Silver Ferns squad named

National Selectors named today the 16 players selected for the 2008 Silver Ferns squad.

New comers to the Silver Ferns squad are current NZ A squad members Anna Thompson, Erika Burgess; Steel mid-courter Wendy Telfer and Magic defender Jodi Tod.

Aitken said there were some tough selection decisions but that she and the National Selectors were confident the 16 players selected will continue to develop further individually and as a unit over the coming months.

“We believe this is a group of athletes who are extremely committed to the challenges ahead. The squad is a good mix of experience and youth and has an eye to the future - with six of the squad having been in the winning World Youth Cup team of 2005,” Aitken said.

The new Silver Ferns captain and team to play against Australia and England (in the New World International Netball Series will be named at the end of August following a Silver Ferns squad camp.

Shooters: Paula Griffin (Mystics), Anna Thompson (Tactix), Maria Tutaia (Magic), Irene van Dyk (Magic), Daneka Wipiiti (Steel),)

Midcourt: Maree Bowden (Tactix), Erika Burgess(Steel), Laura Langman (Magic), Julie Seymour (Tactix), Wendy Telfer (Steel)

Defence: Leana de Bruin (Mystics), Katrina Grant (Steel), Joline Henry (Magic), Sheryl Scanlan (Mystics), Jodi Tod (Magic), Casey Williams(Magic).