The Silver Ferns captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio has signed with the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic for next year's ANZ premiership.
Earlier this week the Pulse revealed Ekenasio was leaving the Wellington based franchise after they were unable to come to terms with Ekenasio for a new contract.
Ekenasio has been with the Pulse since 2015 but didn't play for the Pulse this year as she's pregnant with her second child.
Ameliaranne Ekenasio has been with the Pulse for six years. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Ekenasio said it had been a difficult decision to make having to weigh up the move with a newborn but she was looking forward to the new start with the Magic who finished bottom of the competition this year.
"I've never been more motivated to get back into the game although obviously there will be plenty of changes for me with a new team and a new family member," she said.
"The Magic and the people involved have an environment that I feel are really going to support me as a high performing athlete and a mum all in balance.
"I believe the more we can continue to grow our capacity to support returning mums the more experience and leadership we keep in the game and then in return giving back to the sport that we dedicate our lives to.
"This move is a fresh start where I feel hugely valued in what I bring across all areas and I'm really looking forward to taking those next few steps back onto court."
Ekenasio had been with the Pulse since 2015, moving across from Australia the year before when she also made her Silver Ferns debut.
Magic coach Mary-Jane Araroa said Ekensaio will not only bring leadership and athleticism to the side's shooting circle but also "winning knowledge."
Ekenasio is the second Silver Fern to leave the Pulse this year with defender Katrina Rore also departing to move to the Bay of Plenty leading to speculation she could also sign with the Magic for 2022.
-RNZ
