Heffernan Celebrates Century Before Exit

Southern Steel captain Kate Heffernan has announced she will leave the team at the end of the season, choosing to continue her netball career across the Tasman with the Adelaide Thunderbirds.

The 25-year-old midcourter has been a key figure for the Steel since her debut in 2018, racking up 101 games in the ANZ Premiership. Her decision to join the 2026 Suncorp Super Netball League marks the end of an era for the franchise.

“I’m incredibly proud to play all of my ANZ Premiership games for my home team and this decision to take my netball in a new direction has not been made lightly. It will be so tough to leave my Steel family and I am grateful for everything the franchise has done for me,” Heffernan said.

“On the other hand, I am excited to see what the future holds in a new environment with the Thunderbirds. The opportunity to experience the intensity of a new competition and different opponents can only enhance my netball even further and I’m ready to embrace the challenges ahead.”

Steel head coach Wendy Frew said Heffernan's move was expected given her talent and leadership qualities.

“I have had the privilege of both playing alongside and coaching Kate during her time with the Steel and she is such a standout player. She brings real leadership and experience, along with her defensive flair, and her signature is a real coup for any team,” she said.

“It has been so exciting to see how she’s grown throughout her career and, as much as she is a massive loss for us as a team, I am proud to see her embark on this new chapter.”

Netball New Zealand has granted Heffernan an exemption, allowing her to continue playing for the Silver Ferns. She was recently named in the national squad for the 2025/2026 cycle.

Steel chief executive Sonya Fleming praised Heffernan for her contribution to the team.

“Kate has been an integral part of our Steel family for the past seven years and we will miss her immensely. It has been amazing to witness one of our own homegrown southern talents accomplish remarkable things and this latest achievement is no exception,” she said.

“Right now, it feels hard to even imagine a Steel team without Kate in it and that speaks volumes about the role she has played. We wish her all the best in her endeavours and know she will always remain a valued part of our Steel family.”