Steel loses backup shooter
THE Steel has lost another shooter, albeit a backup one.
Aliyah Dunn (17) will join former Silver Ferns shooter Ameliaranne Ekenasio at the Pulse next season.
Dunn played in the Beko League for South but also provided injury cover for the Steel this season.
She is the third shooter to move away, joining star goal shoot Jhaniele FowlerReid and Jamie Hume in pursuing opportunities elsewhere.
Dunn, who is a shade under 1.9m, can play in both the goal attack and goal shoot bib. She was a member of this year’s New Zealand World Youth Cupwinning team and and is a player on the rise.
However, there was no room for her at the Steel with Te Paea SelbyRickit, Jennifer O’Connell and Olivia Bates shaping as the Steel’s shooting trio next season.
‘‘We are disappointed that one of our local shooters has made the choice to play for another franchise,’’
Steel chief executive
Lana Winders said.
‘‘We are very fortunate to have really strong depth in the shooter area locally. In fact, we were struggling to find a home for all of the talent we have, so it is not that big of a gap to be fair.’’
Dunn is looking forward to the move north and the challenge ahead.
‘‘I am a little nervous but this is a great opportunity to spread my wings and challenge myself in a new environment,’’ she said.
‘‘I am looking forward to becoming part of the Pulse team and learning all I can from their experienced players and coaching staff.’’
Ekenasio returns to the Pulse after a year off to start a family. The new mum is looking to reignite her career and add to the 12 appearances she has made for the Silver Ferns.
‘‘I can’t wait to really get back into things with the Pulse,’’ she said.
‘‘I’ve never sat on the sideline like that before, so it was a big change for me.
‘‘I’ve had a few weeks of playing club which is still pretty fresh but it’s so good to be back out on court.’’
The Pulse has confirmed eight of its roster for 2018: Ekenasio, Aliyah Dunn Sulu Fitzpatrick, Mila Reuelu-Buchanan, Katrina Grant, Tiana Metuarau, Whitney Souness AND Karin Burger.
The Steel is expected to announce more signings today. So far, Wendy Frew, Gina Crampton and Shannon Francois are confirmed for 2018.