Netball NZ unveil coaching development programme

Noeline Taurua is a high performance coaches who has been identified to receive support within the Netball NZ High Performance Coach Programme. Photo / Christine Cornege

Netball New Zealand has unveiled a new high performance coach development programme as part of the organisation's efforts to re-build their elite coaching pool.

Just as player depth is a major issue facing the sport, the lack of coaching depth in this country has emerged as another big concern with three of the most recent high profile coaching appointments going to Australians.

Vicki Wilson won the Silver Ferns assistant coach role in 2012, former NSW Swifts coach Julie Fitzgerald took over at the helm of the Magic franchise this year, while Sue Hawkins will lead the Tactix next season.

With concern growing over where the next Silver Ferns coach will come from, today's announcement represents a long overdue investment into coaching development.

The programme was devised following an assessment of coaches in the New Zealand netball system by High Performance Sport New Zealand.

Netball NZ chief executive Hilary Poole said the programme is a key strategy is to ensure elite coaches are getting the ongoing support and development needed to ensure sustainability and longevity in the sport.

"Providing our coaches with a sustained development programme and support to cater specifically to their needs is vital if we want our teams to continue winning international tournaments and events," she said.

Netball NZ will provide more support to New Zealand coaches within the high performance coaching framework that covers both theory and practical application of coaching in the elite environment. They will each have their own personal development plans and mentoring, assistance with leadership development and formulation of winning strategies. The coaches will also gain the opportunity for cross sport experience whilst having access to the Silver Ferns and ANZ Championship environments.

The following high performance coaches have been identified to receive support within the High Performance Coach Programme:
Mary-Jane Araroa, Charissa Barham, Marianne Delaney, Margaret Forsyth, Debbie Fuller, Nic Kelly, Yvette McCausland-Durie, Julie Seymour, Paula Smith, Janine Southby, Noeline Taurua, Kiri Wills and Helene Wilson.