It's been a big week for defender Kate Burley.
On Sunday she hoisted the ANZ premiership trophy aloft with the victorious Northern Mystics, on Tuesday she was named in the Silver Ferns development squad and today's she's announced she's joining the Southern Steel.
Burley, 24, joins returning defenders Te Huinga Reo Selby-Rickit and Sarahpheinna Woulf in Steel's defensive lineup.
She replaces goal keep Taniesha Fifita who is taking a break from netball who is off to do a year of missionary work with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Kate Burley Photo: Photosport
The decision to move south from Auckland is all about getting more regular court time.
"Being named in the development squad is definitely a step in the direction I want to be going in so it's another one closer to one day making that Ferns squad," she said.
"That's a big factor in my move - putting court time and learning ahead of convenience. It would have definitely been easier to stay at home but I really want to push myself. This year was when I decided I want give netball a good crack and I really want to strive for those higher honours so hopefully this will contribute to that in some way," she said.
"I thought why not now when the team is still rebuilding which is really exciting," she said.
"There's still that little part of me that's a bit scared because it is such a big move but I've talked to some of the older girls at Mystics and they've told me that's where the most growth happens.
Steel head coach Reinga Bloxham was thrilled with the potential of her defensive line-up.
"It's versatility with power, speed and brains," she said.
"Kate will add a new dynamic - she has quick closing speed but is agile and has good hops to compete for ball in the air.
-RNZ
