Kia ora Netball Whanau,

In this edition we shine a light on the energy and dedication that keep our coaching community thriving. You will find highlights from our UNISS preparation and support, a look into our Coaches in the Making programme, and a special feature from one of our netball dads who’s carving his own path on the sideline. Plenty of inspiration, reflection, and a few reminders of why we love this game.

UNISS Preparation and Support

This year we set out to provide meaningful support for coaches heading into their week-long UNISS tournament. Every coach was offered one-on-one guidance, phone support, and the chance to attend any of five NNZ Community Coach 1 workshops hosted in Thames and Te Awamutu Netball Centres.

We were fortunate to have Magic Assistant Coach Rebecca Gabel and Magic defender Oceane Maihi join us, sharing their knowledge and experiences, alongside Sam Winders promoting NetballSmart and Smart Health for both players and coaches. Coach connection opportunities also featured at our WBOP Secondary School Tournament in Tauranga.

A special thank you to the UNISS Committee for providing every coach with a complimentary NNZ Coaches Diary. This gesture created great opportunities for informal check-ins and conversations—something we would love to continue and expand in 2026.

Congratulations to Te Ahuru and Ngarori (Trident High School) and Carol (Rotorua Girls High School) and their teams for qualifying for the NZ Secondary Schools Championships in Wellington, where Trident placed 4th and Rotorua Girls placed 8th. Ka mau te wehi!

Coaches in the Making

It has been fantastic to see so many coaches stepping forward to learn and grow through our Magic in the Making sessions in Whakatāne and Hamilton. Following these, our Advanced Camp in Tokoroa brought together 3 Head Coaches, 3 Assistant Coaches, and several support and observing coaches for a full day of hands-on experience.

Coaches were assigned to teams, leading Team Building and Strategy sessions, guiding players through Fast5 games, and practising the skill of providing verbal and written player feedback.

This programme offers something for every coach—whether you’re keen to observe and learn up close or dive in and coach in a dynamic, supportive environment. A huge thank you to everyone who took part. It is inspiring to see such commitment to learning and professionalism. We are proud to walk alongside coaches on their coaching journey.

Dads Who Coach – Why It Matters

Coaching isn’t just about drills and game plans – it’s about nurturing people, potential and helping others grow… and Netball isn’t just for mums! 

We love seeing more dads stepping into coaching roles, bringing their unique experiences, energy, and fresh perspectives to the game.

Coaching is an amazing way to connect with your kids, build relationships with other families, and be part of a supportive community.

This month, we are celebrating “David Brown” an awesome dad from Tauranga Netball Centre who took a leap into coaching netball – even though his background was in rugby. David’s story is a great reminder that you don’t need to know everything about netball to make a huge difference.

A Conversation with 'Dad Coach' David Brown...

What is Your Why for Coaching?

“Why not?” – that was my very first response when asked why I coach.

If you’re like me and love a challenge, I encourage anyone to give coaching a go. When I first started, I didn’t know much about netball, but that didn’t stop me! It all began when I jokingly told my daughter I’d coach her team.
Her eyes lit up, and in that moment, I thought, “Why not give it a go?”

From the sidelines, I’d always been a supporter, but stepping into the coaching space opened a whole new world.

For me, coaching is meant to be fun – not just for the players, but for the coach and everyone involved. It’s an incredible way to:
•    Build stronger bonds with your own child and their friends
•    Connect with other families and the wider community
•    Give back to the sport you love by playing an active role in its future

When everyone does a little something, we create a supportive community where we all look after each other.

How Long Have You Been Coaching?

I have been coaching netball for three years, but before that, I spent 6–7 years coaching Rugby League, Rugby Union, and Kiwi Tag. What I love most is helping kids grow—not just their skills, but also their sportsmanship, resilience, communication, and confidence.

What I Love About Coaching

When I first started coaching netball at intermediate level, I knew I had to bring something different to the table. Coming from a League and Rugby background, I focused on building team chemistry first. I wanted the players to trust and respect each other, and for practices to be fun and exciting.

Once the team culture was strong, we focused on skill development.

Now in my third year, the girls are playing in fast-paced college divisions. I am co-coaching alongside an experienced coach, and I have learned so much from her perspective and approach to the game.

The girls love having hands-on coaches who keep the vibe fun and engaging.
We have:
•    Plenty of laughs and nicknames
•    A bit of sarcasm (in good fun!)
•    Balanced discussions about tactics and gameplay

When sport is fun, kids stay motivated and connected.

Looking Ahead

I plan to keep coaching for as long as I can. It is incredibly rewarding to help young athletes develop a love for the game, stay active, and keep playing—whether socially or competitively.

My goal is to listen to their ideas, grow alongside them, and create an environment where they want to stay involved in netball for years to come

Article by: Kim Hunt, WBOP Zone Coach Lead
Article added: October 2025