Netball: Tactix may bend rules for imports

Jo Harten of England is a Tactix import. Photo / Getty Images

The Canterbury Tactix look set to have a second import in the 2012 ANZ Championship - despite there being no provision in the rules to allow such a move.

The exception is likely to be made in recognition of the extraordinary circumstances faced by the Christchurch-based team over the last few months, after the devastating earthquake of February 22.

The damage to the city - and subsequent heavy aftershocks - has made it difficult for the organisation to attract New Zealand players; two players were believed to have all but agreed terms before having a last-minute change of heart following another aftershock.

League organisers TTNL, Netball New Zealand and the New Zealand Netball Players Association (NZNPA) are believed to have all rubberstamped the proposal in principle- which will require a variation to the team participation agreement - and the Tactix seem likely to take up the option if it is granted to them.

"We are looking at all the implications of this decision," says Netball NZ CEO Ralene Castle, "including the precedent that will be set - but there are a million reasons to make an exception. The reality is that it has been very difficult for them to attract players."

"There is a high likelihood that we will contract a second import player," says Tactix CEO Pete Smith, who confirmed to the Herald on Sunday that they are in discussions with three overseas players for one to play alongside current import Jo Harten of England.

Smith admits recruitment has been a struggle, and they presently only have three players signed up - Harten, Anna Thompson and Bessie Manu - and Silver Fern squad member Charlotte Kight recently announced her intention to leave. While it is believed they have some verbal agreements in place, Smith admits it has been a tough few months.

"There have been some big challenges," says Smith. "I'm not playing the earthquake card but when people have a choice between cities like Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton and Christchurch in its current state it is harder to be compelling."

Smith emphasises that a second overseas player will probably be a last, but necessary, resort.

"We will do everything we can to put together a competitive roster," says Smith, "and it is only when we have exhausted every opportunity that we will look offshore."

Smith says part of the problem is down to perception of New Zealanders who live outside Christchurch, pointing out that 80 per cent of the city - and most of the area where the players will train and live - has not been damaged.

"People seem to think the place is wrecked and nothing works...which is not quite true," says Smith. "We have lost our CBD at the moment and do have some challenges around facilities but the city is functioning."

Smith also points out that a purpose-built netball training centre has been earmarked for construction and is due to be completed around December, provided they can find a suitable venue.

While most people can empathise with the extraordinary circumstances the Tactix face, such a decision would raise some eyebrows in the netball community. Aside from the situation in Christchurch, their performance as wooden spooners over the past two seasons must have also lessened the appeal for potential players.

"If I was Pete Smith I would be doing what he is to make sure my team would perform on the court," says Mystics CEO Mark Cameron. "But there has got to be clear evidence that a second import would not disadvantage an up and coming New Zealand player. We have to be protective of that but if there is clearly a gap I would endorse a second import."

NZNPA manager Tim Lythe emphasises that this should not be seen as a precedent, rather a solution to a unique problem: "There is an understanding of the need and there are exceptional circumstances here", says Lythe, "though the process will need to be followed through TTNL, Netball NZ and ourselves."

Each franchise needs to name 10 players by the start of next month.