Heffernan signs on again at Steel

Kate Heffernan. PHOTO: MICHAEL BRADLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Kate Heffernan. PHOTO: MICHAEL BRADLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Silver Fern Kate Heffernan will spearhead an exciting midcourt in her eighth season for the Southern Steel in 2025.

Heffernan, who captained the Steel this season, Renee Savai’inaea and Serina Daunakamakama have all re-signed for next season.

They join Tactix captain Kimiora Poi to round out the Steel’s midcourt and shooters Aliyah Dunn, Georgia Heffernan and Summer Temu, who were announced earlier this week.

"I’m super excited to be back with the Steel for another season. The franchise and team means a lot to me and I love representing home", Heffernan said.

"I think we are going to have a really exciting and strong group which I can’t wait to be a part of."

Savai’inaea, who was the Steel’s 2024 player of the year, returns for her fifth season and looked forward to working with new coach Wendy Frew.

Daunakamakama joined the Steel mid-way through this season as a replacement player but made a big impact at wing attack.

"I am really grateful for the opportunity to represent the pink the blue again.

"I still have a lot to learn so I am very fortunate to be surrounded by some very experienced players."

Poi was equally excited by the potential combinations in her move to the south.

"I think all three players are exciting players. With the four of us, I’d say we’d be able to provide a bit of power and sharpness", Poi said.

"Kate and I would be the experience if you call it, Renee has been around a few years now and is your dogged WD who gets ball, and Serina has so much untapped potential.

"I’m excited to see what we all can do to help add to each others games."

The Steel wished Shannon Saunders and Ivari Christie, who were both ruled out this season with knee complaints, well with their rehabilitation.

The Steel are yet to announce their defence end.