NETBALL Manchester Live returns to the Manchester Arena in 2018, for it’s third annual event. The event will see Manchester’s own, Manchester Thunder take on the current reigning champions, Wasps Netball in a Superleague clash.

The arena that holds 21,000 people will play host to the netball teams on the 2nd of June. The match promises to be an important clash, with the game happening five games before the seasons end.

Head of Sport at BBC Manchester Radio, Sarah Collins spoke on the upcoming Manchester Live,

“The Manchester Live event is fantastic as it means that Manchester is an amazing sporting city and it embraces all sports and it will hopefully help Manchester Thunder raise their profile which all netball clubs need doing.”

Manchester Thunder reached the playoffs lasts season and were led by Karen Greig, speaking on Manchester’s chances, Collins said,

“Last season people didn’t give director of netball, Karen Greig a chance but she smashed it and led them to the playoffs. This season she can do it again, the squad is a strong squad, Karen is capable of getting to the finals again, she’s got the experience of last year, I think it will be a harder season than last year, but I think they will be alright.”

“Wasps Netball are the defending Superleague champions, and will play the Wasps a year on since the Manchester attacks at the Arena, Manchester Thunder are planning to have 22 bees printed on specially-designed dresses, to remember those who lost their lives in the Arena attack in May.”

Highlights from 2016’s event

Karen Greig, Manchester Thunder’s Director of Netball, spoke on the opportunity that playing at the Arena represents,

“Manchester Arena is one of the biggest arena’s in the North West and is a great opportunity to get our fans in watching on the big stage.”

“We’ve got a massive fanbase already and I’m sure they’ll come and make a day of it. If we can keep pushing publicity and reaching out to people who’ve never been to netball before and grow our fanbase and become more popular.”

Manchester are Thunder planning to have 22 bees (the symbol of Manchester) printed on specially-designed dresses, to remember those who lost their lives in the Arena attack in May.

Greig spoke on the game taking place a year after the attacks,

“Ultimately it’s going to be an emotional event, it’s only right to pay our respects and put on a great night.”

Tickets for the game on Saturday the 2nd of June are on sale now and are available here

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