New recruit for Pulse feels that shift to NZ like coming home
The Central Pulse have recruited a rising Australian star for their 2015 lineup.
Ameliaranne Wells, 23, will join the team for next year’s transTasman ANZ Championship after spending the last four years as a shooter for the Queensland Firebirds.
Though she was born in Queensland, she is eligible to play in New Zealand as a nonimport player thanks to her New Zealand-born father.
‘‘I am super excited to be able to explore my netball in Wellington for the Haier Pulse,’’ she said.
‘‘I can’t wait to start working with a new group of wonderful girls and I am completely humbled by the opportunity of being able to join a new netball family.’’
Wells began her netball career at the age of 12 and proved to be a promising talent when she was selected for Queensland’s under-19 squad.
She went on to play for the Australian under- 21 team, and won a championship in 2011 with the Queensland Firebirds.
Having only ever played for Australian teams, the move across the ditch could be intimidating, but Wells said she felt connected to New Zealand through her Nga¯ puhi father.
‘‘I still have a lot of family in New Zealand, so I can’t wait to get back to our family roots.
‘‘It’s been a long time since we have been back, but I have this feeling like I’m coming home.’’