New Zealand’s world champion netballers are celebrating news that their inspirational coach will stay on a little longer, after their World Cup triumph last month.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern hosted the Silver Ferns at Parliament on Monday afternoon – the first time the team has been back together, since their 52-51 upset of Australia in Liverpool.
The occasion was also the first time they had reunited since coach Noeline Taurua – uncontracted past the world tournament – confirmed she would stay on until at least after the Northern Quad series in England next January.
That announcement came last week and retiring veteran Casey Kopua was obviously relieved at Taurua’s extension.
“I think it’s hugely important,” said Kopua. “She’s a mother of five, so she wouldn’t have taken that decision lightly.
“For her to be part of [the Silver Ferns programme] and keep moving it forward will make a big difference to the girls.”
Taurua, 51, replaced Janine Southby as head coach last year, after a disastrous Commonwealth Games campaign that saw them out of the medals for the first time, finish fourth.
She immediately summoned Kopua and Laura Langman back from exile to lead the side, while implementing a tough training regime to improve player fitness.
Kopua, who has spent holiday time with her family since the World Cup, was adamant she would not reconsider her decision to retire.
Taurua is currently coaching the Sunshine Coast Lightning towards their third straight Australian Super Netball title.
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