Metuarau called up for Pulse

Tiana Metuarau has been named to replace Ameliaranne Ekenasio in the Pulse line-up for the 2017 ANZ Premiership.

Metuarau, 15, has made a habit of defying her tender years with early entry into national secondary school and age-group teams and the Beko Netball League in recent years.

The youngest player in this year’s inaugural Beko Netball League, Metuarau’s consistently impressive form was duly recognised with elevation to the NZ U21 and Silver Ferns Development squad.

Metuarau’s meteoric rise has left the unassuming Year 11 Wellington East Girls’ College student slightly overwhelmed.

“I’m really excited but very nervous as well,” she said. “At this moment, my thoughts about going into the Pulse environment are to mix well with the team, learn as much as I can before the competition starts and give it a good go.”

The immediate concern for the daughter of former Silver Ferns coach and captain, Wai Taumaunu, is gunning for a spot in the NZ U21 squad for Netball World Youth Cup GABORONE 2017.

Pulse coach Yvette McCausland-Durie has no doubts about the teenager’s ability and character to take the leap into the semi-professional ranks in her stride.

“She has got a really bright future and I think what she’s achieved so far as a young player really does defy her age,” McCausland-Durie said.

“She plays her role fully across all parts of the game….the rebound, the shot, ability to be conditioned and work incredibly hard and in terms of an attacker is highly involved. I feel she’s really well rounded and despite her age actually does have an ability to compete, gets out on court and can put everything else aside to do that. She is a hugely exciting player.”

Ekenasio, who recently announced she was pregnant with her first child, is expected to play a strong mentoring role at the Pulse, while former shooting great Irene van Dyk will also be on hand in a support role.