Known for her work ethic, tenacity and fitness, Selina had cemented the wing defence position as her own over the past two years, playing an integral role in the Australian defensive unit.
Her commitment to the team was highlighted during the World Championships, when Gilsenan recovered from an ankle injury during a pool match against Scotland to play an important game in the win against the Silver Ferns.
Finishing on a high of a World Championship, the 29-year olds decision to retire from international netball was for family reasons.
“It is the pinnacle of our sport to play in a World Championship, and then to win and retire from my Australian commitments is a perfect ending,” Gilsenan said.
“I would like to start a family in the near future, and consequently I cannot commit to the Australian squad and guarantee I could fulfil my commitments over a full year.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Norma Plummer, Sydney TAB Swifts coach Julie Fitzgerald, the players in the Australian Netball Team and of course my family.”
Australian coach Norma Plummer commends Gilsenan for the dedication and commitment to the Australian Netball Team.
“I was pretty hard on Selina when I first took over as coach and I didn’t select her, but I threw a challenge at her,” Plummer said.
“12 months later she made it and she has been absolutely outstanding. Her ability now to get out there and work a player for four quarters is superb; she just does a magnificent job.
“She is going to be a big loss to the team alongside Laura and Liz but this gives the Australian Team an opportunity to re-build over the next four years and it’s not a challenge we are afraid
of.”
Gilsenan will continue next year with the NSW team in the inaugural year of the ANZ Championship.
