Fans to reinforce Steel - June 25, 2010

Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel fans will unite to reinforce the team – albeit from a distance – as it strives to win the ANZ Championship minor semi-final on Monday night.

While the “sudden-death” playoff game against the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic will be played at Auckland’s Vector Arena, the Steel’s loyal fans are invited to attend an exclusive function at Invercargill’s newest nightspot, Barluca.

“We might be playing at the other end of the country, but we still take a lot of strength from knowing those at home are cheering us on,” Steel vice-captain Wendy Frew said.

“Who knows, if they unleash their vocal chords in unison, hopefully it will spur us on to victory in Auckland!”

Southern Steel chief executive Julie Paterson said support from fans undoubtedly contributed to the team’s success on the court.

“We want to acknowledge that loyalty by providing an opportunity for Steel fans to get together and enjoy what is sure to be a great spectacle of netball,” she said.

Limited to 200 tickets, the function will be staged from 6pm with coverage of the game live on the big screen from 7pm.

ILT sales and marketing manager Gary Muir said Barluca was opening its doors especially for Steel supporters.

“It’s the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel but on this occasion we are going to gather everyone at our newest inner-city establishment, Barluca,” Muir said.

“While it doesn’t normally open on a Monday night, we’ve transformed it into the official Steel netball centre to cheer the girls on against the Magic.”

Barluca staff have created a scrumptious Southern Steel cocktail for the event and supper will be served at halftime to ensure fans’ energy levels remain at their peak.

Tickets to the function, which cost $10, are available from The Kiln in Don Street or at the door on the night.