Steel coach named on team sheet as injury strikes
“While I’m not sure Liana expected to be packing her sneakers and playing kit, we are lucky to have someone of her netball pedigree available and willing to step up if we need her to.”
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In an unexpected twist, assistant coach Liana Leota could potentially take the court in the Southern Steel’s ANZ Premiership opener against Tactix in Christchurch tonight.
Leota, 40, has been included on the team sheet with the Steel suffering a cruel blow before the season.
Captain Kate Heffernan suffered a knee injury in training this week and has been ruled out of Sundays game/ Just how long she will be sidelined for has yet to be confirmed.
Leota, former Silver Fern, was a key component in the Steel’s midcourt from 2008 to 2011 and, after a three-year stint with the Pulse, went on to play in the Super League in the UK.
Head coach Wendy Frew said it was unfortunate to lose Hefferan.
“Obviously no team wants to be in a position where you’re having to look at alternative options but the reality is we have a couple of injuries which need to be managed so the smart decision here is to ensure we have good backup on the bench if we need it.
“While I’m not sure Liana expected to be packing her sneakers and playing kit, we are lucky to have someone of her netball pedigree available and willing to step up if we need her to.”
The Steel has promoted training partner Holly McRae into the squad as a temporary replacement for defender Dakota Thomas, who has been managing a niggly injury during preseason.
Khanye’-Lii Munro-Nonoa also heads south from Auckland, taking the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the elite environment instead of suiting up for the Comets in the Synergy Hair Netball League.
A dynamic ball-hunter, the 20-year-old impressed for the Northern Stars last season.
“I’m confident both Holly and Khanye’-Lii will make the most of this opportunity and it will be great to have them with us,” Frew said.
“The entire team has worked incredibly hard during the preseason and we’re excited to finally get on court and play for points, which count towards our ultimate goals for the season.”
Centre pass for tonight’s game is scheduled for 7pm.