OLYMPIC medallist Gail Emms MBE has been added to the Team Derby line-up ahead of the inaugural National Badminton League campaign.
Emms, who took silver in the mixed doubles alongside Nathan Robertson at the 2004 Games in Athens, has been named in the finalised 11-strong Derby squad.
The 37-year-old joins the likes of Great Britain number one Rajiv Ouseph, and two other players competing at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Andy Ellis and Kate Robertshaw.
Karin Schnaase of Germany - 2014 European bronze medallist - is another new addition, along with Scot Martin Campbell, who will also be in Commonwealth Games action.
Also joining Team Derby are Ollie Baczala, Rhys Walker, Chris Coles and Lydia Powell and Helena Lewczynska.
The University of Derby-based franchise is being coach by Derby's former GB star Donna Kellogg and Julia Mann.
"Julia and I are delighted to be working with a group of very talented players," said Kellogg.
"It's great for Derby that these players will be representing the university.
"Hopefully, this will encourage more youngsters to play the sport across the county and the squad will become role models to aspire to."
Team Derby franchise director Ollie Shearer added: "This is the University of Derby's first ever professional sports team.
"We have sat down as a management group to agree our recruitment strategy and Donna and Julia have worked tirelessly to achieve our aims and we are delighted with the players we have secured. We have high hopes for the forthcoming season."
FULL TEAM DERBY LINE-UP:
Andy Ellis – men's doubles/mixed doubles
Chris Coles – men's doubles/mixed doubles
Gail Emms – ladies doubles/mixed doubles
Helena Lewczynska – ladies' singles/ladies doubles/mixed doubles
Karin Schnaase – ladies' singles
Kate Robertshaw – women's doubles/mixed doubles
Lydia Powell – U21 ladies singles/ladies doubles/mixed doubles
Martin Campbell – men's doubles/mixed doubles
Ollie Baczala – U21 men's player/men's doubles/mixed doubles
Rajiv Ouseph – men's Singles
Rhys Walker – men's Singles
