Whitfort, who hails from Queensland and arrived in Invercargill yesterday, will link up with head coach Wendy Frew as they look to build on the franchise’s fourth last season.
"I’m most excited about working with Wendy, a legend of the club and an outstanding coach," Whitfort said.
"She’s got a strong vision for the future of Steel, and the opportunity to be part of that and help drive what’s next really drew me in.
"It’s a big move, but it’s an opportunity I’m ready for. I’m looking forward to settling into Invercargill, connecting with the Steel community, and being all-in for the season."
Whitfort replaces Liana Leota, who has joined the Central Pulse as an assistant. She has had more than 20 years’ experience in high performance sport.
She has been a national selector and specialist pathway coach for Netball Australia since 2023, has been the head coach of the Queensland Firebirds Futures Academy for the past two seasons, and coached Victoria Fury to an Australian Netball League title in 2019.
She was also involved in professional development with the Diamonds during the 2024 and 2025 Constellation Cup series.
Frew said luring Whitfort to the South was a "real coup" for the Steel.
She was grateful for the sacrifices the Australian coach was making by moving.
"As I move into my second year in a coaching role, her knowledge and support will be incredibly valuable," Frew said.
"In the short time we’ve known each other, it’s clear we share the same values, work ethic and principles."
