A relatively stable Dunedin team was named yesterday ahead in a bid to win three successive national championship titles.
Seven players remain from the squad that charged to victory on its home court last year.
Classy attackers Te Paea Selby-Rickit and Olivia Bates and Steel midcourter Gina Crampton lead a ''veteran'' group that also includes Sophie Napper, Bridget Thayer, Miaana Walden and Renaye Flockton.
Storm Purvis and Celina Ledgard were unavailable for selection, but there are two intriguing new faces.
Dunedin under-19 representative Danielle Gray and Dunedin under-17 player and New Zealand secondary schools triallist Abby Erwood come into the team after impressive performances at their respective age-group tournaments earlier this month.
Dunedin coach Lauren Piebenga was excited to confirm a squad that should start as one of the favourites.
''It has been fantastic to be able to watch players competing in the local club competition, and some consistent performances there and within the New Zealand age-group competitions have led to some selections,'' Piebenga said.
''It is very encouraging to see the depth of players we have here at club level.
"A number of players were putting their hand up, which led to some tough selection calls.
''It is great to have these girls pushing the incumbents and making them work hard for their selections.''
The national championships will be held at the Trusts Arena in Auckland from September 29 to October 3.
National championships
Dunedin team
Te Paea Selby-Rickit (Southern), Olivia Bates (College), Kirsten Craig (Phys Ed), Bridget Thayer (University-Albion), Gina Crampton (Southern), Miaana Walden (Southern), Sophie Napper (College), Stacey Peeters (College), Zoe Walker (Southern), Abby Erwood (South Otago High School), Danielle Gray (College), Renaye Flockton (College).
