Manchester Thunder sign four-year deal with Japanese sportswear giant

Netball Superleague team Manchester Thunder have struck a new partnership with Japanese sports brand Mizuno.

The deal will see the Japanese firm become Thunder’s official kit and footwear sponsor for the next four years.

As part of the agreement, Thunder players will wear Mizuno’s latest range of netball footwear along with a dress and elite performance training range designed by the Tokyo-headquartered firm.

Graham Johnson, of Mizuno Netball, said: “We are delighted that we have been chosen by Manchester Thunder, one of the Superleague’s most successful teams, as their kit partner.

“We share Thunder’s passion for performance and team ethic and will join them in engaging their existing fan base as well as promoting netball to a wider audience.”

He added: “Thunder’s ambition and development of talent throughout the age groups provides the perfect platform for us to build an exciting and inspiring relationship during the next four years.”

Manchester Thunder’s managing director, Debbie Hallas, welcomed the deal.

She said: “We look forward to working with Mizuno. It is an exciting time for netball in the Superleague and we are pleased to have a brand on board that shares our ambitions.

“We have always had an ethos of promoting youth and Mizuno is committed to investing in the future of the franchise.”