MESSAGE FROM NETBALL NEW ZEALAND CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Greetings everyone,

  The majority of the Netball New Zealand team is now back, and there is a renewed sense of energy and optimism for 2016 following a good break. With both the Silver Ferns Squad and National Development Squad currently in camp, preparation work underway for the National Development Forum and NNZ Council meeting, and a lot more, we are looking forward to the year ahead.

 I had the opportunity, along with Kereyn Smith, to provide a briefing to the Minister of Women’s Affairs, the Hon Louise Upston, on a range of matters relating to women’s sport in New Zealand.  This leveraged work that Kereyn has been undertaking for the NZOC, and research and analysis we have done inhouse. The topics included:

•             Participation rates, and yes female participation is lower across the total sport and recreation sector

•             Netball’s participation rates, capability, challenges and opportunity

•             Performance of NZ women on the international sporting stage – and yes we are punching above our weight

•             Female representation in leadership and governance roles in sport – whilst this has been improving, we still need to make progress

•             Representation of sports women in NZ media – the volume, tone of voice, and relative presentation – and yes we still have some way to go; and

•             Funding and resourcing of women in sport

 This is part of an ongoing conversation and advocacy programme that will become a priority for NNZ this year.

 NNZ Staffing Changes

 It is with regret that I announced this week the resignation of two highly valued members of Netball New Zealand’s Community Netball team.

 Dianne McTigue has advised that after more than nine years’ service, she will be leaving her role as National Technical Officials Manager at the end of March. Dianne will stay with us on a part time contract basis to assist us with the transfer of key knowledge to new staff, and remains our nominee for the Regional Officials Co-ordinator for the INF, which is a volunteer position.

 Laura Menzies has advised us that she will not be returning to her role as Head of Community Netball following parental leave. Laura is thoroughly enjoying her role as a new parent, and looks forward to joining Sport New Zealand in a strategic development role later in the year.

 To assist us with the transition with these changes, I am therefore very grateful that Ruth Stanley will continue in the role of acting Head of Community Netball until the end of March.  These changes provide an opportune time to look at Netball New Zealand’s ongoing requirements with regard to community Netball resourcing, and we will do this in the coming weeks.  Netball New Zealand is very grateful to Waikato Bay of Plenty Zone for allowing the extension of Ruth’s time with Netball New Zealand.

 I hope you all have a relaxing weekend.

Kind regards,

Hilary

Hilary Poole

Chief Executive

Netball New Zealand

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NZ Royal Honours - nominations are open

A reminder that nominations for New Zealand Royal Honours are open. Anyone can nominate a person they think is worthy of a New Zealand Royal Honour and anyone can be nominated.

“Our honours system is a way for New Zealand to say thanks and well done to those who have served and those who have achieved.” (Report of the Prime Minister's Honours Advisory Committee, September 1995).

Download the nomination form and guidelines

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Sportsground Workshops

 Registrations are now open for all Sportsground training workshops nationwide. We encourage all Centres, Clubs and Schools currently with Sportsground, or considering moving to the system, to attend their local session. All workshops are held in the evenings and are FREE to attend - register your attendance.

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NZ Umpires first to use new rules on international stage

 Liz Boon and Jono Bredin are currently in the UK umpiring the International Test Series between England and Australia. This is the first Test Series to be played under the new INF Rules. We wish them both every success for the remaining two matches.

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NNZ Heritage Project - can you help?

 The NNZ Heritage Project team needs your help! Tasked with researching the history of the Silver Ferns, we are putting the call out for anyone who has any old photos, slides, newspaper clippings or memorabilia. If you can help, please contact heritage@netballnz.co.nz with details and we’ll be in touch!

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Tania Karauria appointed as National Training Manager

 Netball New Zealand is delighted to announce the appointment of Tania Karauria as the National Training Manager.  Tania will lead the training and support of the Netball Development Officer network to enhance the standard of nationwide coach development and programme delivery.

Contact her at Taniak@netballnz.co.nz.

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Reminder: Umpire Theory exams

 

Dates for this year’s exams are now available. Please check dates and closing dates carefully - see full details.

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Media Update
Latu ready for 2016
Pathway to Podium coaches in action