Netball NZ Calls for Respect Amid Dame Taurua’s Standoff

Netball New Zealand (NNZ) has called on fans to exercise respect as it navigates a complex standoff involving the beloved Silver Ferns coach, Dame Noeline Taurua. The national body confirmed that Taurua will not return for the remainder of the year, a decision that has left many supporters reeling. This development follows her abrupt suspension just 11 days before the Taini Jamison series against South Africa last month.

Negotiations between NNZ and Taurua had intensified recently, but a two-day meeting earlier this week failed to yield a resolution. In a statement released on Saturday, NNZ expressed disappointment, stating that despite their genuine efforts, a solution regarding the Silver Ferns’ “high performance programme and environment” had not been achieved.

“Over the past few weeks, NNZ has pursued every pathway with Dame Noeline to bring her back into the Silver Ferns environment at this time,” the statement read. “NNZ is disappointed that this has not been possible.” The organization opted not to disclose specific reasons for Taurua’s suspension, citing legal and privacy issues, which has led to rampant speculation among fans and former players.

The impasse has ignited a wave of criticism directed at both the players and NNZ on social media. Wyllie urged all parties involved to refrain from hostility, emphasizing the importance of respect. “There is no-one, whether that be athletes, whether that be Dame Noeline, Netball New Zealand, or our netball public that deserves any vitriol,” Wyllie stated. “Everyone is a human at the end of the day.”

Concerns Over Team Dynamics

Taurua’s suspension follows allegations from players regarding a “psychologically unsafe” environment within the team. After a January training camp in Sydney, two players approached the players’ association, claiming that some team members felt intimidated about raising issues directly with the coach. This discontent reportedly stems from the 2023 World Cup, where the Silver Ferns finished in fourth place.

Following the World Cup, Taurua was reappointed as head coach through a contentious selection process. The ongoing situation has led to some Silver Ferns opting out of selection, raising concerns for NNZ regarding the depth of talent available for future competitions.

In July, NNZ enlisted former NZ Cricket high-performance director Bryan Stronach to investigate the players’ concerns. Reports suggest that Stronach identified “significant issues” within the Silver Ferns environment. However, the findings led to further complications, as Taurua and her assistants were reportedly unhappy with the review process and have sought legal counsel.

Future of the Silver Ferns

The situation has reached a critical juncture, with a series against Australia set to begin on October 17, 2023. Wyllie acknowledged the urgency to secure a coach soon but reiterated the commitment to resolving the current issues.

“We don’t want this process to drag on, but we do have the players about to assemble for camp for the Constellation Cup,” Wyllie noted. During this time, Silver Ferns legends Tracey Fear and Wai Taumaunu will continue to provide interim support.

The public backlash against the players has created division within the team. Following a recent match against South Africa, star shooter Grace Nweke publicly called for Taurua’s reinstatement, but Wyllie denied any internal communication advising players not to speak out on the matter. “It’s a really challenging time for them all to navigate,” she said, emphasizing the necessity of unity within the team.

Wellington employment lawyer Andrew Scott-Howman highlighted the challenges NNZ faces in addressing player concerns while maintaining confidentiality. “If it’s going to be a public football and people are going to have an opinion about you, you’re less likely to want to come forward,” he stated.

As the situation unfolds, NNZ remains focused on reconciling the issues at hand, with Wyllie asserting that the organization is committed to ensuring a conducive environment for both players and the coaching staff. “Our responsibility is to Dame Noeline and the players, and we are focused on resolving these concerns,” she concluded.