Adelaide Thunderbirds fans have had mixed reactions to the signing of Silver Ferns sharp shooter Maria Folau.
The 31-year-old wife of Wallabies star Israel Folau has inked a deal with the Super Netball side for the 2019 season.
- More than just a name: Maria still adjusting to life as a Folau
- Maria Folau inks deal with Adelaide Thunderbirds
The South Australia side have won only one match in two seasons, losing 27 matches in the process.
Despite the need for some talented reinforcements, Folau's support for her husband's stance on homosexuality has left many fans outraged over her acquisition.
"It would be really great if you could be transparent about the steps you've taken to ensure your LGBTIQ players and fans feel both safe and comfortable with this decision," one fan wrote on the franchises Twitter page.
Another felt Folau's talent alone isn't enough to justify her signing.
"This shows any fans, whether they are LGBTQI or not, that the @AdelaideTBirds are okay with her stance and are willing to overlook it to have a better season than 2018."
It wasn't all doom and gloom for Folau, however, with a few fans coming to her defence.
"Finally! I feel like we've been waiting forever to find out where @MariaFolau is going what a signing. Congrats to Maria and @AdelaideTBirds this team will be a force to be reckoned with!"
Folau (nee Tutaia) came to the defence of her husband in April, after the Australian international commented on social media that all gay people would be condemned to hell unless they repent of their 'sins'.
"Stand up with god no matter what," the Silver Fern posted on social media, amidst the outrage. "Don't be afraid to stand up for the truth, even if that means you will be standing alone."
Israel Folau, a devoted Christian openly admitted he voted against marriage equality in Australia's postal vote in 2017.
Newshub.
