KEY POINTS:
Shooter Tania Dalton has withdrawn from the 2007 Silver Ferns netball squad.
Dalton, 35, said today she pulled out because she could no longer manage the commitments required to be part of the Silver Ferns' 2007 programme.
"I am incredibly sad to leave the Ferns and I will miss it," Dalton, 35, said.
"However, I know now is the right time for me to concentrate on my family.
"I have two young children and feel I would not do either netball or my family the justice they both deserve," added Dalton, who debuted for the Ferns in 1996.
Silver Ferns coach Ruth Aitken said Dalton has been an outstanding team member in the Silver Ferns over a number of years and would be missed in the squad.
"Tania was part of our successful 2003 world champion Silver Ferns team and has continued to provide the Ferns with maturity and resilience in the shooting circle.
"We wish her the very best in the next phase of her life," Aitken said.
Dalton's withdrawal from the Silver Ferns squad opens up a great opportunity for other shooters to step up and prove themselves.
No additions have been made to Silver Ferns squad of 15 at this time.
National selectors will continue to assess players in both National Bank Cup competition and training camps.
The next Silver Ferns squad camp is next month in Auckland.
- NZPA