Southern Steel lock in two international stars for 2024
“Our focus is to make sure we have a team which can not only compete but get back into finals contention."
The Southern Steel has moved quickly to calm some of the nerves amongst Steel fans.
It follows the departure of 2023 player of the year Kate Burley, most improved player Saviour Tui, and experienced midcourter Sam Winders.
Steel confirmed on Friday that star English import George Fisher and Silver Ferns midcourter Shannon Saunders will wear the Steel dress in 2024.
Fisher missed the 2023 campaign on the back of a serious knee injury, while Saunders had a season out after becoming a mother for the first time.
Saunders will combine her talents with dynamic Silver Ferns midcourter Kate Heffernan, the formidable Renee Savai’inaea and emerging talent Ivari Christie.
Fisher will reignite her exciting partnership with Georgia Heffernan, while Grace Namana earns her first full contract after debuting as a replacement player previously.
The Steel is coming off a winless 2023 campaign, and have lost starters Burley, Tui, and Winders but coach Reinga Bloxham believes the Steel line-up presents as strong contenders in 2024.
Bloxham is currently in Cardiff preparing for next month’s Netball World Cup with the Wales national team.
“Our focus is to make sure we have a team which can not only compete but get back into finals contention,” she said about the Steel.
“Contracting always provides opportunities and challenges. Finding the right balance of players, personalities, talent and work ethic is tricky. I’m always grateful for the interest we attract to our franchise which steams around environment, but it’s always great to see those who continue to stay or return.”
She was excited to see Fisher and Heffernan have the chance to cement their combination which has previously shown strong potential.
“It’s awesome to have George and Georgia returning. Georgia has gained so much experience from this season and can take those learnings into next. George is working hard on her rehab and progressing well so all going well, she will be ready to get into preseason with the team next year,” Bloxham said.
“Grace is returning after being away for a year. She has experience in our environment and is eager to keep learning and growing her game.”
She described the midcourt as “strong and reliable”.
“Kate just continues to go from strength to strength building her repertoire and Shannon will add that stability, control and experience she possesses. Ivari gained so much experience this season and her opportunities on court have given her more depth even though she is still developing.”
Steel chief executive Sonya Fleming said the franchise was in the process of finalising its defensive roster.
“As with previous years, the contracting space takes a measured approach. I’m excited to be soon be in a position to confirm our final players for next season,” she said.
“There has been some player movement which reinforces the professionalism of our domestic league and gives our athletes the chance to seek out new opportunities, including some of our Steel alumni, and we wish them well in their new endeavours.”