Fowler-Reid commits to Steel in 2017

Jamaican shooting star, Jhaniele Fowler-Reid has signed with the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel for New Zealand’s 2017 ANZ Netball Elite League.

Steel chief executive Lana Winders said she was thrilled to re-sign Fowler-Reid for a fifth season.

“She’s one of our first full signings for the new ANZ Netball Elite League and provides an incredible platform from which to build the rest of the player roster,” Winders said.

“I’m very excited for our savvy Steel fans who know just how crucial Jae’s contribution on the court is.

“I rate her as the best GS on the planet right now and we are thrilled she wants to come back to Invercargill again next year and take the court for the Steel in our new elite domestic competition.”

Fowler-Reid was the most prolific shooter in ANZ Championship history, becoming the first player to shoot over 700 goals in a season this year.

“I’m excited to embark on a new competition with the Steel. Honestly I am just so keen to embrace it. I know it’s going to be just as exciting and just as intense,” Fowler-Reid said.

“Family is so important to me and I feel like family here. Everyone looks out for me and wherever I go I feel like I’m home. This is my second home and happy players make good players.

“I was only ever signing for the first year (2013) but being here has exceeded my expectations. And the cold doesn’t bother me anyway,” she quipped.

The Steel recorded its most successful campaign in their 9-year ANZ Championship history in 2016, and Fowler-Reid was keen to see the team stick together and continue the momentum.

“It was more than a step up, I think we have taken a few steps up. I think we will be a force to be reckoned with this coming season,” she said.

“There is much more to come because we do have a lot of room to improve. Imagine if we improve on what we’re already doing - we’re going to be dominating.”