Kiwi netball coach Noeline Taurua says her time in Australia has not only strengthened her skill-set, but has taught her how to beat the world number ones.
New Zealand netball coach Noeline Taurua Photo: PHOTOSPORT www.photosport.co.nz
Noeline Taurua has done what no other New Zealand netball coach has been able to do.
She assisted Waimarama Taumaunu to the Silver Ferns only Constellation Cup win, coached both an Australian and New Zealand franchise to domestic glory but most importantly gained the respect of Australian Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander and has regular input into the inner workings of the Diamonds.
After being snubbed for the Silver Ferns top coaching role, Taurua was appointed to the Sunshine Coast Lightning recruiting some of the biggest names in world netball. Her successful tenure under the Australian structure has not only improved her as a coach but has also taught her that the Silver Ferns biggest rival is not unbeatable.
"Because I sort of have a clearer understanding of how players play and their style and how they train there's definitely gaps or areas of weakness that they can be exposed in." says Taurua.
"That's what the coaching is about, having plan A and plan B up your sleeve making sure you can play your own game - we only look at 20 per cent of our opposition and 80 percent is about ourselves."
Taurua is contracted to the Lightning for one more season and admits she sees her future back in New Zealand.
While her days of chasing the Silver Ferns coaching role may be over, she has a new goal in mind to return home and make her mark on the sport she loves.
"Whether I'm looking at board level or CEO level in netball I'm not to sure I'll take it one year at a time."
"I'm very open to what happens in 2019 and beyond, I've gained massive experience over here."
The regular Australian Super Netball league season ends in August 2018.
- RNZ
