Waimarama Taumaunu has revealed that she’s going to quit the role of Silver Ferns netball head coach after next month’s series against Australia following her slip at this year’s World Cup in Sydney.
New Zealand lost in finals to Australia at the 2014 Commonwealth Games before going on to further slip at the last moment against Australia in an adrenaline-charged 58-55 show down at the Allphones Arena.
Taumaunu, the former World Cup-winning defender in 1987 who took over from Ruth Aitken as coach in October 2011, after three years as assistant now says it’s time to step away.
“I am looking forward to leading the team for the final four tests of the year, but after taking some time over the past few weeks, I have decided not to apply for the role going forward,” she said.
“I am, and will always remain passionate about the Silver Ferns, but I believe it is the right time for me to finish up.
“I have enjoyed every moment as head coach and would like to acknowledge the massive support and incredible team who I have worked with over the last four years.”
Taumaunu earned memorable victories against several countries including Uganda in this year’s Netball World Cup, her side mauling the She Cranes 76-33.76-33.
Playing at their first Indoor Netball World Cup but second overall, Uganda She Cranes recorded their best ever finish having ranked eighth of the sixteen teams that took part while New Zealand finished runners up.
