The daughter of former Silver Ferns captain and coach Waimarama Taumaunu, Tiana Metuarau, will play for the Central Pulse in next year's ANZ Premiership netball competition.
At 15 years old, shooter Metuarau will be the youngest player in the competition.
Tiana Metuarau, daughter of former Silver Ferns captain and coach Wai Taumaunu, has been selected in the 2017 Central Pulse squad Photo: Central Pulse
She replaces Silver Ferns shooter Ameliaranne Ekenasio in the Pulse squad, who has withdrawn due to preganancy.
Metuarau says she's a bit overwhelmed by the call-up.
"I'm really excited but very nervous as well," she said.
"At this moment, my thoughts about going into the Pulse environment are to mix well with the team, learn as much as I can before the competition starts and give it a good go."
Pulse coach Yvette McCausland-Durie says she has no doubts about Metuarau's ability and character to take the leap into the semi-professional ranks.
Yvette McCausland-Durie has been appointed Silver Ferns assistant coach. Photo: Photosport
"She has got a really bright future and I think what she's achieved so far as a young player really does defy her age," McCausland-Durie said.
"She plays her role fully across all parts of the game….the rebound, the shot, ability to be conditioned and work incredibly hard and in terms of an attacker is highly involved.
"I feel she's really well rounded and despite her age actually does have an ability to compete, gets out on court and can put everything else aside to do that. She is a hugely exciting player."
Metuarau was the youngest player in this year's inaugural Beko League, where she was also coached by McCausland-Durie in the Central team.
She also played for the New Zealand under-21 team in an international tournament in Canberra this year.
- RNZ
