Higher Netball honours came late for decorated Waikato athlete Sheryl Burns who had already represented New Zealand at basketball and surf-lifesaving.

A feisty, agile, mobile and extremely fit wing defence, Burns became a triple New Zealand representative when selected for the Silver Ferns in 1992 against England in London.

A multi-talented athlete, she who could also turn her hand to centre, was part of a three-pronged Silver Ferns international programme in 1992 which included a home Test Series and two overseas tours.

Burns was also involved in the Silver Ferns 1993 World Games campaign in The Hague before years of wear and tear on her body took its toll.