Netball NZ Calls for Respect Amid Coach Taurua’s Standoff

Netball New Zealand’s chief executive, Jennie Wyllie, has appealed to fans to show respect as negotiations continue regarding the future of Dame Noeline Taurua, the head coach of the Silver Ferns. The ongoing standoff has left the popular coach sidelined for the remainder of the year, following a tumultuous period that many in the netball community view as unthinkable.

The situation escalated when Taurua was unexpectedly stood down just 11 days before the Taini Jamison series against South Africa last month. A recent two-day meeting between Netball NZ and Taurua failed to resolve the issues at hand. On Saturday, the national governing body issued a statement confirming that, despite their best efforts, a resolution regarding the Silver Ferns’ “high performance programme and environment” had not been achieved.

Wyllie expressed disappointment over the inability to reinstate Taurua, emphasizing the need for all parties involved to maintain respect throughout the process. “There is no one, whether that be athletes, whether that be Dame Noeline, Netball New Zealand, or our netball public, that deserves any vitriol,” she stated. “Everyone is a human at the end of the day.”

The urgency of the situation is compounded by an upcoming series against Australia, scheduled to begin on October 17, 2023. Wyllie noted the necessity to appoint a coach promptly, stating, “We don’t want this process to drag on.” Silver Ferns legends Tracey Fear and Wai Taumaunu will continue to provide interim support in the meantime.

The roots of this conflict can be traced back to a training camp in January, when two players raised concerns with the players’ association on behalf of a larger group regarding the team’s environment. They described it as “psychologically unsafe,” indicating that some players felt apprehensive about voicing concerns directly to Taurua. Tensions have reportedly lingered since the 2023 World Cup, where the Silver Ferns finished in fourth place.

In the wake of the World Cup, Taurua was reappointed to her position following a contested selection process. Some players have since chosen not to make themselves available for selection, raising alarms about the depth of talent within New Zealand netball. Wyllie declined to comment on whether players had refused to play under Taurua, citing confidentiality.

In July, Bryan Stronach, a former high-performance boss in New Zealand cricket, was tasked with investigating the players’ concerns and suggesting cultural improvements. Sources familiar with his report indicated it highlighted “significant issues” within the Silver Ferns’ environment. Taurua and her assistant coaches, Deb Fuller and Briony Akle, were reportedly angered by the findings and have sought legal counsel to contest both the report and the investigative process.

The investigation’s methodology has also come under scrutiny. It seems that only the players who raised complaints were interviewed, while Taurua and her assistants were not, prompting questions regarding fairness in the review process. According to insiders, the initial intent was to facilitate open dialogue about improving the team’s environment, but the final report’s title, “Silver Ferns environment review,” led to confusion about its nature.

Wyllie acknowledged the backlash directed at current players for their perceived reluctance to openly support Taurua. She emphasized the importance of protecting all individuals involved from public criticism. “It’s a really challenging time for them all to navigate,” she said, assuring that internal discussions regarding the matter would remain confidential.

Legal expert Andrew Scott-Howman, who has extensive experience in workplace investigations, noted that Netball NZ’s approach is constrained by employment regulations. He pointed out that confidentiality is crucial to preserving the integrity of the process, asserting that public speculation can deter individuals from coming forward with concerns. “You don’t have a right to know,” he stated regarding public interest in the situation.

Wyllie reiterated the organization’s commitment to resolving the concerns raised by players while maintaining respect for all parties involved. “Our responsibility is to Dame Noeline and the players,” she said, emphasizing that the aim is to ensure a constructive environment moving forward.

As the Silver Ferns prepare for their upcoming challenges, the outcome of these negotiations remains pivotal to the future of New Zealand netball.