An inspiring presence in Waikato colours over several seasons earned promotion to the Silver Ferns for the talented midcourter in 1997. She went on to make her debut the same year against England.

A permanent fixture over the next six years, the fleet-footed Clarkson continued to mature her game, adding variety on attack and flair from the edge of the circle.

Able to cover both centre and wing attack with equal proficiency, she became a strong on-court leader as her career progressed.

Small in stature, she was a textbook attacker, fast and powerful with a strong and creative skill set. A diligent trainer, Clarkson had explosive speed off the mark, an eye for the gap and ability to feed the right ball at the right time.

A fine natural sportswoman, she represented the Silver Ferns at the 2002 Commonwealth Games and also represented New Zealand at touch.