Fowler inks new deal

Fresh off her record-breaking season in the ANZ Championships in Australia, Jamaica's ace goal shooter, Jhaniele Fowler, has secured a two-year contract extension with New Zealand-based club Southern Steel.

The 23-year-old Fowler is the most sought-after netball player in the world, after an excellent shooting display in her debut season, which will come to end tomorrow.

In an interview, Fowler told the website www.anz-championship.com that she is very happy to be staying, which gave her the opportunity to ply her trade in the top league in the world.

"Steel have proven themselves enough ... I see genuine things in this franchise," said Fowler. "I've enjoyed the company of the girls and I always look forward to being among them.

"I've also enjoyed how I've been taken care of. My mum and grandmum will be very happy to know how well I've been treated here."

Fowler placed her name in the ANZ Championship record books for the most goals scored in both an individual game and a season, surpassing the record of 574 goals set by compatriot Carla Borrego of the Adelaide Thunderbirds, in 2010.

The lanky shooter currently sits on 606 goals heading into the Steel's final match of the regular season against the Haier Pulse tomorrow.

HUMBLE, THANKFUL

"I am humble about it. I am just happy and thankful," she said.

"I have prayed for some of my scores and I have never got a goal below what I have asked for. It's not me alone who does it, but I am happy for my contribution."

Fowler, who previously represented Waulgrovians in the local leagues, is now looking forward to her final game of the season.

"I don't have to worry about where I'm playing next year, so finishing off the season, it won't be on my mind. I can just focus on what I need to do," she said.

Meanwhile, Steel's chief executive officer, Sue Clarke, said the franchise was very delighted to extend Fowler's contract.

"Jhaniele is new to our franchise this year, but she has fitted in seamlessly," Clarke said. "Her talent is undeniable and she will continue to play an integral role next season, but our success is not limited to one player," she said.

- R.B.