Netball: Southern Steel captain not offered contract extension

Southern Steel captain Jodi Brown has not been offered a contract extension at the franchise. Photo / Sarah Ivey

Southern Steel captain Jodi Brown has not been offered a contract extension at the franchise.

The Steel confirmed today the Silver Fern shooter will not be returning in 2015 after leading the side for the past three seasons. It is believed Brown and her family were already considering a move out of the Otago region.

Steel chief executive Sue Clarke said the decision to not renew Brown's contract was a reflection of a new direction for the franchise.

"We need to have succession plans in place to ensure our franchise continues to thrive and that includes identifying opportunities for players to step up to the plate," she said.

"Jodi has been an integral member of our team who has made a significant contribution over the last three years. In sport, tough decisions must be made - and this was a difficult one.

"After reviewing our strategic goals moving forward, we have identified the need to look further than just the next season. For us, that means investing in players who we believe will excel given the chance to take our franchise into the future.

Brown said she was disappointed not to be returning for Steel but respected the franchise's decision.

"I still believe I have an incredible amount to offer netball but sometimes what you have to offer simply doesn't fit with the planned direction of the team, and that's just a reality of professional sport," she said.

Brown said she would take time to assess her options before making a decision on where her playing future lies.

"I'm a firm believer that everything will work out in the end and what will be will be. As you get older, you get a little bit wiser and can put everything into perspective," she said.

"My immediate focus is on the Commonwealth Games and making sure that is a successful campaign for New Zealand netball."

It is believed the Central Pulse, based in Brown's former hometown of Wellington, are chasing the Silver Fern's signature following the departure of veteran goal attack Donna Wilkins.