Belinda Colling Withdraws from Silver Ferns

15 September 2006 MEDIA RELEASE

Belinda Colling Withdraws from Silver Ferns

Netball New Zealand confirmed today that Belinda Colling has withdrawn from the Silver Ferns squad as she is expecting her second child.

Colling, confirmed that due to her pregnancy, she has decided to withdraw from the Silver Ferns team who are due to play Australia in the three test Fisher & Paykel Series in October.

Silver Ferns Coach Ruth Aitken says while it is disappointing for the sport that Colling has withdrawn from the team and squad, our organisation fully supports players who wish to combine motherhood with their sporting careers.

“This is fantastic news for Belinda and her partner Charlie. Belinda has given so much to the Ferns and we wish her all the best for this pregnancy.”

Colling who is due to give birth at the end of March next year, said she was excited to be pregnant again but would really miss being part of the team in the upcoming events.

“It’s been an incredible journey being part of the Silver Ferns and I would never have dreamed of all the experiences that have come with the sport. Max (Belinda and Charlie’s 16 month old boy) has added such an incredible element to our lives and we are really excited about our new addition to the family.

The National Selectors will name a replacement shooter on Monday 2 October, after the conclusion of the Scottwood Trust Netball Champs.

ENDS

Player Profile Information:

Belinda Colling
Positions: GA, GS
Caps: 91
National Squad Silver Ferns Squad: 1996 – 2006
Silver Ferns Debut : 1996 v South Africa
National Bank Cup: Southern Sting – 2006
Canterbury Flames 2001 – 2004
Rebels 1998 – 2000
Scottwood Trust Netball Champs: Canterbury 2001 – 2003, 2005 & Otago 1998

© Scoop Media