Pitman signs for Pulse

Jul 8, 2015 - 11:43 PM Versatile Australian midcourter Chelsea Pitman will return to trans-Tasman netball with Central Pulse next season.

Pitman was a member of the championship-winning Queensland Firebirds in 2011, and was also part of the side who lost the 2013 grand final 50-48 to Adelaide Thunderbirds.

The 27-year-old also played for Canterbury Tactix in 2010 and West Coast Fever last year.

She took a break from the trans-Tasman league this season to turn out for England coach Tracey Neville's Manchester Thunder team, following partner Kevin Locke's move to Salford in the Super League.

Born in NSW, Pitman earned 15 international test caps with the Australian Diamonds and was a member of the World Cup-winning team in 2011.

Pitman holds a New Zealand passport through her Kiwi mother, so her addition to the Pulse roster leaves the Wellington-based franchise still to fill their overseas import spot.

New Pulse coach Tanya Dearns says Pitman's versatility was a key consideration in her signing, given she can play at wing attack, goal attack and centre.

"My focus during the recruitment process for 2016 has been about finding a point of difference and securing Chelsea really enforces that," Dearns said.

"Her vision and strength to the circle edge is outstanding, and the added bonus is her versatility to play in the circle."

Pitman joins Katrina Grant, Phoenix Karaka, Elias Shadrock and Whitney Souness as confirmed Pulse signings for 2016.

Source: AAP