Seventeen years after making her netball debut for Canterbury in the National Championships, Donna Wilkins (Loffhagen) will again be in red and black when she steps out for the Tactix in the 2011 ANZ Championships.

 

Following the recent birth of her second child, Jack, Wilkins, the veteran of 64 tests for the Silver Ferns, has signed for the Tactix for the 2011 season.

 

“It’s nice to come back to Canterbury to where my netball career started. “I’m very keen to play in a team where I believe I can make a difference while sharing my knowledge with such talented young players,” she said.

 

While Wilkins lives on a farm in Northern Southland, she believes there will be plenty of babysitting volunteers in Christchurch.

 

“I have a strong base of family and friends in the city, which is awesome. I’ll also be able to get a few hints from Julie (Seymour) and how she manages to fit in her busy lifestyle around her young family.”

 

Helen Mahon-Stroud, coach of the Tactix, said that Donna’s influence on the team will be immense.

 

“While her presence on the court will be invaluable, I think her influence outside match day will be equally important. Just look at the number of games she has played for the Silver Ferns, coupled with her experience as a basketballer in the Australian and United States leagues.

 

“When you look at the average age and experience of our team, you quickly realise what an impact she will have. Imagine Donna playing alongside such young talent as Ellen Halpenny and Anna Thompson. ”

 

“In fact it’s a great opportunity for our entire attack line to train and play with such an experienced internationally competitive shooter,” she said.