A versatile squad of 16 has been named to represent the Southern Blast in this year’s Beko Netball League.
The Blast will be led by new head coach Jo Morrison, who has stepped up from specialist coach last year, with support from assistant coaches Lana Morrison and Abbey McKenzie.
The Beko Netball League (BNL), which is now entering its fifth year, sits directly below the ANZ Premiership with six teams representing the Zones, and is an important pathway for players and coaches to the elite level.
Twenty-five games will be contested this season including 16 to be televised live on Sky Sport, culminating in the grand final which will be played at the TSB Arena in Wellington on June 21.
The 16 players named in the squad include three current Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel training partners – Della-May Vining, Kate Hartley and Kiana Pelasio.
“There have been some players who have put a lot of work in over summer and been rewarded with a spot in squad. It’s one of the hardest selections we’ve had to make in a long time which is great for our Zone,” Morrison said.
“I’m really excited about leading this group has been a specialist coach last year. We’re trying to create a positive and fun environment for these players, while also having a strong link to the Steel and giving players a pathway to the next level.
“The Beko Netball League provides a great opportunity for development. With the 16 players we’ve got, we have the ability to change things up and play different styles each week which is exciting.”
The Southern Blast open their 2020 Beko Netball League campaign against defending champions Central Manawa on Sunday 22 March at TSB Arena in Wellington.
2020 Southern Blast
- Annabel Angland
- Ella Brown
- Sophie Erwood
- Maddie Feaunati
- Kate Hartley
- Sara McCarthy
- Mara McCurdy
- Holly Munro
- Grace Namana
- Kiana Pelasio
- Lauren Pickett
- Meg Sycamore
- Meleitia Tatupu
- Taylor Thorne
- Della-May Vining
- Georgia White.