Hamer and Fitzpatrick both competed at last summer’s Tokyo Paralympic Games and are holders of World and European silver medals following an impressive international career to date.
The pair's arrival in Loughborough completes Lightning Head Coach George Bates’ squad for the inaugural Women’s Premier League which begins in January 2022.
Lightning’s squad now includes:
Jude Hamer
Classification: 4.0
Jersey: 9
Siobhan Fitzpatrick
Classification: 3.0
Jersey: 13
Laurie Williams
Classification: 2.5
Jersey: 8
Lynsey Speirs
Classification: 1.0
Jersey: 18
Robyn Love
Classification: 3.5
Jersey: 15
Elly Gilvarry
Classification: 2.4
Jersey: 30
Holly Lounds
Classification: 3.5
Jersey: 16
Jess Whyte
Classification: 1.0
Jersey: 17
Lucy Robinson
Classification: 4.5
Jersey: 12
Niamh Horan
Classification: 3.0
Jersey: 31
Following the double signing, George Bates, Head Coach, said:
“Jude is another decorated international player to add to our ranks and her shooting ability and defensive presence is an asset in any team. As a fellow high pointer, I’m looking forward to working with her week in week out.
“Shiv is another brilliant team player and the kind every squad needs. Her positive attitude is contagious and her ability on the weak side of the floor will prove to be a key asset this year.”
Hamer, who is also a former Chemistry student at the University, said:
“I’m so excited to join the Lightning family and add to the winning culture here.”
Fitzpatrick added:
“It’s an absolute honour to be part of the first Women’s Premier League in an elite environment alongside such talented women. I am so excited to be wearing the purple and pink of Loughborough.”
The first season of Wheelchair Basketball’s Women’s Premier League will take place from January 2022 - May 2022.
To find out more, visit www.britishwheelchairbasketball.co.uk/womens-premier-league.