Fisher ruled out of ANZ Premiership season
Southern shooter George Fisher has been ruled out of the entire ANZ Premiership netball season due to an ongoing knee injury.
The Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel shooter has not yet fully recovered an injury suffered during last year’s preseason.
Despite the best efforts of Fisher and her medical teams in both New Zealand and England, unexpected setbacks have hindered her recent progress, the side said in a statement on Friday.
“It's something that's really hard to process and try and get your head round. I’m just trying to take everything day-byday at the moment and work on what I can work on which is my rehab,” Fisher said.
“Sometimes it's harder, knowing that you tried everything when it comes to recovery and rehab and your body just sometimes feels like it's failing you, which is a strange process, but one I'm still working through.”
Fisher is hoping to be back in the country in a couple weeks and said her role would be similar to last year – “just helping out in whatever way I can and supporting the team”.
Steel chief executive Sonya Fleming said Fisher had the unwavering support of all involved at the franchise as she navigated the challenge to her rehabilitation momentum.
“George was tracking so well and excited about the prospect of being back on court for Steel in 2024. Our team and management are all absolutely gutted for her and naturally really feel for their teammate.
“Prioritising George’s health and wellbeing is paramount and it’s essential we take the necessary steps now to ensure a strong recovery for her future in the sport.
Fisher will continue with the franchise, albeit in an alternative role off the court.
“You can bet she will be our shooters’ biggest support and mentor and will play an important part in our home games interacting with our amazing fans, along with supporting the community space of our sport,” Fleming said.
Shooter Jennifer O’Connell, a member of the 2017 and 2018 premiership-winning teams, was recruited in January to prepare for this scenario.
“It is fantastic to have a local player of Jen’s calibre available to step up as such a crucial member of the team.
“We appreciate her enthusiastic approach and are eagerly anticipating her return to netball’s elite ranks,” Fleming said.
Steel’s pre-season preparation continues as it hosts five ANZ Premiership teams for its inaugural Southern Showdown tournament in Dunedin, which started on Friday.
The MG Mystics, Avis Magic, Te Wānanga o Ruakawa Pulse and Trident Homes Tactix have ventured south for the event, to be staged at the Edgar Centre.
Tickets and three-day passes are on sale online at www.iticket.co.nz or directly from the Edgar Centre.