On Sunday, 13th April, the Christchurch Netball Centre hosted the very first Crafting Your Coaching workshop in Mainland — an exciting new initiative designed to uplift and support rangatahi in their coaching journeys. 

Developed by Netball New Zealand, this resource is specifically tailored for rangatahi who coach rangatahi, as well as coaches working with this age group. The workshop provided a practical and fun session that delved into how to use the resource effectively, ensuring that coaches are equipped with relevant tools, concepts, and knowledge to enhance the netball experience for young players. 

At the heart of the workshop was a focus on the fundamentals — not just of the game itself, but of great coaching pedagogy. Participants explored ways to build player skills, create engaging learning environments, and foster positive connections both on and off the court. 

One of the standout messages from the session was the powerful three-legged stool analogy, symbolising the need for players, coaches, and umpires to develop together. This holistic approach reflects the kaupapa of “we are all in this together” — a message that resonated with those in attendance. 

This is just the beginning of something new and exciting! If you’re interested in attending a Crafting Your Coaching workshop, get in touch with your local Centre. They’ll work with Kelly at Mainland Netball to help make it happen.  Nelson Netball Centre will be hosting the next delivery on Sunday, 11th May. 

Let’s continue to grow, support, and celebrate our coaching community — together. 

Thank You, Nelson Netball Centre! 

A huge thank you to Nelson Netball Centre for welcoming Nick (from NetballSmart) and Kelly to the Geraldine Hodgson Festival Day at the beginning of April! 

It was an incredible opportunity to connect with Mainland Centres attending the event, and the festival provided the perfect setting to deliver the Ultimate Umpire Experience for umpires and umpire coaches. Across the weekend, there was an inspiring atmosphere of learning, development, and connection — a real celebration of everything that makes our netball community special. 

We absolutely love getting out into Centres and supporting the amazing development ideas and initiatives happening on the ground. Working alongside dedicated Centre staff, volunteers, coaches, umpires, and players reminds us just how vibrant and passionate our netball whānau is. 

A massive thank you to Nelson Netball and the surrounding Centres for being such awesome hosts and for providing valuable development opportunities for everyone involved in the game. Your manaakitanga and commitment to the growth of our sport does not go unnoticed. 

We’re already looking forward to the next trip — until then, keep up the amazing mahi! 

Article added: Saturday 26 April 2025