The Steel said on Monday it would advertise the coaching position for next year and Broughton was free to reapply.
But Broughton appears to have already sealed her fate.
Though she could not be contacted yesterday, Radio Sport reported that Broughton was not interested in re-applying for the position.
She had fallen out with the board this season and did not have its full confidence.
Broughton had disagreed with the decision to not bring back shooter Megan Dehn this season, with the Steel management instead going for midcourter Natasha Chokljat.
Broughton may look to link up with the Tactix or the Pulse, both of which have vacant positions for head coach. The writing was on the wall for Broughton when the Steel announced its intentions, as few coaches ever get their jobs back after they are asked to re-apply. All Black coach Graham Henry was the obvious exception, when he got his job back in 2007.
Broughton has been the only coach the Steel has had, this being her fourth year with the side.
She had previously coached the Southern Sting from 1997-2008.
Broughton finishes with a wining record of just over 50% with the Steel, having won 27 out of 53 games.
With Broughton out of the picture, no obvious candidate stands out.
Contenders may include former Australian international Natalie Avellino, who coached Southland last year, former Steel assistant Margaret Foster, Steel assistant coach Jo Cunningham or New Zealand under-21 coach Janine Southby.
