McKay makes history as Thunderbirds' first mother-daughter signing

Local netball star Jazmin McKay has made history by becoming the Adelaide Thunderbirds' first mother-daughter signing, following in the footsteps of her mother Sarah Sutter, one of Australia's most renowned netball players.

In 1997, Sarah Sutter stepped onto the netball court as an inaugural Thunderbird, helping the team to two premierships in 1998 and 1999. Nearly 30 years later, her daughter Jazmin McKay is making her own history with the club.

"It still doesn't feel real, it's just a dream come true," McKay said.

Sutter is one half of a formidable defensive duo alongside Kathryn Harby-Williams and has gold medal success at the 1995 Netball World Cup and the 1998 Commonwealth Games. She was also a vice captain of the Thunderbirds.

"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. She's just helped me through everything in life and in netball and I'm so grateful to finally follow in her footsteps."

The Adelaide Thunderbirds are coming off the back of a third premiership in just four years, with a team stacked with stars and world-class defensive players, including Jamaican duo Shamera Sterling-Humphrey and Latanya Wilson.

"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."

Sutter had a feeling McKay had the potential to play at the top level, and was there when McKay got the call from the club, and screamed so loudly McKay struggled to hear what was being said.

"Once I see her step on the court, I will shed a tear," she said.

McKay has featured in the state's premier league grand final the last three years, taking home wins each time with Contax Netball Club, and has big dreams about her next steps.

"Since I was born, since I can remember, I've always wanted to play for the Diamonds and the Thunderbirds," she said. "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."