NIC Rhinos complete squad with signing of South African defender Sanmarie Visser

South African rising star Sanmarie Visser has signed for NIC Leeds Rhinos Netball and completes their 2026 squad.

Visser, 21 years old out of Upington, in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, made her SPAR Proteas debut this year when they took on Jamaica in a three-test series and then played in the Nations Cup.

Last season, she was recruited by Adelaide Thunderbirds as a temporary replacement player for Romelda Aiken-George, who was ruled out with a knee injury.

Visser is a product of Varsity Netball and was the 2023 Varsity Netball Player of the Tournament. Netball is not the only sport she excels in, having previously competed in discus throw and 800m in Athletics.

Speaking about signing for the Rhinos, Visser said:

"To sign for the Rhinos is so exciting. The Rhinos are such a passionate club and with an incredible community behind them, and to be given this opportunity to wear this dress is such an honour. I'm really looking forward to contributing and growing with this team. 

"Lauren's vision drew me to the club. When she called me, she had this amazing vision about what you want for the culture of this club and I'm just so excited to be a part of it.

"I'm a defender that likes the contest, the hustle, and I'm really passionate about what I do. I'm really looking forward to bringing that passion with me, to work with everyone and to see what new skills they can bring and what I can learn from them, growing together in that way.

"I can't wait to meet all the fans and see how the community stick together and how we support one another. And I can't wait to play in front of everyone."

NIC Rhinos Netball head coach, Lauren Palmer, added: 

“I’m delighted to welcome Sanmarie to NIC Rhinos. As a South African international with valuable experience from SSN, she brings a fantastic blend of youth, grit, and high-level exposure to our squad.

“She’s a dogged, rangy defender who’s tough to get the ball past — she tracks well, dictates play, and constantly hassles attackers. Her presence will complement our existing defensive unit brilliantly, helping us build a solid and dynamic back line.

“Sanmarie is an exciting talent, and I’m really looking forward to working with her and seeing the impact she’ll make in our environment.”

See her full interview here: