Silver Ferns captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio has confirmed her next move after leaving Central Pulse, signing on with Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic for the 2022 ANZ Premiership season.
Ekenasio, 30, took a break from netball in March, before revealing she would miss the entire 2021 season, pregnant with her second child.
On Monday, Central Pulse confirmed Ekenasio's departure from the Wellington side, as they announced that Tiana Metuarau would partner Aliyah Dunne in the shooting circle.
Ekenasio's departure comes alongside that of fellow Silver Ferns veteran, defender Katrina Rore.
But on Thursday, the Magic confirmed that they'd sealed Ekenasio's signature, bringing the Silver Ferns north after six seasons in the capital.
"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," Ekenasio says.
"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.
"This is an opportunity for me to grow my own game with different combinations, help nurture those around me and create something exciting with a new franchise."
Ekenasio also hailed the team environment within the Waikato-Bay of Plenty side, acknowledging the Magic's support as she returns to the court after missing all of 2021.
"The Magic have a fantastic family culture and that support both on and off the court helped with my decision and this new chapter in my netball career.
"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 was a key cog in the Central Pulse side that won the ANZ Premiership in 2019 and 2020, as well as being part of the 2019 Netball World Cup winning Silver Ferns.
