Three Dunedin-based staff members left before Christmas, but Fleming said Netball South had already filled two of the roles.
Former Mainland Tactix and Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic defender Kate Lloyd has come on board as performance lead, taking over from New Zealand secondary schools coach Jo Morrison, who stepped down in September.
Paula Shortall has been appointed as the Netball Smart development officer, taking over from Gwen Harrop, and is based in Central Otago.
Shortall, who was already contracted to Netball South previously, will oversee Netball Smart activators in Dunedin and Invercargill, as well as her role in Central Otago.
Netball Smart has provided funding to Dunedin Netball, which allowed an activator to still be on the ground in the city.
"That’s really worked out well because it means we have the best of both worlds," Fleming said.
Netball South is advertising for a coach and umpire lead to replace Lana Morrison. They are also advertising for a participation lead.
Fleming said the right applicant could be based throughout the zone — from Invercargill to Oamaru — and interviews were under way.
She was thrilled to have Lloyd and Shortall on board.
"They are super excited to be in their roles.
"We’re confident that we have a fantastic team in place to continue to harness the strengths of our game in the South and then build on that great experience for our members.
"I think we’re in a strong position for 2025."
Fleming paid tribute to the "incredible contributions" the two Morrisons and Harrop had made to Netball South through the years.
"We are really, really thrilled for them as they take on their new ventures," Fleming said.
Incoming Southern Steel assistant coach Liana Leota will also travel throughout the zone to host coaching workshops.
"It’s really cool to have someone of Liana’s calibre being able to work within our community with our community coaches."
Fleming also confirmed the National Netball League would go ahead for 2025.
Netball South will also recruit an assistant coach and manager to join Southern Blast head coach Abbey McKenzie.
The Southern netball fraternity has come out in force to support the Steel this season already.
Membership renewals had been positive and new memberships had "peaked higher than pre-Covid numbers" with total memberships sitting at more than 660.
Casual tickets will go on sale in early March.
"That’s a really positive outlook for what’s ahead.
"We’re confident that the season will bring incredible energy and great competition."
