However, the 26-year-old said it was an unsettling period when the franchise decided to advertise Robyn Broughton's coaching position.
Frew's loyalties were split. As a proud Southlander, playing anywhere else would have felt wrong. But not playing for her mentor did not seem right, either.
Ultimately, though, her heart is in Southland and she has signed on for her fifth season, joining former Silver Ferns shooter Jodi Brown and midcourter Hayley Saunders as confirmed players for the 2012 season.
"Obviously, a lot of my life is down here and I'm a proud Southlander," Frew told the Otago Daily Times.
"It has been a tough time since the season finished but I'm hoping to put everything behind me and, as I've said, focus on next season and stick to the things that I can improve on in terms of my game."
Frew received "a couple" of approaches from other franchises through her agent but decided against pursuing them.
"I didn't approach any other franchises. I had a couple that wanted to have talks but I decided to play with the Steel again and it is a decision I'm happy about.
"It is going to be different. Rob has coached me for 10 years and I'm really used to her game plans and structures.
"I've really enjoyed my time under Rob but, at the same time, I know Janine [Southby] and Natalie [Avellino] will bring knew things to the table which we will need to get on board with,to ensure that we are going tobe competitive."
Before Frew reached her decision she contacted Broughton, who will coach the struggling Central Pulse next season, while Southby and Avellino have been appointed co-coaches of the Steel.
"Obviously, Rob has been a massive part of my netball career and had a huge influence on me in terms of the achievements I've made. I know Rob will do a great job at the Pulse and will bring some new and exciting stuff to the team which the franchise will benefit from."
Broughton's departure sparked rumours of a mass player walkout but Frew said she had not sought any assurances from the franchise as to who might be playing alongside her next year.
Different factors influenced people and individuals had to make up their own minds, she said.
Steel chief executive Julie Paterson said she was delighted Frew had opted to stay with the Steel.
"Wendy has always been such an integral member of our team and her decision reflects the loyalty she has for both our franchise and our region," Paterson said in a press release.
