Mother-daughter netball legacy continues as Jazmin McKay joins Adelaide Thunderbirds

In 1997, Sarah Sutter stepped onto the netball court as an inaugural Thunderbird.

Nearly 30 years later, her daughter Jazmin McKay is making her own history as the club's first mother-daughter signing.

Sutter is one of Australia's better known netball names, especially as one half of a formidable defensive duo alongside Kathryn Harby-Williams.

As one of the first Thunderbirds, Sutter helped the team to two premierships in 1998 and 1999.

On the international stage, she had gold medal success at the 1995 Netball World Cup and the 1998 Commonwealth Games.

"I've seen how hard Jazz has worked on and off the court, and to be the first mother daughter, I couldn't be any prouder," Sutter said.

McKay, who was a training partner with the Thunderbirds in 2026, said it was only in recent years she realised how successful her mum had been.

"Growing up I'd always talk about, 'My mum played for the Diamonds, my mum played for the Thunderbirds', but I didn't realise how much hard work it took to actually get there," she said.

"It's really special to do that alongside her, cause she's the one who's taught me how to throw catch, all the tips and tricks, so it's really special.

Joining a powerhouse

The Adelaide Thunderbirds are coming off the back of a third premiership in just four years.

It is a team stacked with stars and its defensive players are world class, with Jamaican duo Shamera Sterling-Humphrey and Latanya Wilson holding down the circle.

"It's such an amazing team, they've all been my idols at some point during my life," McKay said.

"Being able to actually step on court alongside them is really special and a dream come true, and I can't wait to line up, whether that's on the bench or in that team."

Watching McKay move through her junior years, Sutter had a feeling she had the potential to play at the top level.

"I know how hard it is to get into the Adelaide Thunderbirds because we've got such an amazing line up of athletes," she said.

Sutter was there when McKay got the call from the club, and screamed so loudly McKay struggled to hear what was being said, but Sutter said it was still surreal for her seeing her daughter make history.

Big dreams

Having learnt from one of the best, McKay is showing promise in her defensive prowess and has some silverware in her own cupboard.

She has featured in the state's premier league grand final the last three years, taking home wins each time with Contax Netball Club.

The 18-year-old has big dreams about the next steps.

"I've ticked one off, and I want to continue growing my netball, and playing for the Thunderbirds and eventually hopefully reach that international stage."