akinyemi, Sophie Egbaran, Indya Masser, and Anna Fairclough. Their dedication, passion, and resilience on and off the court have left an indelible mark, and we are immensely thankful for everything they’ve contributed to the club.

London Mavericks Head Coach Camilla Buchanan paid tribute to the departing players:

“When you become a Maverick, it is largely down to an element of uniqueness that you offer to this beautiful game and club. Each and every one of these players will be appreciated for the individual flavour that they added here.  

We will hold stories and memories of each of the players close but also wish them the best of luck in both retirement and with their respective new clubs. Once a Maverick, always a Maverick.” 

Peace Akinyemi, Britney Clarke, Sophie Egbaran, Anna Fairclough, Jodie Gibson, Georgia Lees, Indya Masser, Ine-Mari Venter, and Aliyah Zaranyika—thank you for being part of this journey with us. Wherever the next chapter takes you, you’ll always be a part of the Mavericks family.