Replacement shooter confirmed for Steel

Shooter Eseta Autagavaia has been signed by the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel as a permanent replacement for injured international George Fisher.

Fisher suffered a season-ending rupture to her ACL and an associated fracture during a preseason game earlier this month and is now awaiting surgery.

Autagavaia successfully linked with the Steel at last weekend’s pre-season tournament in Ōtaki and will now move south from Auckland to bolster the side’s shooting stocks.

The 26-year-old police officer is eager to make the most of the unexpected opportunity.

“I’m super excited to be on board with the Steel. They've always been a team known for their grit, hard-working 'never-say-never' attitude and how loyal and proud their fans are. Being part of that is going to be a huge privilege,” she said. 

“I’m really looking forward to exploring the unreal scenes of the deep South. I hear it's very picturesque and beautiful. It’s going to be a huge contrast from the big smoke up here but I'm looking forward to the change of pace.”

Autagavaia, who was initially contracted to the Robinhood Stars as a training partner this season, is no stranger to answering an SOS call. Last year she made her ANZP debut for the Stars against the Tactix before heading south to the Magic for the last eight games of the season.

She has been a regular campaigner in the National Netball League environment for the past five years and represented Samoa at the 2019 Netball World Cup.

“Otaki was a blast and a real tease for what's to come of the season and I couldn't be more excited to explore and grow on the connections I have with the girls, especially with Georgia, Saviour and Jess in the circle,” Autagavaia said.

“Their confidence to go to post and feed any ball brings a lot to my game and I can't wait to run out with them. 

“I’m hoping to bring my calm and collected presence on court as I continue to build on my game especially at this level. I want to contribute towards maximising the potential the Steel has to take out the ANZ Premiership.”