Expect more of the same from Harcourts in next season's premier one netball competition.
That is the message from coach Kelly Sargent to other teams who anticipate taking part in the competition.
Sargent is confident the core of this season's winning combination will be on deck again next year, although the composition
of the squad will alter.
"We've definitely lost Lisa Hannam, who has moved to Hawke's Bay, and we'll be without MichelleTeahan, who will be focusing on her basketball," Sargent said.
Question marks remain over the availability of Elena Mitchell, Sarah Watson and Emma Foote but Sargent is confident most of them, together with others who formed the core of experience that served the team so well this season, will be back again.
"And then there's Geraldine Carroll," Sargent said. "Hubba enjoys her netball. I don't think I'll have to twist her arm too far to get her back. So long as she doesn't try to twist mine as well," Sargent said, referring to her broken arm which is still in plaster.
"Same for Carlene Karaitiana, she should be back.
"I'm thinking that Katie Wyeth will be back around June next year from her working holiday in North America. She's such an asset. We'd obviously love to see her again."
Sargent is grateful to her experienced players for easing newcomers Jo de Vries and Naomi Reiri into the team and is keen to see both these players return.
She is confident De Vries, who is studying towards a nursing degree, will make herself available.
Sargent is open to approaches from other netballers who wanted to join her squad.
"We'll welcome new young blood."
As for herself? "Oh yes, I'll be there for sure. I'm not finished yet but I might have to find a slot in the defence somewhere."
