The 30 year-old has represented Canterbury for 12 years. Last year she led the Mercury Energy Tactix to victory against Queensland Firebirds when she filled in as captain for a match. “It’s a record I hope to continue – one from one,” she says.

Last year Maree appeared in the ANZ Championship season top ten lists for goal assists – 161, received centre passes – 218 and was seventh in the player of the year competition.

In 2006 she was selected to represent New Zealand as a Silver Fern and last September earned her 15th Silver Fern cap in the match against Australia in Melbourne.

Maree’s first captaincy role in 2010 will be in front of her home crowd in the clash against the Central Pulse at Westpac Arena on Monday, 22 March.

“I’m quietly confident. We’ve had a great build up pre-season and I’m certain that will translate into wins on the court.”

Last year Maree was vice-captain to the legendary Julie Seymour, now the Mercury Energy Tactix assistant coach. “I’m looking forward to being supported by Julie in her new role,” she says.

Coach Helen Mahon-Stroud says selecting Maree was a classic case of natural selection. “Maree has been a loyal player having gone from strength to strength over the years. She has a high work ethic and is a natural leader within the group.

“Maree has earned her place. She has the experience of the Silver Ferns elite environment and has participated in a World Cup. She knows what it takes to compete at the highest level!”

“We selected Anna Galvan and Anna Thompson because of their experience at both the national and international level. Anna Thompson is also part of our longer term succession plan.”

“We have a defender, a midcourter and an attacker leading the team - it makes perfect sense!”