Shooter Kiera Austin has informed the GIANTS that she wishes to explore her options elsewhere for season 2022 and beyond.
Austin has been part of the GIANTS since the club’s inception, with the Eastwood Ryde junior a training partner during the club’s inaugural season.
Coach Julie Fitzgerald thanked Austin for her contribution to the club both as a player and person.
“It is obviously disappointing to lose someone of Kiera’s ability and nature, but we respect her decision,” said Fitzgerald.
“Kiera has come such a long way since she joined us as a training partner and is now regarded as one of Australia’s best shooters.
“She played a significant role both on our bench and within the team this season and she’s approached her rehab with diligence and professionalism.
“We wish her well in her next venture.”
Austin made her Super Netball and club debut in round two, 2018, and for 2018/19 had a mix of opportunities at both wing attack and goal attack but sat second to some experienced players.
2020 was a breakout year for Austin as she cemented her spot, firstly in the starting seven and then eventually in her preferred position as a shooter.
Austin was awarded the GIANTS’ top honour, the HCF Most Valuable Player, and made her Australian Diamonds debut during the Constellation Cup in New Zealand.
In round one of season 2021, Austin ruptured her ACL and missed the entirety of the season.
The 24-year-old travelled the country with the team and, despite her injury, was a strong contributor to the team’s success.
Austin said time away from the court this year had given her an opportunity to reflect on her career and come to this difficult decision.
“It was certainly a tough decision and one I continually weighed up, but I want to continue to develop and grow as a player and I believe a new opportunity will help me get there,” said Austin
“I will always be grateful to Julie and the GIANTS for giving me my first-ever contract, but the timing just felt right.
“I’ve had the opportunity to meet and play with some of the best netballers in the world over the four years that I’ve spent at the club and have made lifelong friends.
“The GIANTS truly have some of the best members and fans. I was overwhelmed with the amount of love and support I received from the GIANTS community after my injury and their constant messages have made me so determined to get back out on the court.
“I can never thank the players and staff enough for looking after me and encouraging me in the early months of my rehab.
“The team played some incredible netball this year, which has only fuelled the fire in my belly to play again.
“My heart will always be a little bit orange.”
Austin joins Sam Poolman and Kristiana Manu’a in departing the GIANTS, with Poolman announcing her retirement and Manu’a opting to move to the New Zealand National League.
Tilly McDonell, Sophie Dwyer, April Brandley and Jamie-Lee Price have all committed to the GIANTS for season 2022 and beyond.
The GIANTS will announce the remainder of their 2022 squad before October 8.
