KEY POINTS:
She may be gone in body, but Temepara George will continue to guide the Silver Ferns in spirit - via cellphone.
At the end of August, the former Ferns vice-captain will set up home in Townsville with her partner, Cowboys league backrower Sione Faumuina, and her two children.
She will probably watch the world netball championships in November on television, but will lend her support to the Ferns through the wonders of texting.
During the last series against Australia, the 59-test veteran texted her centre successor, Laura Langman, assuring her she was doing a good job.
"She's a legend, her ability is phenomenal, and she sends words of encouragement to me," Langman said yesterday, after it was confirmed George wouldn't be returning to the Silver Ferns to defend the world title.
George praised Langman and backed the Silver Ferns to retain the title in her absence.
"Laura's taken on that role amazingly well. If only we could cut her in half and have her play centre and wing defence," George laughed. "But it needs everyone to play well.
"All the talent is there, it's just time they need to build on the new relationships. I think they have enough time to get it right."
The timing wasn't right for George. When the date of the world championships was pushed to November, she began to have doubts.
Faumuina had signed for two seasons in North Queensland, but they agreed to give it a go - living apart and playing out their respective high-profile careers. When George returned from the Ferns' tour to England disheartened with her performance, she re-evaluated what she wanted from life.
"In netball, your relationship always takes a back seat, and it's such a big commitment to play for the Silver Ferns," she said.
"I decided my relationship and my family had to come first. My kids are 13 and 9 and I feel like I haven't seen them for many of those years.
"I've won a world title and a Commonwealth Games gold, which helped me make my decision.
"Sione and I needed to do this. I've told him he's a very lucky boy."
Up till 3pm on Saturday, when she had to ring Ferns coach Ruth Aitken, George still wasn't certain.
"I know I've made the right decision, because I feel no regret. It's just in my heart that it hurts," she said. "I had to go buy some chocolate. It's meant to help in situations like this."
Eleven years after first making the New Zealand squad, George, 31, wants to play in next year's new Tasman Trophy, but it could well be for the Queensland side.
"I'll have to see what my priority is again. I'm not getting any younger."
