It was awesome to have 44 attendees, plus extra helpers from Netball Whakatane Centre, as well as speakers and WBOP Zone personnel, gather together at East Bay REAP on Saturday 18 October for our annual Netball WBOP Zone Forum.

Now a regular feature, the day began with our 'Centres Share' session. Lisa Loomans from Te Aroha Netball Centre spoke about their new Junior Umpire Programme, Justin Ross from Netball Whakatane Centre shared their change in focus and format for their Rep Mana Day, and Lani Daniels and Alexis Whetu from Tokoroa Netball Centre reflected on their new Coach Development contractor role. Each speaker was honest and engaging, and fielded many questions from the floor as attendees drew ideas and lessons from each presenter.

After a morning tea break, back-to-back breakout sessions were offered. Attendees could choose two of the following four workshops to attend: Running a great AGM presented by Nicky Compton from Tauranga Netball Centre, Dealing with Challenging Situations presented by Kyle McClean from The Coaching Gig, Marketing and Social Media presented by netball legends Erena Mikaere and Sam Winders, and Strategic Planning presented by WBO Zone Relationship Manager Leigh Ashton. Feedback from these sessions was fantastic, and all participants were sent copies of the slides, video clips, and resource materials from all workshops after the Forum too.

Lunch was next, with time for attendees to chat and catch up with one another after a busy season. The WBOP Zone staff Zone also made the most of the day with lots of planning forms, self-reflection tasks, and feedback questionnaires that could be completed on the day.

The last formal event of the day was our WBOP Zone SGM to vote in our new constitution, which passed unanimously. This included a transition plan for WBOP Zone to come out from NNZ administration, where in early 2026 the NNZ Board will lead the process for WBOP Zone Board to comprise of two Elected Board Members, two Appointed Board Members, and one Board Member appointed by NNZ. This will take effect no later than fourteen (14) days after WBOP Zone’s next Annual General Meeting, which is planned for Sunday 29 March 2026.

The day was full of laughter, connections, and learning together. This concluded with prize draws (for returning their completed forms!) and spot prizes including junior netball kits, Positive Vibes only gift packs, and a life-size 'Measure up to Magic' signboard donated by AVIS Magic. As people made their way out of the venue, every Centre who attended also collected their new GoodSports footpath sign to take home to their Centre.

A huge thank you to the team from Netball Whakatane Centre for hosting us - what a fantastic day!

Article by: Leigh Ashton, WBOP Zone Relationship Manager
Article added: November 2025